India, Nepal Sign New MoU to Boost Forest and Wildlife Cooperation

India and Nepal signed a new MoU on forests, wildlife, biodiversity conservation and climate change on February 25 2026 in the New Delhi. The agreement aims to strengthen the bilateral cooperation in protecting shared ecosystems and restoring transboundary wildlife corridors. The MoU was signed in the presence of Union Minister Bhupender Yadav and Nepal’s Forests and Environment Minister Madhav Prasad Chaulagain which is marking a fresh chapter in India-Nepal environmental ties.

India Nepal MoU on Forests and Wildlife Cooperation

• The MoU was signed between India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and Nepal’s Ministry of Forests and Environment.
• The agreement promotes bilateral cooperation in forests, wildlife, biodiversity conservation and climate change.
• It includes restoration of wildlife corridors, exchange of technical expertise and sharing of best practices.
• The India Nepal MoU reflects the importance of coordinated action in managing shared ecosystems and cross-border wildlife habitats.

Key Focus Areas of the India Nepal MoU

The MoU outlines multiple areas of cooperation. It emphasizes formulation of biodiversity conservation strategies at the landscape level.

Key species identified under the pact include,

• Elephant
• Gangetic dolphin
• Rhinoceros
• Snow leopard
• Tiger
• Vultures

The agreement also aims to strengthen protected area management, restore wildlife corridors and combat forest and wildlife crime. Capacity building for frontline enforcement staff and promotion of smart green infrastructure in biodiversity hotspots are also included.

Why India Nepal Cooperation Matters for Biodiversity Conservation

• India and Nepal shared rich biodiversity and extensive protected area networks.
• Several wildlife habitats and river systems cross international borders.
• Species like the tiger, elephant and rhinoceros migrate across both countries.
• Because of these transboundary ecosystems, joint conservation strategies are essential.
• The India Nepal MoU will help create integrated conservation landscapes and ensure coordinated protection of shared species and habitats.

Climate Change and Transboundary Wildlife Corridors

• The MoU also strengthens climate change cooperation between the two countries.
• Climate change poses serious threats to Himalayan ecosystems, forests and river systems.
• Restoration of transboundary wildlife corridors will improve habitat connectivity and allow species to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
• Coordinated climate action and ecosystem-based adaptation strategies are expected to enhance regional resilience.

Combating Wildlife Crime and Strengthening Enforcement

• Another major feature of the India Nepal MoU is tackling forest and wildlife crime.
• Illegal poaching, timber smuggling and trafficking of wildlife products remain serious concerns in the region.
• The agreement promotes better coordination between enforcement agencies and capacity building of frontline forest officials.
• Sharing intelligence and strengthening monitoring mechanisms will help protect biodiversity more effectively.

Question

Q. The India-Nepal MoU signed in 2026 focuses primarily on cooperation in,

A) Trade and commerce
B) Defence and security
C) Forests, wildlife and climate change
D) Tourism promotion