India and Nepal sign MoU to strengthen cooperation in forests, wildlife

The Union Environment Ministry on Wednesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Forests and Environment, Government of Nepal. The aim was to promote bilateral cooperation in the areas of forests, wildlife, environment, biodiversity conservation and climate change, including restoration of wildlife corridors and interlinking areas, and exchange of knowledge, technical expertise and best practices.

India and Nepal have established extensive networks of protected areas in their respective territories. Both countries are also parties to several multilateral environmental agreements and conventions. In view of the shared ecosystems and transboundary wildlife habitats, a need was felt to further strengthen coordination and cooperation between the two governments in the fields of forests, wildlife, environment, biodiversity conservation and climate change.

The MoU envisages cooperation in formulation of biodiversity conservation strategies at the landscape level with emphasis on key species such as elephant, Gangetic dolphin, rhinoceros, snow leopard, tiger and vultures. It also provides for strengthened forest and protected area management; restoration of corridors and other interlinking areas towards creation of transboundary conservation landscapes; addressing biodiversity conservation threats; combating forest and wildlife crime; strengthening the capacity of frontline staff of enforcement agencies; and promoting smart green infrastructure in biodiversity hotspots.

The signing of the MoU is expected to further deepen India-Nepal cooperation in conservation of wildlife and biodiversity, and contribute to protection of shared ecosystems and sustainable management of natural resources in the region.

The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and Madhav Prasad Chaulagain, Cabinet Minister for Forests and Environment, Government of Nepal.