KATHMANDU: Science, Technology, and Innovation Minister Mahabir Pun on Monday said creating opportunities for young people through innovation would help curb the growing trend of youth leaving the country.

Responding to lawmakers during discussions on the Appropriation Bill, 2026 in the National Assembly, Pun said the establishment of a separate ministry and increased funding reflected growing priority for science and technology. He added that 1 percent of the capital budget, equivalent to Rs 4 billion, has been allocated to the ministry, although Rs 3.40 billion remains unallocated because the ministry had no minister when the budget was prepared.

Pun said the ministry is drafting laws and regulations, carrying out organizational reforms, and will soon invite research proposals from young scientists. He added that the National Forensic Science Laboratory Bill is under consideration and funding for the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology will be increased.

The minister also pledged to improve Nepal’s weak patent registration record, noting that only 90 patents have been registered to date. He said the government is working to bring back Nepali scientists living abroad, stressing that investment in science and technology is essential for the country’s long-term prosperity.