Nepali Scientist Highlights Low-Cost Health Innovations at Journalists' Forum

 KATHMANDU, JULY 13 — Nepali scientist Dr. Basant Giri delivered an inspiring message about the impact of locally driven scientific research at the seventh "Meet the Scientist" event organized by the Nepal Forum of Science Journalists (NFSJ). Speaking on the theme “Science That Serves: Impacting Lives Through Research in Nepal,” Dr. Giri emphasized how homegrown innovation can save lives and tackle serious health issues.

A senior scientist at the Kathmandu Institute of Applied Sciences (KIAS), Dr. Giri has authored 50 research papers, many published in high-impact international journals. His work focuses on four key areas: detecting fake medicines and pesticides, smartphone-based microscopy, testing face mask effectiveness, and measuring iodine in salt.

Dr. Giri opened his talk with alarming facts: “In low- and middle-income countries, 13.6% of medicines are fake or poor quality. In Asia, it's 13.7%, and in Africa, 18.7%,” he said. These counterfeit drugs not only waste people’s time and money but also cause severe illness and even death—resulting in over 100,000 deaths every year and global losses of up to $200 billion.

To fight this problem, Dr. Giri and his team at KIAS developed a simple, low-cost paper test (just Rs. 50) to detect fake antidiabetic drugs. Made from handmade paper, the test doesn’t require advanced equipment or skills. “This tool allows on-the-spot detection of counterfeit drugs—it's quick, reliable, and affordable,” he explained.

He also introduced an AI-powered smartphone microscope that helps detect parasites, making diagnostics more accessible in remote areas.

Another important part of Dr. Giri’s presentation focused on a citizen-science project that tested iodine levels in household salt. In the study, school students collected salt samples, and teachers tested them using World Health Organization methods. The results showed an average iodine level of 54.8 mg/kg, which means adults may be consuming 547 micrograms of iodine daily—more than three times the WHO’s recommended amount of 150 micrograms. This raised concerns about over-iodization.

Reflecting on his 10 years of research in Nepal, Dr. Giri said, “Doing science in Nepal isn’t easy—but it’s possible, powerful, and necessary. It takes creativity, teamwork, and the belief that knowledge can change lives.”

NFSJ President Rajan Pokhrel praised Dr. Giri’s ability to explain complex science in simple terms, helping the public better understand the importance of research. Chhatra Karki, Vice President of the World Federation of Science Journalists, stressed the importance of science communication: “Journalists need to understand scientific facts to report accurately. Events like this help build that skill.”

Former NFSJ President Rajendra Khanal applauded Dr. Giri for carrying out impactful research despite limited funding and for sharing his findings directly with the media.

The event served as a reminder of how powerful local research can be when combined with clear communication—and how it can lead to real improvements in public health and safety.

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