Lalitpur -An interaction program on “Alcohol Use in Nepal: Policy Challenges, Addiction, and Mental Health” was organized by the Nepal Alcohol Policy Alliance (NAPA) in coordination with the National Health Education, Information and Communication Centre (NHEICC), bringing together government officials, public health experts, civil society representatives, and advocates to discuss Nepal’s escalating alcohol-related challenges.
Speakers at the program underlined that harmful alcohol consumption has emerged as a serious public health issue in Nepal, with far-reaching consequences for mental health, household food security, and social wellbeing. Particular concern was expressed over the growing impact on children, adolescents, and women, who often face indirect harms such as domestic violence, neglect, and economic insecurity linked to alcohol use within families.
Government representatives acknowledged that the state has already taken steps to address the issue, including raising taxes on alcoholic beverages and limiting their availability. However, they emphasized that these measures alone are insufficient. Participants stressed the urgent need for a comprehensive national alcohol policy that clearly defines regulation, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation, while ensuring effective implementation at federal, provincial, and local levels.
Health experts presented data indicating a steady rise in alcohol addiction cases, alongside increasing mental health problems associated with harmful drinking. They noted that early exposure to alcohol and weak enforcement of existing regulations are placing adolescents and young people at heightened risk. Experts called for evidence-based awareness campaigns, stronger policy reforms, and better integration of alcohol harm prevention within Nepal’s broader public health and mental health strategies.
The program concluded with a collective call for stronger collaboration between government agencies, civil society organizations, health institutions, and communities. Participants agreed that reducing alcohol-related harm in Nepal will require sustained political commitment, informed policymaking, and coordinated action to protect public health and promote mental wellbeing, particularly among the country’s most vulnerable populations.
