Government, private sector pledge to revive Nepal’s tourism industry
KATHMANDU: Government and private sector representatives have pledged to work together to revive Nepal’s tourism industry.
Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA), in coordination with the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), organised a discussion in the capital on Monday, at which heads and representatives of key stakeholders committed to restoring the sector.
They noted that tourism has suffered catastrophic losses and challenges due to Gen Z protests, but said it is now on the path to reconstruction and progress.
Ministry Secretary Hari Prasad Mainali said the ministry is committed to removing policy hurdles and emphasised the need for closer collaboration between government and private enterprise. “Immediate measures have been initiated to make necessary reforms to revitalise the tourism sector. We are working to promote Nepal as a safe destination by improving its image and maximising the use of information technology,” he added.
NTB Vice President Ram Prasad Sapkota underlined the need to publicise a ‘tourism package’ to stimulate the season and stressed the importance of conveying Nepal’s safety through embassies, non-resident Nepalis and other networks.
Hotel Association Nepal (HAN) President Binayak Shah assured guests of full hospitality and a warm reception despite losses in the hotel industry. “Adventure tourism has been less affected. As the area is safe, tourist numbers are rising,” he said.
Addressing the programme, Nepal Association of Tour and Travel Agents (NATTA) President Kumar Mani Thapaliya echoed calls to promote Nepal as a safe destination for visitors.
NTB Chief Executive Officer Deepak Raj Joshi cited examples of tourism revival during previous critical periods.
The NTB also held discussions with chiefs, general managers and representatives of five-star and four-star hotels, where operators expressed their readiness to welcome guests, provided the state facilitates their efforts.
By RSS
