Papers by krishna acharya
Dengue, a mosquito-borne viral infectious disease, causes a high morbidity and mortality in tropi... more Dengue, a mosquito-borne viral infectious disease, causes a high morbidity and mortality in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. In Nepal, the first case of dengue was reported in 2004 followed by frequent outbreaks in subsequent years, with the largest being in 2019 taking the death toll of six. It is reported that the number of dengue fever cases are soaring in Nepal spreading from the plains to more hilly regions. This might have serious public health implications in the future when combined with other factors, such as: global warming, lack of early detection and treatment of dengue, lack of diagnostic facilities, poor healthcare systems and mosquito control strategies. Nepal, thus, needs a cost-effective mosquito control strategy for the prevention and control of dengue. The Wolbachia-mediated biological method of the dengue control strategy is novel, economic, and environment-friendly. It has been successfully trialed in several areas of dengue-prone countries of the world, including Australia, Malaysia, Vietnam etc. resulting in significant reductions in dengue incidence. Given the lack of effective vector control strategy and weak economic condition of the country along with the persistence of climate and environment conditions that favors the host (Aedes mosquito) for Wolbachia, this approach can be a promising option to control dengue in Nepal.
Confirmation of glanders has not been possible in suspected cases submitted by field veterinarian... more Confirmation of glanders has not been possible in suspected cases submitted by field veterinarians, mainly due to the lack of diagnostic tools in Nepal. In view, however, of the re-emergence of glanders in India and the unrestricted migration of equines from there in to Nepal, an outbreak of Glanders in the short term is a distinct possibility. Such an event would affect the rural, marginalized community, and brick kiln industries. Therefore, due attention on the national epidemiological study and strengthened animal quarantine system with holding yards and laboratory backups are highly requested. Besides, the government's timely action on disease prevalence, monitoring, and disease reporting is utmost important besides widespread public awareness to prevent the entry and control the disease.
The agro-climatic conditions, socio-economic situation, poor sanitation, low hygiene and health s... more The agro-climatic conditions, socio-economic situation, poor sanitation, low hygiene and health standards in Nepal are major contributing factors to the emergence of scrub typhus in Nepal. These outbreaks, along with poor diagnostic facilities, can lead to severe economic losses in a resource-limited country like Nepal. Diseases like avian influenza, leptospirosis, brucellosis, tuberculosis and rabies, that cause heavy socio-economic burden, have received huge attention of Government of Nepal and hence are among the top ten priority diseases. However, until now, scrub typhus is not considered a priority disease in Nepal, despite having severe outbreaks time to time. In order to diagnose and treat scrub typhus infection, low budget diagnostic tests such as Weil Felix are less efficient and poor in screening, and highly advanced & efficient tests are less likely to be available and are expensive. Nepal needs to explore appropriate and applicable test settings in primary health centers and referral laboratories in the country. Moreover, focus should be made on effective surveillance programs and public awareness campaigns, mice/rat control strategies, and improving sanitation, public health and hygiene measures for the people at most risk. In addition, health workers and professionals should be trained on early case detection, personal protection, proactive rodent control strategies, habitat destruction and good sanitation and hygiene practices.
The agro-climatic conditions, socio-economic situation, poor sanitation, low hygiene and health s... more The agro-climatic conditions, socio-economic situation, poor sanitation, low hygiene and health standards in Nepal are major contributing factors to the emergence of scrub typhus in Nepal. These outbreaks, along with poor diagnostic facilities, can lead to severe economic losses in a resource-limited country like Nepal. Diseases like avian influenza, leptospirosis, brucellosis, tuberculosis and rabies, that cause heavy socio-economic burden, have received huge attention of Government of Nepal and hence are among the top ten priority diseases. However, until now, scrub typhus is not considered a priority disease in Nepal, despite having severe outbreaks time to time. In order to diagnose and treat scrub typhus infection, low budget diagnostic tests such as Weil Felix are less efficient and poor in screening, and highly advanced & efficient tests are less likely to be available and are expensive. Nepal needs to explore appropriate and applicable test settings in primary health centers and referral laboratories in the country. Moreover, focus should be made on effective surveillance programs and public awareness campaigns, mice/rat control strategies, and improving sanitation, public health and hygiene measures for the people at most risk. In addition, health workers and professionals should be trained on early case detection, personal protection, proactive rodent control strategies, habitat destruction and good sanitation and hygiene practices.
Agriculture accounts for 25.68% of the Nepalese GDP and provides 66% of employment for the active... more Agriculture accounts for 25.68% of the Nepalese GDP and provides 66% of employment for the active Nepalese
population, thereby supporting the livelihood of 79% of the population. Livestock is an integral part of the
agricultural production system and a vital role in the Nepalese economy, accounting for approximately 15% of the
GDP and about 27% of the AGDP. Despite some commercialization, more than 80% of Nepalese farmers rear their
livestock by subsistence. The livestock serve as a source of meat and milk, as well as providing an important means
of transportation, a source of draught power, and manure used to increase land fertility. Livestock are the sole source
of draught power in the remote mountain areas of Nepal (e.g., Mustang). The infertile male offspring (Dimjo and
Urang Jhopkyos) are used as a source of draught power and a means of transportation.
Impoverished nomadic communities in Nepal rear Yaks, Sheep and Himali Goat to support their livelihood, with
little or no alternative means available. Their livestock are typically reared under the transhuman migratory system
and livestock husbandry is carried out under the traditional system, managed by their own indigenous knowledge.
Owing to the rugged topography, arid land and harsh climatic conditions, the rearing of livestock can be tedious.
However, the boon-Yak is well-adapted to such arid conditions, with Yak products being the principal source of
animal proteins for the nomadic communities residing in these rough terrains
Yak farming is critical for the livelihoods of poor rural nomads in the cold northern
areas of Ne... more Yak farming is critical for the livelihoods of poor rural nomads in the cold northern
areas of Nepal. However, this sector is yet to get the attention it deserves, argues
Krishna Acharya
Aim: The aim of the study was to document the indigenous ethno-botanical knowledge of the transhu... more Aim: The aim of the study was to document the indigenous ethno-botanical knowledge of the transhumant
nomads of Mustang, Nepal, a representative settlement in the Himalayan highland. Methodology: A study
was carried out during a direct field visit to collect plants, consisting of a semi-structured questionnaire and
personal interviews. Both fresh and dried herbs, plants parts, and fungus were collected as far as possible.
Results: The present study identified 51 medicinal plants and 2 funguses that were used for 47 different
ailments in the medicinal practices of the nomadic tribes of Lower Mustang, Nepal. Most of the medicines
were prepared as juice (22.64%) or powder (49.05%) and administered orally. Roots (23%) and leaves (28%)
were the most frequently used parts of the plants while prayer-laced ties were commonly applied in sheds
and housing areas. Conclusion: This study has shown that the transhumant pastoralist nomadic communities
have their own traditional ethno-botanical medicines that remain cost effective and the method of choice for
management of health disorders and is passed down through oral traditions under the guidance of an herbal
practitioner. There is a need for such practices to be scientifically validated, with respect and inclusion into
sustainable veterinary medicine to support these remotely located communities.
Traditional livestock production systems in highland areas of Nepal involve animals, especially
y... more Traditional livestock production systems in highland areas of Nepal involve animals, especially
yak and yak cattle hybrids as a source of food, prestige and security among the nomadic
communities. Yak, which is also known as ‘the camel of snow’, is the livestock of choice among
nomadic communities and is considered as the symbol of wealth. This study was done to
document the present status of yak husbandry system, problems and proscons of transhumant
pastoralism in the Mustang District of Nepal. 32 yak herders and 15 key persons, including the
local leaders and traditional healers were interviewed with semi-structured questionnaires
during February to May 2014. From this questionnaire survey and field visits, it revealed that
grazing system is the only feeding system with little or no feed supplementation. The population
and herd size are decreasing year by year. The herders are still following the uncontrolled
methods of breeding with one male serving all the females, till its productive age, with a high
degree of inbreeding. Disease endemicity, shortage of pasture, closure of Tibetan border for
pasturing, increased draught period, lack of technical and veterinary facilities and low
productivity are compelling herders to abandon the yak farming. They are usually following their
indigenous knowledge in the treatment of disease, pests and poisoning with very little or no
help from professional veterinarian. Although single species transhumant pastoralist is
moderately efficient with the integration of local knowledge in all aspects of animal husbandry, it
needs to be strengthened by integration of scientific method in breeding and feeding of yaks.
Immediate strong extension programs, including the bilateral coordination between yak herders
and researchers should be carried out, otherwise yak and their valuable resources will be
rooted out from this country
Poultry sector is an emerging industry in Nepal with two distinct pattern of
poultry production-i... more Poultry sector is an emerging industry in Nepal with two distinct pattern of
poultry production-intensive and scavenging. The scavenging poultry is
widely prevalent in the rural areas and nearly 45% of total poultry population
comprises of native flock and 55% of poultry birds accounts of commercial
poultry. In response to meet the urban demand for meat and egg, commercial
poultry production is growing rapidly by more than three times in recent years
(from 1985 to 2014). Poultry offers major advantages over other enterprises
due to its low cost protein source, low generation interval, complementary role
of poultry on other farming practices. In spite of its' potentiality, competition
with human and other animal food sources, high cost of production, new
disease challenges, low technical efficiency, lack of genetic improvement of
economic traits of local breeds, adverse climatic condition due to climate
change and unstable market for egg and meat are creating the major problem
for sustainability. These constraints should be addressed with on farm research
involving the middle class poultry producer along with others entrepreneurs
with diversification of poultry industry, semi-intensive poultry farming ,
effective quarantine, adoption of low cost technology, food safety and food
security with equal participation of stakeholders. Special emphasis should be
given on research of locally feasible production technology, suitable poultry
breeds and management. It gives new dimension towards poultry farming
program in different clusters of Nepal. Moreover participatory response of
poultry entrepreneur to program with priority to disease investigation,
eradication and escorting poultry industry would be valuable.
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Papers by krishna acharya
population, thereby supporting the livelihood of 79% of the population. Livestock is an integral part of the
agricultural production system and a vital role in the Nepalese economy, accounting for approximately 15% of the
GDP and about 27% of the AGDP. Despite some commercialization, more than 80% of Nepalese farmers rear their
livestock by subsistence. The livestock serve as a source of meat and milk, as well as providing an important means
of transportation, a source of draught power, and manure used to increase land fertility. Livestock are the sole source
of draught power in the remote mountain areas of Nepal (e.g., Mustang). The infertile male offspring (Dimjo and
Urang Jhopkyos) are used as a source of draught power and a means of transportation.
Impoverished nomadic communities in Nepal rear Yaks, Sheep and Himali Goat to support their livelihood, with
little or no alternative means available. Their livestock are typically reared under the transhuman migratory system
and livestock husbandry is carried out under the traditional system, managed by their own indigenous knowledge.
Owing to the rugged topography, arid land and harsh climatic conditions, the rearing of livestock can be tedious.
However, the boon-Yak is well-adapted to such arid conditions, with Yak products being the principal source of
animal proteins for the nomadic communities residing in these rough terrains
areas of Nepal. However, this sector is yet to get the attention it deserves, argues
Krishna Acharya
nomads of Mustang, Nepal, a representative settlement in the Himalayan highland. Methodology: A study
was carried out during a direct field visit to collect plants, consisting of a semi-structured questionnaire and
personal interviews. Both fresh and dried herbs, plants parts, and fungus were collected as far as possible.
Results: The present study identified 51 medicinal plants and 2 funguses that were used for 47 different
ailments in the medicinal practices of the nomadic tribes of Lower Mustang, Nepal. Most of the medicines
were prepared as juice (22.64%) or powder (49.05%) and administered orally. Roots (23%) and leaves (28%)
were the most frequently used parts of the plants while prayer-laced ties were commonly applied in sheds
and housing areas. Conclusion: This study has shown that the transhumant pastoralist nomadic communities
have their own traditional ethno-botanical medicines that remain cost effective and the method of choice for
management of health disorders and is passed down through oral traditions under the guidance of an herbal
practitioner. There is a need for such practices to be scientifically validated, with respect and inclusion into
sustainable veterinary medicine to support these remotely located communities.
yak and yak cattle hybrids as a source of food, prestige and security among the nomadic
communities. Yak, which is also known as ‘the camel of snow’, is the livestock of choice among
nomadic communities and is considered as the symbol of wealth. This study was done to
document the present status of yak husbandry system, problems and proscons of transhumant
pastoralism in the Mustang District of Nepal. 32 yak herders and 15 key persons, including the
local leaders and traditional healers were interviewed with semi-structured questionnaires
during February to May 2014. From this questionnaire survey and field visits, it revealed that
grazing system is the only feeding system with little or no feed supplementation. The population
and herd size are decreasing year by year. The herders are still following the uncontrolled
methods of breeding with one male serving all the females, till its productive age, with a high
degree of inbreeding. Disease endemicity, shortage of pasture, closure of Tibetan border for
pasturing, increased draught period, lack of technical and veterinary facilities and low
productivity are compelling herders to abandon the yak farming. They are usually following their
indigenous knowledge in the treatment of disease, pests and poisoning with very little or no
help from professional veterinarian. Although single species transhumant pastoralist is
moderately efficient with the integration of local knowledge in all aspects of animal husbandry, it
needs to be strengthened by integration of scientific method in breeding and feeding of yaks.
Immediate strong extension programs, including the bilateral coordination between yak herders
and researchers should be carried out, otherwise yak and their valuable resources will be
rooted out from this country
poultry production-intensive and scavenging. The scavenging poultry is
widely prevalent in the rural areas and nearly 45% of total poultry population
comprises of native flock and 55% of poultry birds accounts of commercial
poultry. In response to meet the urban demand for meat and egg, commercial
poultry production is growing rapidly by more than three times in recent years
(from 1985 to 2014). Poultry offers major advantages over other enterprises
due to its low cost protein source, low generation interval, complementary role
of poultry on other farming practices. In spite of its' potentiality, competition
with human and other animal food sources, high cost of production, new
disease challenges, low technical efficiency, lack of genetic improvement of
economic traits of local breeds, adverse climatic condition due to climate
change and unstable market for egg and meat are creating the major problem
for sustainability. These constraints should be addressed with on farm research
involving the middle class poultry producer along with others entrepreneurs
with diversification of poultry industry, semi-intensive poultry farming ,
effective quarantine, adoption of low cost technology, food safety and food
security with equal participation of stakeholders. Special emphasis should be
given on research of locally feasible production technology, suitable poultry
breeds and management. It gives new dimension towards poultry farming
program in different clusters of Nepal. Moreover participatory response of
poultry entrepreneur to program with priority to disease investigation,
eradication and escorting poultry industry would be valuable.