Kathmandu, Oct. 26 -- Eva [name changed], a staff nurse at a teaching hospital under Bhairahawa-based Universal College of Medical Science, receives only Rs13,000 as basic salary a month. The hospital also provides her additional Rs5,000 allowances in night-duty allowances.

"The amount isn't even insufficient to pay my monthly rent. How long can I ask my parents for money for survival," complained Eva, who does not wish to disclose her real name fearing retribution from the hospital administration. "Some of my colleagues receive even less-between Rs8,000 and Rs10,000. And some fresh graduates are compelled to work without pay."

This is a common refrain among thousands of nurses serving in private hospitals throughout the country, who sa...