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Nepal-India Chamber of Commerce & Industry (NICCI) Meets with New Energy Minister Hon’ble Mr. Dipak Khadka

The Nepal-India Chamber of Commerce & and Industry (NICCI) held a meeting with the newly appointed Energy Minister, Hon’ble Mr. Dipak Khadka, on 25th July 2024 at the Ministry of Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation at Singhadurbar, Kathmandu.

The NICCI delegation was led by President Mrs. Shreejana Rana and included Vice President Mr. Sunil KC, Treasurer Mr. Kunal Kayal, Executive Member Mr. Arun KC, Convener of the Energy Committee Mr. Batu Lamichhane, Deputy Director Mr. Marshal Rathour, and Finance Head Mr. Nimesh Nepal.

President Mrs. Shreejana Rana congratulated Hon’ble Energy Minister Mr. Dipak Khadka on his appointment, noting his extensive practical knowledge from grassroots to policy levels. She expressed optimism that under his leadership, the ministry would address critical issues related to energy development, transmission lines and power trade with India and Bangladesh.

The meeting focused on attracting foreign investments, project development, and capacity enhancement in the energy sector, which is crucial for reducing the country’s trade deficit through energy exports to India and other countries via Indian transmission lines.

Mr. Batu Lamichhane, Convener of the Energy Committee, requested Minister Khadka to open the power trade sector to private entities, enabling competitive energy exports to India and breaking the current monopoly, a major concern for Nepalese private sectors.

Vice President Mr. Sunil KC highlighted several key issues in the energy sector:

Ease of Import of Explosives: Mr. KC emphasized the need for a joint mechanism involving the private sector, Nepal Army, and government representatives to facilitate the timely import of explosives, crucial for project completion.

Transmission Line Development: Collaboration with Indian and Bangladeshi governments to develop transmission lines.

Joint Roadshows: Organizing roadshows in India and Bangladesh to attract investments for project development and execute a trilateral energy trade agreement among the three countries.

Energy Minister Mr. Dipak Khadka thanked NICCI members for their valuable insights and assured that the government is positive about such initiatives. Hon’ble Energy Minister Khadka further highlighted that Prime Minister Oli has also instructed all cabinet Members a collaborative approach with the private sector to develop policies that support achieving Nepal’s development goals by 2030.