In a landmark step toward deeper regional energy integration, India and Nepal on Wednesday sealed agreements to create two joint venture (JV) entities for developing high-capacity cross-border power transmission lines. The pacts were signed in New Delhi between Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (POWERGRID), a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise, and the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA), marking a new milestone in bilateral energy cooperation.
The signing ceremony took place in the presence of India’s Union Power Minister Manohar Lal and Nepal’s Minister for Energy, Water Resources and Irrigation, Kulman Ghising. The agreements pave the way for the incorporation of one JV in India and another in Nepal to execute two strategic transmission projects— the Inaruwa (Nepal)–New Purnea (India) 400 kV Double Circuit (Quad Moose) Transmission Line, and the Lamki (Dododhara) (Nepal)–Bareilly (India) 400 kV Double Circuit (Quad Moose) Transmission Line.
Once completed, these power corridors will revolutionize cross-border electricity exchange by expanding transfer capacity, stabilizing grids, and ensuring the reliable flow of electricity between the two nations. The enhanced infrastructure is expected to significantly contribute to regional energy security, economic growth, and the integration of renewable energy resources.
During the meeting, the ministers discussed broader areas of collaboration in the energy sector, including the development of hydropower projects in Nepal and regional grid connectivity initiatives. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to advancing clean energy cooperation, exploring new cross-border trade opportunities, and strengthening the long-term strategic partnership built on shared energy goals.
Nepal’s growing energy exports underscore the strength of this cooperation. After commencing electricity supply of 185 MW to Haryana on June 1, the NEA has increased the export to 200 MW. Additionally, Nepal now exports electricity to Bangladesh via India’s transmission corridor, channelled through Muzaffarpur and Behrampur to reach Bangladesh’s Bheramara Substation— a glowing example of regional power integration in South Asia.