President Sherpa appeals for resolution to sustain Nepal’s tourism growth
KATHMANDU– The Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to enhancing Nepal’s mountain tourism, even as it faces obstacles in accessing government-allocated funds. During a recent meeting with Honorable Minister Badri Prasad Pandey, NMA President Mr. Nima Nuru Sherpa delivered an extensive briefing to shed light on the association’s significant achievements, current initiatives, and persistent hurdles.
The meeting commenced with President Sherpa presenting a detailed PowerPoint briefing that outlined the NMA’s strategic endeavors aimed at elevating Nepal’s reputation as a premier mountain tourism destination. The presentation emphasized the organization’s long-standing dedication to promoting Nepal’s iconic mountain ranges and adventure tourism globally, as well as its efforts to support climbers, mountaineers, and local communities reliant on the tourism sector.
However, President Sherpa also used the occasion to express frustration regarding the association’s inability to access government-allocated funds critical to sustaining and expanding its work. Despite the NMA’s compliance with all government directives and procedures, certain officials continue to raise unwarranted concerns, hindering the release of resources essential for the association’s operations.
Addressing this issue, President Sherpa remarked, “We are working solely to promote Nepal’s mountain tourism worldwide. We have followed all government directives. Still, some officials question us regarding the same. This has really hampered the valuable work the NMA has been doing for the betterment of Nepal’s mountain tourism.”
The briefing also highlighted the far-reaching implications of these delays, including their impact on the NMA’s ability to implement innovative programs, organize international events, and provide crucial support to the communities and professionals involved in mountain tourism. Sherpa emphasized that the association’s efforts are vital not only for the growth of Nepal’s tourism industry but also for the livelihoods of countless individuals who depend on it.
In response, Minister Pandey acknowledged the concerns raised by President Sherpa and assured the NMA of the government’s commitment to resolving the issues at hand. The meeting concluded with a renewed call for collaboration and mutual understanding between the NMA and government entities, with both sides expressing optimism about overcoming the challenges to ensure the continued success of Nepal’s mountain tourism sector.
As one of Nepal’s key organizations for promoting mountain tourism, the NMA has been instrumental in organizing events, advocating sustainable tourism practices, and fostering international partnerships. The association remains determined to uphold its mission and expand Nepal’s presence on the global tourism stage, despite the hurdles it currently faces.
The NMA’s plea for support serves as a reminder of the importance of unified efforts in advancing Nepal’s tourism industry, which has long been a cornerstone of the nation’s economy and identity. Moving forward, it is hoped that all stakeholders will work together to address these issues and pave the way for an even brighter future for Nepal’s mountain tourism.