NEW DELHI, September 14, 2026: India has approved the export of up to 654 MW of electricity to Nepal through two transmission corridors, providing critical support to its neighbour after recent floods damaged hydropower infrastructure and reduced domestic generation capacity.
The Ministry of Power has cleared power exports to the Nepal Electricity Authority for 18 hours a day—from midnight to 6 p.m.—from September 13 through December 31, 2026.
Under the approval, up to 600 MW will be supplied through the Muzaffarpur–Dhalkebar 400 kV double-circuit line, while another 54 MW will flow through the Tanakpur–Mahendranagar 132 kV single-circuit line.
The quantum of electricity to be exported from January 2027 will be reviewed in December 2026, indicating that India’s support could be calibrated against Nepal’s recovery in domestic power generation.
The decision comes as floods have caused significant damage to hydropower infrastructure across Nepal, creating an additional requirement for electricity at a critical time for the country’s economy.
For Nepal, the additional power is not simply about keeping the lights on. Reliable electricity will be essential for rescue and relief operations, hospitals, businesses, industries and the broader economic recovery as damaged infrastructure is gradually restored.
The move also reinforces the growing importance of cross-border energy cooperation between India and Nepal, with electricity trade emerging as a significant component of bilateral economic ties.
‘A Ray of Light’
Commenting on the decision, Navita Srikant, India Nepal Relations Observer, said India’s role as a first responder should be viewed as a sustained commitment rather than a short-term intervention.
“India standing by Nepal as a First Responder is not merely a short-term commitment. Power support will sustain rescue and relief, while enabling businesses, industries and the economy to recover.”
With the festive months approaching, Srikant described the power support as a reflection of India’s neighbourly commitment and expressed hope that the cooperation would also create space for suitable bilateral considerations to support Nepal’s wider recovery and rebuilding.
“It makes me proud,” she said.
The latest approval underscores India’s stated commitment to supporting Nepal through its recovery while strengthening long-standing cooperation in the energy sector.
For Nepal’s economy, the immediate priority is clear: restore infrastructure, restore power and restore economic activity. India’s additional electricity supply could provide a crucial bridge until Nepal’s own generation capacity begins to recover.
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