Permission granted for the domestication and trade of 21 wild animals
KATHMANDU, Nov 1: It has been two months since the Nepal government initiated the law allowing individuals to keep 21 types of wild animals and birds at home, but not a single person has applied for this unique opportunity. The Ministry of Forest and Environment introduced the "Standard on Keeping, Breeding, and Using Wild Animals Commercially" on September 4, aiming to promote economic prosperity through the sustainable conservation and commercial use of these animals.
Chitwan National Park rescues 142 wild animals
These standards were passed under Rule 368 of the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Rules, 2030, which permit the professional rearing of specific wildlife species at home. The approved animals include laguna, barking deer, spotted deer, blue buck, rabbit, porcupine, boar, snake, crocodile, frog, toad, peacock, kalij, feral chicken, partridge, black francolin, dove, maina, and parrot, with the requirement to obtain a license from the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Department.
Despite initial interest before the standards were passed, no applications have been received, according to Ajay Karki, Deputy Director General of the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation. Karki attributed this to the lack of awareness and discussions at the grassroots level. The standards aim to ensure economic prosperity through the conservation of non-endangered wildlife, and the government provides the necessary seeds for wildlife rearing, which must not be sold. However, animals born after rearing can be sold commercially.
The standards also require post-mortem examinations for wild animals that die at home to prevent the spread of disease and ensure environmental health. Obtaining a license to keep wild animals at home is a lengthy and intricate process involving various documents and recommendations from local authorities, further contributing to the lack of applications.
Owners of such animals can seek veterinary assistance if their pets become ill or injured, but transporting domesticated wild animals between locations is subject to legal provisions.
