Nepal Lawmaker Proposes Selling Monkeys to China to Tackle Crop Damage
Proposal to Sell Monkeys to China to Address Crop Damage in Nepal
A lawmaker from Nepal's lower house has proposed selling monkeys to China as a solution to the increasing problem of crop destruction caused by these animals. During a discussion on urgent public matters, Ram Hari Khatiwada from the Nepali Congress suggested this idea, referencing Sri Lanka's similar approach. He believes this could help manage the monkey population and generate revenue for the government.
Challenges in Managing Monkey Population
The monkey menace has been a significant issue, especially in Nepal's hilly regions. Despite spending millions on studies, the government has not found effective measures to control the monkey population. The studies avoided recommending strict measures due to the religious significance of monkeys in Hinduism, where they are worshipped as the god Hanuman.
Legal and Environmental Considerations
Nepal is home to three monkey species: the Rhesus macaque, the Assamese monkey, and the Hanuman langur. As a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), Nepal faces restrictions on trading these animals internationally. The Rhesus macaque is protected under national laws, prohibiting its export without government permission. Violations can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
Doubts Revealed
Nepali lawmaker
A Nepali lawmaker is a person who helps make laws in Nepal, which is a country next to India.
Ram Hari Khatiwada
Ram Hari Khatiwada is the name of the person who is a lawmaker in Nepal and suggested selling monkeys to China.
Crop destruction
Crop destruction means when animals or other things damage the plants that farmers grow for food.
Sri Lanka's example
Sri Lanka is another country near India, and they have also thought about selling monkeys to manage their population.
CITES
CITES stands for the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. It's an agreement between countries to protect animals and plants that are at risk of extinction.
Protected species
Protected species are animals or plants that are given special care by the law because they are rare or important.
Hinduism
Hinduism is a major religion in India and Nepal, and it considers monkeys to be sacred or very special animals.
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