About Basanta Shrestha

Basanta Shrestha, an esteemed professional with 32 years of dedicated service at the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), held the distinguished position of Director of Strategic Cooperation. With a solid foundation in engineering and an extensive background in digital technologies, strategic partnership development, resource mobilization, and leadership, Mr. Shrestha has left an indelible mark on sustainable mountain development initiatives in the Hindu Kush Himalayan region and across the globe.

Mr. Shrestha co-founded the Mountain Environment and Resources Information System (MENRIS) program, pioneering the utilization of earth observation and geospatial technologies for sustainable mountain development. His stewardship has resulted in groundbreaking collaborations with NASA and USAID, notably through the SERVIR-Himalaya program, which bridges technology and innovation for reducing climate change impacts and addressing mountain development challenges.

Passionate about environmental conservation, Mr. Shrestha actively engages in promoting green technology for sustainable living. His dedication to fostering collaboration and innovation continues to inspire a new generation of leaders in Nepal and beyond. Inspired by nature, he is currently living in a Hamro Matoghar (mud house) at Godavari, Kathmandu, practicing an eco-conscious lifestyle to inspire youth towards future sustainability.