Nepal establishes first Stem Cell Research Center in Kathmandu, Paving way for advanced healthcare

KATHMANDU: In a historic milestone for the Nepal health sector, the country’s first Stem Cell Research Center (NSCRC) has been established in Kathmandu, marking a breakthrough in medical innovation and biotechnology in South Asia. Experts say this development could transform Nepal into a regional hub for stem cell research and regenerative medicine, boosting advanced healthcare services and reducing dependency on foreign hospitals.

The research center has been founded under the leadership of Ujjwal Bhandari, Dr. Raghuram Bhandari, and Amod Sharma, and is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratory facilities. According to the founders, stem cells produced at the facility will be supplied to hospitals and medical practitioners across Nepal to aid in specialized treatments.

Major Step for Cancer and Blood Disorder Treatment

The NSCRC has set its research focus on cancer treatment, hematological disorders, and autoimmune diseases, areas where stem cell therapy has shown remarkable global success. Stem cell research is considered one of the most promising fields of modern medicine, capable of repairing damaged tissues, regenerating organs, and accelerating the development of new drugs and therapies.

“This is a landmark achievement for Nepal’s medical science. Stem cell therapy offers hope to patients suffering from life-threatening illnesses, and the establishment of this center places Nepal on the global map of advanced healthcare research,” said a senior health expert.

Nepal’s Legal and Regulatory Challenges

Despite the positive momentum, experts point out that Nepal’s legal and regulatory framework for stem cell therapy is still under development. The absence of comprehensive laws could slow down clinical applications, though the center plans to work closely with regulators to ensure ethical and safe practices.

Strategic Vision: South Asia’s Medical Hub

The founders of the NSCRC have emphasized their long-term goal of positioning Nepal as a South Asia medical hub for regenerative medicine. By promoting biotechnology research, international collaboration, and FDI in Nepal’s health sector, the center aims to attract global attention and investment.

Stem cell research can be applied not only in treating cancer, chronic diseases, and blood-related complications, but also in organ regeneration, drug discovery, and preventive medicine. The center is expected to create opportunities for medical tourism in Nepal, offering patients from neighboring countries access to affordable and advanced treatment.

A Game Changer

Doctors and medical professionals across Nepal have described the move as a game changer for Nepal’s healthcare system. With proper government support and regulatory clarity, they believe the NSCRC will reduce Nepal’s reliance on overseas hospitals, retain billions spent abroad on medical treatments, and provide cutting-edge healthcare to Nepali citizens domestically.

“This initiative could place Nepal in the front line of medical innovation in Asia. The center has the potential to drive both healthcare transformation and economic benefits through biotechnology-driven investment,” said a doctor from Alka Hospital.