Manang’s gateway village, Talgaun, is buzzing with athletes and artists as a friendly football tournament begins today. Esteemed players and renowned celebrities have arrived to participate in the event, which aims to support the conservation of snow leopards and yaks while promoting sustainable tourism.
Binod Gurung, Chairman of the Tourism Entrepreneurs Association, stated that the tournament has attracted artists and players from various parts of the country. The event, which started last year, is part of an ongoing effort to raise awareness about conservation.
Prashant Tamrakar, director of the ‘Ant Foundation,’ continuously organizing the program, emphasized the importance of preserving nature. “It is necessary to conserve our environment. In addition to promoting tourism, these awareness programs will contribute to protecting endangered wildlife and biodiversity,” he said.
Paras Bikram Shah, Director of the Nepal Society for Biodiversity Conservation, highlighted the dual objective of promoting tourism in Manang and protecting its biodiversity. “Given the increasing impact of climate change on the mountains, as reported by scientists, we must prioritize heritage conservation. While immediate results may not be visible, public awareness will grow,” he noted.
Resident Phurba Lama from Chame Rural Municipality-5 mentioned that the awareness programs, conducted with the collaboration of various organizations, have positively impacted the district. He remarked that local communities have become more conscious of conservation efforts.
The friendly football matches, held under the slogan “Together for Snow Leopards and Yaks,” are jointly organized by the Nepal Society for Biodiversity Conservation and the Ant Foundation. With the cooperation of Chame Rural Municipality and Manang Ngisyang Rural Municipality, along with support from various organizations including the National Nature Conservation Fund, Annapurna Conservation Area Project, Conservation Area Management Committee, and the District Football Association, the tournament is set to take place across multiple locations in the district.
