Diktel: The BIO-RETHA International Conference 2026, focusing on Red Panda, Tahr, and Himalayan Biodiversity, is set to take place from April 17 to 19 in Diktel, Khotang. This event will host participants from Nepal, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Germany, India, and the United States, among other nations. The conference aims to unite global researchers and conservationists to discuss the protection of endangered red pandas and Himalayan tahrs through scientific research, community involvement, and sustainable management.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the conference is organized by Diktel Rupakot Majhuwagadhi Municipality in collaboration with the Koshi Province Government, Department of Wildlife and National Parks, Department of Forest and Soil Conservation, Red Panda Network, and other organizations. Mayor Tirtharaj Bhattarai emphasized that the conference is expected to contribute significantly to the formation of necessary national policies, especially as wildlife and biodiversity face challenges due to climate change.
Although 23 other countries had expressed a commitment to participate, several were unable to attend due to the ongoing war in West Asia. During the event, the municipality plans to promote the Red Panda-Thar trekking route, highlighting the presence of red pandas in nearby forests. Additionally, a community-based red panda conservation program has been launched in Patheka, Municipality-1, and Kepilasgadhi Rural Municipality-1.