Budget of NPR 65.5 Million Allocated for Red Panda Conservation in Eastern Hills

A budget of NPR 65,553,227 has been allocated for red panda conservation in the eastern hill districts for the year 2026. Conservation programs are currently underway in 42 community forests and two national forests across Ilam, Panchthar, and Taplejung. Various initiatives such as tree planting, research, and school education are implemented in collaboration with local partner organizations. (Panchthar, 12 May)

For community-based red panda conservation in the eastern hills, a total of NPR 65,553,227 has been earmarked for 2026. The Red Panda Network plans to utilize this budget in cooperation with local partner institutions in Ilam, Panchthar, and Taplejung (PIT) districts. The funds will support conservation efforts in 42 community forests and two national forests within these districts. Specifically, Panchthar district has been allocated NPR 16,324,000.

Information regarding red panda conservation status was shared during the District Project Advisory Committee meeting and project review sessions. In 2025, NPR 7,198,000 was spent on conservation efforts in Panchthar. Community-based red panda conservation programs have been ongoing for 18 years in these districts. Nationwide, conservation initiatives are active in 13 districts, focusing on protecting red panda natural habitats, raising community awareness, conducting tree plantations, organizing school education programs, and carrying out various research studies, all coordinated by the Red Panda Network.

“Special emphasis is placed on forest management, research, and school education related to the red panda,” said project coordinator Wangchu Bhutia. “Efforts are being made to identify fragmented habitats and restore them through tree planting, which remains a priority.” The red panda, a globally endangered species found only in five countries including Nepal, is the focus of growing conservation programs, festivals, activities, and research. Tourists from abroad also visit Ilam to observe the red pandas.