MetLife Nepal Steps Up to Combat Snakebite Risks in Rural Areas 

Jhapa, August 21, 2025 - MetLife Nepal has partnered with the Kankai Sahara Snakebite Treatment Center in Jhapa under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative to address the growing risk of snakebites in the region. Rising temperatures, coupled with the agricultural lifestyle of the district, have increased the vulnerability of communities, particularly in rural areas. 

Snakebite is a significant public health issue in Nepal, claiming hundreds of lives every year specially in districts like Jhapa among the most affected. Limited awareness, lack of timely medical response, and insufficient treatment facilities often lead to preventable fatalities and long-term health complications. These figures highlight the urgent need for both preventive education and improved access to treatment in vulnerable communities.

The program aims to enhance community knowledge about snakebite prevention and immediate response, provide rural communities in the central part of Jhapa with easier access to treatment facilities, and ultimately reduce the number of snakebite-related deaths. By supporting the Center’s efforts, MetLife Nepal will contribute to awareness campaigns, promote preventive measures, and strengthen access to timely and lifesaving treatment.

"Snakebite remains a serious yet often overlooked public health concern in rural Nepal. By working with the Kankai Sahara Snakebite Treatment Center, we are committed to ensuring that communities not only have the knowledge to prevent snakebites but also the access to critical care when it matters most. This is part of our broader mission to create a safer, healthier future for all Nepalis," said Nirmal Kajee Shrestha, General Manager of MetLife Nepal. 
 

About MetLife

MetLife, Inc. (NYSE: MET), through its subsidiaries and affiliates (“MetLife”), is one of the world’s leading financial services companies, providing insurance, annuities, employee benefits and asset management to help individual and institutional customers build a more confident future. Founded in 1868, MetLife has operations in more than 40 markets globally and holds leading positions in the United States, Asia, Latin America, Europe and the Middle East. For more information, visit www.metlife.com.

About MetLife Nepal

MetLife has been operating in Nepal since 2001 as a branch of American Life Insurance Company, incorporated in the USA, subsidiary of MetLife, Inc. In Nepal, MetLife provides consumers and businesses with life insurance, accident & health insurance and employee benefits (group insurance). For more information, visit www.metlife.com.np or call +977-1-5970166.

About Kankai Sahara Snakebite Treatment Center 

The Kankai Sahara Snakebite Treatment Center, located in Kankai Municipality, Jhapa, is a community-managed healthcare facility dedicated to providing emergency care for snakebite victims. Established in 2016, it operates 24/7 and offers critical services including specialist consultations, ICU care, and ventilator support. The center serves as a lifeline for communities in Jhapa and nearby districts, where snakebites are a serious health risk due to the region’s agricultural lifestyle and climate. In addition to treatment, it works to raise awareness about prevention and timely response, helping save lives in one of Nepal’s most snakebite-prone areas.