The Government of Nepal has officially prohibited strikes in 25 essential services across the country under the Essential Services Operation Act, 1957 (2014 BS). The decision was published in the Nepal Gazette on Jestha 25 following a recommendation from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The list of restricted services includes postal, telecommunication, telephone, internet, and other communication services, as well as water, land, and air transportation services. Health-related services such as hospitals, health centers, ambulance operations, and the production and distribution of medicines have also been categorized as essential services where strikes are prohibited.

Additionally, services related to drinking water supply, electricity, petroleum transportation and distribution, and the import, transportation, and distribution of essential food items including rice, lentils, salt, and edible oil have been placed under the restriction.

The government has also included banking, insurance, tourism, hotel and restaurant services, veterinary services, weather forecasting services, passport and consular services in the list of essential sectors. Likewise, airport operations, defense-related production and distribution services, internal security operations, waste management services, government printing services, and services related to masks and hand sanitizers are covered by the ban.

The move aims to maintain the uninterrupted operation of services that directly impact public welfare, national security, healthcare, transportation, communication, and economic activities throughout the country.