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Nepal Farmers Battle Wildlife Devastation
15 Sep
Summary
- Wildlife causes substantial crop losses, averaging over 50% for maize.
- Farmers face complex documentation for limited wildlife damage relief.
- Lawmakers urge a national action plan to address rising crop losses.
Farmers across Nepal are reporting significant crop losses, with wildlife such as rhesus macaques, wild boars, and porcupines causing extensive damage. A 2026 study indicated that surveyed households lost an average of 50.3% of their maize production, with figures escalating to 90% in Gandaki Province and 88% in Karnali Province. Rice and wheat crops have also suffered severe damage in regions like Sudurpashchim.
The government offers a relief mechanism for wildlife-induced crop damage, capped at NPR 10,000. However, accessing this assistance can be arduous, requiring farmers to submit up to 12 types of documents and recommendations. This process has prompted calls from lawmakers for a national strategy to manage escalating crop losses.
Recent parliamentary discussions in August 2026 highlighted the impact on agricultural production and rural livelihoods. A 15-member technical task force was formed in May 2026 to review policies and recommend conflict management measures. Furthermore, a wildlife-risk insurance policy was approved in July 2026, offering coverage for human and property losses up to NPR 50,000 for agricultural damage.
These developments underscore Nepal's multi-pronged approach to human-wildlife conflict, encompassing relief systems, policy reviews, national action plans, and insurance schemes. The issue affects multiple provinces, with wildlife damage reported in Bagmati, Gandaki, Sudurpashchim, Koshi, Lumbini, and Madhesh.
