Opinion | Nepal’s drone sector is already flying—it can fly even higher
Summary
Nepal’s drone sector is expanding through disaster response, mapping, agriculture and infrastructure work, but the country still lacks a strong regulatory and licensing framework. The article argues that practical rules, lower barriers to local manufacturing and a coordinated national strategy could help the industry grow faster.
Key Points
- Commercial drones are already being used in Nepal for flood response, mapping, agriculture, wildlife management and infrastructure inspection.
- The biggest obstacle to growth is the lack of an effective institutional framework, including operational licensing, certification and coordinated policy.
- The article calls for risk-based regulation, temporary flight restrictions during disasters and a pathway for local drone manufacturing.
- Nepal could turn its talent and terrain into a competitive advantage if it builds the right national framework now.
