The National Innovation Digital Network (NIDN), in collaboration with the Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), Robotics Association of Nepal (RAN), and NAXA, successfully hosted InnoTalk #13 on January 7, 2025, at the Confederation of Nepalese Industries (CNI), Trade Tower, Thapathali. The event, themed "National Innovation Index for National Prosperity", served as a platform for fostering innovation and dialogue among national and international innovators.

The program began with registration and a warm welcome led by Emcee Rishav Raj, Manager at RAN. Ms. Punam Sherpa, Business Development Officer at NAXA, presented on the ongoing efforts of NIDN in mapping and promoting innovations in Nepal. Dr. Iswor Bajracharya, Chief of the Faculty of Technology at NAST and Coordinator of NIDN delivered the opening remarks, emphasizing NAST's preparation for a National Innovation Index to support policy formulation and innovation development.

The event featured insightful speeches from distinguished speakers, including Prof. Dr. Sangeeta Singh, former member of the National Planning Commission (NPC), and Mr. Indu Bikram Joshi, former Joint Secretary of the Government of Nepal.

Er. Naresh Khatri, Deputy Head of the Department of Computer and Electronics Engineering at Khwopa College of Engineering, represented academia, highlighting its pivotal role in driving innovation and nurturing creative minds for national progress.

Special guest Prof. Dr. Shiva Raj Adhikari, Vice Chairman of NPC, provided valuable perspectives on integrating innovation into national planning. The program concluded with closing remarks by Dr. Ghanashyam Ojha, Director General of CNI, who appreciated the collaborative efforts to promote innovation in Nepal.