Banking News — Nepal’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forests and Environment has released Rs. 500 million to the Department of Livestock Services to compensate farmers affected by outbreaks of avian influenza (bird flu).

The ministry reallocated the funds to support compensation payments for poultry, eggs, and feed destroyed in 11 districts where bird flu infections have been confirmed.

The Department of Livestock Services had requested financial assistance from the ministry to provide relief to farmers who suffered economic losses due to the outbreak. Department spokesperson Dr. Mukul Upadhyay said affected farmers will receive compensation of up to 75 percent of their verified losses.

According to the department, approximately 700,000 birds, 1.1 million eggs, and 300,000 kilograms of poultry feed were destroyed in the affected districts of Kathmandu, Lalitpur, Bhaktapur, Kavrepalanchok District, Jhapa District, Morang District, Sunsari District, Mahottari District, Bara District, Chitwan District, and Nawalparasi District. The total estimated loss from the outbreak stands at around Rs. 700 million.

Under the Bird Flu Control (Fourth Amendment) Guidelines, 2017 (2074 BS), owners of destroyed poultry, poultry products, and related materials are entitled to compensation of up to 75 percent of the assessed value of their losses.

Bird flu began spreading from Nepal’s eastern region in March–April (Chaitra 2082 BS) and has since been confirmed in 11 districts. Officials said infected birds, eggs, and feed were destroyed to prevent further transmission and reduce the risk of viral mutation.

The department has established a Bird Flu Control Unit under the leadership of its Deputy Director General and is continuing containment efforts in coordination with federal, provincial, and local governments.