The Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) successfully held its 35th Annual General Meeting (AGM), marking another milestone in the nation’s efforts to strengthen mountain tourism and the mountaineering sector. The meeting formally approved the policies, programs, and budget for the fiscal year 2082/83, while also reviewing the association’s achievements and challenges from the past year.
Policy and Budget Ratified Unanimously
In the closed session of the AGM, General Secretary Mr. Rajendra Bahadur Lama presented a detailed progress report of the previous fiscal year (2081/82) along with the proposed policy and program framework for the ongoing year. He highlighted key areas where NMA has made strides, ranging from mountaineering training, safety standards, and environmental protection initiatives to advocacy for climbers’ welfare.
Similarly, Treasurer Ms. Sumi Lama outlined the financial performance of the association. She presented the budget for 2082/83 and shared the audit report for 2081/82, emphasizing fiscal transparency and the effective use of resources to enhance the mountaineering ecosystem.
During the discussion, general members actively participated, offering feedback and constructive suggestions to further refine the NMA’s plans and programs. After a thorough exchange of ideas, the members unanimously endorsed both the reports and budget without any amendments, reflecting strong unity and shared vision within the organization.
Recognizing Top Contributors to Mountain Tourism
The opening session of the AGM began with an award ceremony honoring the top 10 expedition and trekking agencies that made the highest contribution to NMA’s revenue through peak permit sales in FY 2081/82.
The recognized companies included:
- Nord Extreme Himalaya Pvt. Ltd.
- Mera Alpine Treks and Expedition Pvt. Ltd.
- Adventure Everest Team Trek & Expedition Pvt. Ltd.
- Ice Eight Thousand Pvt. Ltd.
- Asian Hiking Team Pvt. Ltd.
- South Col Adventures Pvt. Ltd.
- Seven Summit Treks Pvt. Ltd.
- Satori Adventures Pvt. Ltd.
- Eight K. Expeditions Pvt. Ltd.
- Makalu Adventures Pvt. Ltd.
This recognition served as a gesture of appreciation for their dedication to promoting Nepal as a premier mountaineering destination and supporting sustainable tourism.
Lifetime Service Awards Presented
In a touching moment, NMA honored two of its retired staff members with the Lifetime Service Award for their long-standing dedication and invaluable contributions to the organization.
The recipients were:
- Ms. Radhika Syangwa
- Mr. Shree Narayan Lama
The awards were presented by Mr. Hari Prasad Mainali, Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA), who acknowledged their decades of service to Nepal’s mountaineering community.
Government Pledges Continued Support to NMA
Addressing the gathering, Secretary Hari Prasad Mainali expressed the government’s firm commitment to supporting NMA’s mission of developing mountain tourism. He reassured that all unresolved institutional issues would be addressed promptly and praised the association’s resilience during challenging times.
“We have just endured an extraordinary period of disruption,” he said. “Despite unforeseen challenges, Nepal’s tourism entrepreneurs have shown exceptional perseverance. The government stands ready to assist the NMA in its efforts to elevate mountain tourism and resolve pending matters.”
Mainali also stressed the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors to rebuild trust among climbers and visitors worldwide, particularly after recent global and national disruptions.
Commitment Toward Sustainable Mountain Development
NMA President Mr. Fur Gelje Sherpa reaffirmed his team’s commitment to advancing Nepal’s mountain tourism through focused initiatives in training, rescue operations, and environmental conservation.
“We have numerous proposals aimed at uplifting mountain communities, providing educational support to children of mountaineers lost in the line of duty, and improving welfare services for our members,” President Sherpa stated. “Our vision is to make Nepal a globally trusted and sustainable mountain destination. For this, we seek your continued cooperation and support.”
Stakeholders Emphasize Unity and Collaboration
Dr. Narayan Prasad Regmi, Director General of the Department of Tourism (DoT), highlighted the NMA’s continuous contributions toward enhancing mountaineering standards and pledged full cooperation from the department. “Both the Department and I stand ready to work hand-in-hand with NMA for the betterment of Nepal’s mountain sector,” he assured.
Similarly, Mr. Deepak Raj Joshi, Chief Executive Officer of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), emphasized that collaboration among all tourism bodies is essential to reinforce Nepal’s image as a safe and appealing adventure destination.
NTB Member Mr. Rishi Ram Bhandari and TAAN President Mr. Sagar Pandey echoed this sentiment, stressing that coordinated efforts and public-private partnerships will be crucial in driving recovery and sustainable growth in the coming years.
The 35th AGM concluded on a positive note, reaffirming NMA’s leadership role in strengthening the foundation of Nepal’s mountaineering sector. With renewed commitment from the government, industry leaders, and its own members, the association looks forward to a future of collaboration, innovation, and responsible tourism that honors the spirit of the Himalayas and the people who call them home.
