Demand to Grant Veterinary Doctors Equal Status to Medical Doctors
The 16th National Veterinary Conference commenced in Rupandehi, with the opening ceremony conducted by Lumbini Province Chief Minister Chetanarayan Acharya. Chief Minister Acharya emphasized the need to show greater respect to farmers and veterinary doctors and indicated that the provincial government is prepared to amend discriminatory laws. Over 150 research papers are expected to be presented at the conference, which is believed to significantly contribute to the development of animal health and new technologies.
Under the slogan “A Healthy Path for Sustainable Livestock and Food Security,” the conference began in Manigram, Rupandehi. Chief Minister Acharya highlighted that agriculture and livestock farming are the foundation of Nepal’s sustainable development and self-reliance. He stressed the importance of giving more respect to farmers and veterinary doctors who treat livestock and poultry. He stated, “Only medical doctors who treat humans receive respect, but the mindset of not respecting farmers and veterinarians who tend to cows, buffaloes, and goats that provide milk, meat, and dung is incorrect.”
Noting the necessity to change the government’s perspective toward animal health professionals and veterinary manpower, Chief Minister Acharya also announced the provincial government’s readiness to reform discriminatory laws. He underscored the need to encourage veterinary professionals and emphasized the requirement for serious efforts in this sector. At the conference, Dr. Kedar Suvedi, President of the Nepal Veterinary Association, reiterated the long-standing demand to grant veterinary doctors the same status and service benefits as medical doctors.
President Suvedi highlighted complaints regarding inequality and discrimination towards his profession, stating the government has not given the expected priority in policies and budgets. He urged that experts from the Nepal Veterinary Association must be involved in policymaking and that suggestions from specialists should be considered while amending laws like the Drug Act and the Veterinary Council Act. Present at the event were Prof. Dr. Sharda Thapaliya, Vice Chancellor of Agriculture and Forestry University, Rampur Chitwan; Dr. Ramanandan Tiwari, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development; and Dr. Teerth Regmi, Country Director of Heifer International. They pointed out that although livestock farming is a strong pillar of the country’s economic prosperity, it does not receive priority in policies, programs, or budgets at any of the three government levels. They recommended prioritizing this sector and increasing investment in encouraging veterinary manpower and new research and innovation.
The conference will feature more than 150 research papers along with group discussions. It is expected to make a significant contribution to the advancement of animal health, research, and new technologies in Nepal.