Mahabir Pun Secures Preferred Portfolio: Independent Visionary Returns to Lead Science and Innovation.
Tech Pioneer and Innovator Rejoins Cabinet to Champion Practical Science and Youth Entrepreneurship.
KATHMANDU — In a major development for Nepal's scientific community, independent lawmaker and pioneering innovator Mahabir Pun has made a significant return to the federal cabinet. Pun officially took the oath of office and secrecy on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, securing his preferred portfolio as the Minister for Science, Technology, and Innovation.
This marks Pun's second stint as a cabinet minister. He previously served as the Minister for Education, Science, and Technology in the government led by Sushila Karki, which was formed in the wake of the historic Gen-Z protests. Following a recent cabinet reshuffle by Prime Minister Balendra Shah, the ministry was split to create a dedicated entity focused entirely on technology and research—a structural change Pun had long advocated for.
Supporters and tech enthusiasts have widely welcomed the appointment, noting that Pun has finally landed the exact ministry that aligns with his lifelong dedication to national innovation.
A Lifelong Mission for National Innovation
Before entering mainstream politics as an independent candidate, Mahabir Pun was globally recognized for his groundbreaking work with the Nepal Wireless Networking Project, which brought internet connectivity to remote Himalayan villages. He is also the founder of the National Innovation Center (NIC), a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering domestic talent, research, and economic development.
Upon assuming his new office on Tuesday, Pun expressed immense optimism about his vision for the newly structured ministry. He emphasized that his primary focus will be shifting the government's approach from purely theoretical science to highly practical, result-oriented technology that can drive economic growth.
"For years, our country treated science and technology as mere academic subjects," Pun stated after taking office. "With this dedicated ministry, our goal is to directly support innovators, commercialize domestic research, and create an ecosystem where Nepali youth can turn their technological ideas into thriving businesses."
Prioritizing Youth and Local Manufacturing
Ministry insiders report that Pun has already instructed administrative staff to draft a comprehensive policy framework aimed at reducing bureaucratic red tape for startups and independent researchers. He has frequently spoken about the need for state-funded incubation centers and flexible grants to prevent the country's brightest minds from leaving the nation.
By separating Science and Technology from the heavily political education portfolio, Prime Minister Shah's administration hopes to give Pun the operational freedom required to modernize Nepal's digital infrastructure. Financial analysts suggest that if Pun successfully bridges the gap between state resources and private innovation, this ministry could become a crucial engine for job creation and localized manufacturing in the coming years.
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