Independent Power Producers’ Association, Nepal (IPPAN) President Ganesh Karki has said that it is necessary to create an environment where women can invest in the energy sector.
While the issue of low female participation in the energy sector continues to be raised, President Karki emphasized that a women-friendly policy is essential if women are to be encouraged to participate.
“Despite having the capacity, many women have not been able to enter this sector due to a lack of investment. It is necessary to increase women’s participation not only in jobs but also in management within the energy sector,” he said while speaking with women journalists covering the energy beat on Wednesday.
He added that since energy is a vital and essential sector—like food, shelter, and clothing—the government must also pay attention to ensuring the overall security of the energy sector.
IPPAN Secretary Kabita Pokhrel said that women’s participation in this sector is low because it is technical and involves certain challenges. She added that many women, even after entering the sector, have not been able to advance due to their continued engagement in household responsibilities.
“The government’s policy should also be encouraging toward women. If women are provided with tax exemptions or other incentives, they will be attracted to invest in this sector,” she said.
Setopati
