Research · Policy · Impact
An independent, non-governmental research institute dedicated to evidence-based knowledge on migration, labor, health, tourism, rural development, and sustainable policy since 1998.
Who we are
Who We Are The Nepal Institute of Development Studies (NIDS) is a non-governmental research organization established in 1998 and headquartered in Kathmandu, Nepal. For over two decades, NIDS has been at the forefront of development research, focusing on the critical issues that shape the social, economic, and political landscape of Nepal. NIDS contributes to the nation's development process through rigorous research, evidence-based program implementation, and active engagement with policymakers, civil society, and international partners. By bridging the gap between research…
"Development is not just economic growth — it is the expansion of human capabilities and freedoms."
A prosperous, equitable Nepal where development is informed by knowledge and shaped by those it serves.
High-quality research, training, and advocacy that strengthens policy and improves social and economic outcomes in Nepal.
Participatory fieldwork, quantitative surveys, and policy analysis — always centering the voices of communities we work with.
What we do
Decades of on-the-ground experience across Nepal's most critical development challenges.
Quantitative and qualitative research from household surveys to remote community action research across Nepal's provinces.
Practical curricula and resource manuals for government agencies, NGOs, and community organizations.
Evidence-backed policy analysis and master plan development for municipal, provincial, and national bodies.
Labor migration, returnee reintegration, and the social protection of Nepali workers abroad.
Community programs promoting sustainable livelihoods, agro-enterprise, and rural enterprise.
Independent M&E services helping donors and implementers measure real-world development impact.
Current work
Active programs addressing Nepal's most pressing development challenges.
Ongoing · Koshi Province
Supporting economic and social reintegration of returning migrant workers through enterprise development and skills training in Dhankuta Municipality.
Learn more →Completed
Emergency livelihood support and community recovery programming for COVID-19 affected households across two provinces.
Learn more →Completed · Multi-Partner
Virtual dialogues convening tourism operators, climate advocates, and government stakeholders to reimagine Nepal's tourism economy post-pandemic.
Learn more →Completed · Field Research
Participatory action research with communities in Udayapur district to co-design solutions with municipal authorities.
Learn more →Latest from NIDS
June 2026 · Uncategorized
Safe MigrationWomen’s access to land Migration and Health Mobile technology for rural empowerment
Read full story →Partner with us
Whether you are a researcher, policymaker, donor, or community leader — we welcome collaboration. Reach out to explore how we can work together.