Research on insect pests (including leafhoppers and planthoppers) in Nepal was initiated in 1956 by the Entomology Division and Plant Protection Units of the Department of Agriculture. More systematic work began after the establishment of a Rice Improvement Programme in 1972. Because of poor documentation and publication of research findings, it is difficult to assess the research efforts and achievements to date. The available research reports are mostly published in the proceedings of national seminars/workshops. They are used here to assess the current status of research on the occurrence and damage caused, distribution and composition, relative abundance, biology and management through chemicals. Much of past research has focused on insect surveys by light traps and sweep nets and the evaluation of insecticides and, since early 1990, some research on rice green leafhoppers (Nephotettix virescens and Nephotettix nigropictus) has begun to determine their relative abundance and population characteristics in relation to their potential as vectors of rice viruses. The challenges to pest management in general and some suggestions for future research needs are discussed, based on the present standing of agricultural research in the country