New Delhi: India and Nepal have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen bilateral collaboration in environmental conservation, forest management, wildlife protection, biodiversity, and climate change. The agreement was signed in New Delhi by Bhupendra Yadav, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and Madhav Prasad Chaulagain, Nepal’s Cabinet Minister for Forests and Environment.
The MoU is aimed at fostering coordinated action for the protection and sustainable management of shared ecosystems and transboundary wildlife habitats between the two nations.
Focus on Biodiversity and Wildlife Protection
The agreement emphasizes the development of biodiversity conservation strategies at the landscape level, with special focus on key species including:
- Elephants
- Gangetic dolphins
- Rhinoceroses
- Snow leopards
- Tigers
- Vultures
Both countries will collaborate to restore wildlife corridors, interlink conservation areas, and enhance the management of protected zones to create transboundary conservation landscapes.
Enhancing Forest Management and Capacity Building
The MoU outlines measures to:
- Strengthen forest and protected area management
- Restore interlinked ecosystems and wildlife corridors
- Address threats to biodiversity and combat forest and wildlife crime
- Promote capacity building for frontline enforcement staff
- Implement sustainable and smart green infrastructure in biodiversity hotspots
By combining knowledge and technical expertise, India and Nepal aim to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of conservation efforts in both countries.
Knowledge Exchange and Technical Cooperation
Under the MoU, India and Nepal will promote the exchange of knowledge, best practices, and technical expertise in environmental conservation and climate change mitigation. This includes sharing approaches to sustainable forest management, wildlife monitoring, and climate-resilient infrastructure development in ecologically sensitive areas.
Expected Outcomes and Regional Impact
The agreement is expected to:
- Protect shared ecosystems and transboundary wildlife habitats
- Promote the sustainable management of natural resources
- Support long-term ecological balance in the region
- Strengthen regional cooperation on climate action and environmental sustainability
This MoU marks a significant milestone in India–Nepal environmental collaboration, reinforcing the commitment of both nations to preserve biodiversity and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
