Minister Deepak Khadka Hails India Visit as a Success for Nepal’s Energy Development

Minister for Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation Deepak Khadka declared his recent visit to India a significant success for the advancement of Nepal’s energy sector. Returning to Kathmandu this evening after attending the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Conference in New Delhi, Minister Khadka addressed a press conference at Tribhuvan International Airport, sharing details of constructive discussions and agreements with Indian counterparts on major energy projects.

Minister Khadka highlighted progress on key initiatives, including positive dialogue aimed at accelerating the Pancheshwar and Arun mega hydropower projects. “There is an agreement for coordinated efforts between Nepal and India to promptly advance these projects,” he stated, noting India’s heightened interest in Nepal’s energy sector.

During the ISA conference, the alliance pledged support to boost Nepal’s solar energy sector, aligning with Nepal’s goal of generating 28,500 megawatts of electricity by 2035. Minister Khadka engaged in separate meetings with Indian dignitaries including Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil, ISA President and Minister of New and Renewable Energy Prahlad Venkatesh Joshi, and Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar.

The Minister also held talks with key Indian business leaders, exploring collaborative efforts to attract investments in Nepal’s hydropower sector. “Indian companies are keen to participate in Nepal’s energy development, provided a conducive investment environment is fostered,” he shared, emphasizing the government’s commitment to creating favorable conditions for such partnerships.

Khadka also announced that India’s energy minister plans to visit Nepal soon, a gesture he views as strengthening bilateral cooperation in energy and infrastructure development between the two nations.