Mahabir Pun Urges Strong Ministry for Research and Innovation

Independent lawmaker Mahabir Pun has suggested establishing a strong ministry dedicated to research and innovation, emphasizing science and technology as key drivers of economic development.

Speaking at the House of Representatives on Wednesday, he said that science and technology must be given top priority to strengthen the economy. He also called for the creation of a dedicated fund for research and innovation.

Pun stated, “To develop the economy, science and technology must be prioritized. A fund should be established for research and innovation, and a strong ministry is necessary. If anyone does not understand what science and innovation are, I am ready to deliver a one-hour lecture in Parliament.”

He also described long-standing issues like nepotism, favoritism, sycophancy, and patronage in Nepal as a “virus,” urging the new government and lawmakers to free themselves from it.

“There has long been a ‘virus’ in Nepal—nepotism, favoritism, sycophancy, and patronage. This virus has persisted since the time of unification and continues even after major political movements. The new government and lawmakers must work to eliminate it. We should not hear of appointments based on personal connections,” he said.