REQUEST FOR CONSULTANT PROPOSAL: National Aquaculture Genetics and Hatchery Specialist

REQUEST FOR CONSULTANT PROPOSAL

RFP: 002/2026 

National Aquaculture Genetics and Hatchery Specialist

Issuance Date: February 02, 2026  

Closing Date: February 10, 2026

Components of this solicitation are as follows 

Appendix A: Terms of Reference and requirements 

Appendix B: Instructions for Application and Review Process

Background

Current status of Aquaculture in Nepal

Nepal’s aquaculture sector has expanded steadily in recent years, yet its growth is constrained by persistent challenges in seed quality and genetic resources. Despite favorable climatic conditions and growing demand, productivity remains well below potential due to decades of unplanned inbreeding, lack of improved broodstock, and widespread reliance on informal seed sources.

Over 80% of fish seed, particularly carp, pangasius, and tilapia is informally imported from India, leading to concerns over genetic deterioration, poor survival rates, and increased risk of disease introduction. Most domestic hatcheries operate with outdated infrastructure, inadequate broodstock management, and limited application of modern breeding protocols. Pangasius and tilapia hatcheries, in particular, suffer from high larval mortality and lack of standardized nursery systems.

Compounding the problem, Nepal lacks a national regulatory framework for seed certification, genetic traceability, or quarantine measures. This vacuum allows for unchecked importation of low-quality seed, including ornamental species that pose biosecurity threats. Both public institutions and private hatcheries face acute shortages of trained personnel and genetic management tools.

Nepal Aquaculture Development Project 

The Nepal Aquaculture Development Project is a USDA Food for Progress initiative implemented by Lutheran World Relief (LWR) in Nepal. The project aims to (i) increase fish-farmer productivity by improving access to quality inputs, services, finance, and end-market linkages, and (ii) expand aquaculture-related trade and market systems, including inputs, services, fingerlings, fish, and processed fish.

The proejct is delivered through six integrated activity areas: (1) SPS training, (2) farm/market/trade infrastructure, (3) capacity building for extension services, (4) strengthening input suppliers (feed mills, hatcheries, agro-dealers), (5) MSME-focused financial services, and (6) public information and nutrition campaigns. The project operates in 14 districts across five provinces and targets 9,500+ farmers, 47 hatcheries, 18 feed mills, and 500+ value-chain actors.

This consultancy directly supports the project’s productivity and input-system agenda—addressing genetics and seed quality constraints and strengthening hatchery performance, which is essential for improved farmer productivity and overall sector growth.

APPLICATIONS – Applications are to be submitted electronically via email no later than the Last Application Receipt Date, which is defined as February 06, 2026. Electronic applications must be addressed and delivered to email: lwrnepalcontact@lwr.org

Click on the link below for the detailed TOR:

REQUEST FOR CONSULTANT PROPOSAL: National Aquaculture Genetics and Hatchery Specialist