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KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal has said the government will motivate the youths and scientists to carry out intensive research in science and technology.
Addressing a programme organised on the occasion of the 41st anniversary of Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) in Khumaltar, Lalitpur, on Wednesday, he shared that the government has set up a special fund for the development of science and technology. He said this fund will support to promote research and innovation.
"The government has included in its annual programme for the current fiscal year the plan to set up a fund of Rs 1 billion for the development of science and technology," said PM Dahal, also the NAST Chancellor, adding that the talented youths will get the opportunity to conduct research remaining within the country from this fund.
The PM stated that he has the chance to closely observe the contribution made by scientists affiliated with NAST and the capacity development of this sector.
"The government has not been able to provide resources as per the expectations as it has limitations. Being a science student, I am aware of the factors why we have not been able to leap in the development of science and technology," he said.
PM Dahal urged NAST to prepare the outline of the strategic plan by holding intensive discussions on the strategy to be adopted in the upcoming 16th five-year Plan regarding science and technology development.
"Intensive discussions should be held and thinking done as to what programmes need to be incorporated in the 16th Plan to establish this sector. It will be appropriate to formulate the plan in this way," PM Dahal said and urged for preparing the outline of the strategic plan, internalising the country's needs and priorities, and continually coming in contact with the government.
On the occasion, PM and NAST Chancellor Dahal inaugurated the NAST Technology Block and the biomedical research laboratory.
NAST scientists and technologists were also awarded.
