Nepal Makes Progress in Controlling Bird Flu Outbreak

Businessmen in Nepal’s poultry industry have credited the government’s swift action for controlling the recent bird flu outbreak. According to Vinod Pokharel, president of the Nepal Poultry Entrepreneurs’ Association, the government’s efforts to raise awareness and take necessary precautions have helped prevent the spread of the disease.

Pokharel stated that the association, along with the Nepal Hatchery Industry Central Committee, has expressed gratitude to the Department of Animal Services for their efforts in controlling the outbreak. In a letter, they praised the department’s round-the-clock work and awareness campaigns, which helped prevent further damage to the industry.

The association’s president also commended the government’s prompt response, citing it as an example of how timely intervention can minimize losses. He added that the government’s efforts have created an environment that allows farmers to resume work.

Rajendra Lamichhane, president of the Nepal Hatchery Industry Central Committee, met with the director-general of the Department of Animal Services to express appreciation for their efforts in controlling the outbreak. He stated that 99.99% of the disease has been controlled and that they are confident that there will be no further outbreaks in other areas.

Lamichhane highlighted the importance of the poultry industry, which is one of the few self-sufficient sectors in Nepal’s agriculture. He noted that the industry contributes around 3% to the country’s GDP and provides direct employment to over 500,000 people. He emphasized the need for the government to protect and promote the industry, which has an investment of around Rs 160 billion.

According to Dr. Umesh Dahal, director-general of the Department of Animal Services, no new cases of bird flu have been reported in Nepal since Shrawan 1. He stated that over 835,000 birds have been culled, and 11.6 million eggs and 245,000 kg of feed have been destroyed. He added that the government has provided immediate relief to affected farmers, with Rs 507 million already disbursed to 104 farmers and farms.

Dr. Dahal attributed the success in controlling the outbreak to the government’s efforts and the cooperation of farmers. He noted that the country’s bird disease laboratories have been conducting rapid tests, and the government’s prompt response has helped prevent further outbreaks.

As the outbreak is brought under control, the consumption of chicken and eggs has increased, and farmers are now receiving fair prices for their products. Previously, the outbreak had led to a decline in prices, affecting farmers’ livelihoods.