Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) presidential candidate Kul Bahadur Gurung has unveiled his flagship initiative, the “Clean Himalaya Campaign,” ahead of the upcoming NMA elections scheduled for Bhadra 7. Addressing a candidate introduction program held this evening, Gurung emphasized that long-term waste management from base camps to climbing routes would be his top priority if elected as the association’s president.
Focus on Effective Waste Management and Deposit Refund System
Gurung highlighted the importance of implementing practical, efficient, and sustainable waste management strategies. He also stressed reforming the current system for returning climbing waste deposit fees, ensuring that mountaineers adhere to responsible practices. The candidate underscored that strict enforcement of green guidelines would be a key initiative, not only to maintain the pristine condition of the Himalayas but also to convey Nepal’s commitment to combating climate change on an international platform.
Promoting Nepal’s Leadership in Climate Diplomacy
According to Gurung, the campaign will also focus on positioning Nepal as a leader in climate diplomacy. By showcasing responsible mountain tourism and sustainable mountaineering practices, Gurung aims to deliver strong messages regarding climate change impacts to the international community. National and international engagement will be integral to advancing Nepal’s leadership role in environmental stewardship and sustainable mountain tourism policies.
Empowering Local Communities and Tourism Stakeholders
Gurung emphasized prioritizing local products, services, and manpower in mountaineering-related activities. He plans to promote lesser-known peaks and off-season destinations to ensure equitable tourism benefits. Furthermore, Gurung outlined proposals to provide training, insurance, healthcare, legal assistance, and social security for guides, Sherpas, and high-altitude workers, ensuring their welfare and professional development.
Support for Families of Deceased Mountaineers
Highlighting social responsibility, Gurung stated that his proposed initiatives would include special pensions, endowments, scholarships, vocational training, and income-generating skill development programs for families of mountaineers who have lost their lives during expeditions. These measures aim to provide long-term support and ensure the well-being of affected families.
Establishment and Upgradation of Training and Research Centers
Gurung announced plans to establish new mountaineering training and research institutions. Existing centers, such as the Manang Mountaineering Training School, Annapurna Rescue Center, and Kakani International Mountaineering Memorial Park, will be upgraded to higher standards. These improvements aim to strengthen the infrastructure for mountaineering training, rescue operations, and research, contributing to both safety and skill development for climbers and support staff.
Expanding Training and Rescue Centers Across the Himalayas
In addition to upgrading existing institutions, Gurung plans to establish new training and rescue centers in other Himalayan regions. Special initiatives for women mountaineers, international scholarships for youth, and skill development programs are also planned. Collaborating with provincial and local governments, as well as relevant stakeholders, Gurung intends to implement infrastructure and training programs to enhance regional mountaineering capacity.
International Promotion and Annual Mountain Festival
Gurung stressed that the campaign would promote Nepal’s mountains internationally through global publicity and strategic marketing. He proposed organizing an annual International Himalaya Festival to highlight Nepal’s mountaineering heritage and natural beauty, attracting global attention and fostering tourism growth.
Complete NMA Electoral Team
Gurung’s electoral team includes experienced and reputed figures in Nepal’s mountaineering community. From his group, senior vice president candidate is Tikaram Gurung, first vice president candidate is Mingma Gyabu Sherpa, second vice president candidate is Dhan Bahadur Gurung, and general secretary candidate is Bimal Kumar Naharki. Additionally, Dima Diki Sherpa is contesting for secretary, and Sumi Lama for treasurer.
The team’s member candidates include Pushkar Shah, Bal Bahadur Suyal, Madhav Prasad Pandey, Harigopal Pradhan, Sudansh Lama, Lal Bahadur Jirel, Nurbu Chhiring Sherpa, Pasang Sherpa, and Ashok Kumar Tamang. Gurung’s campaign emphasizes a collective approach, integrating community welfare, sustainable tourism, and mountaineering development into the electoral platform.
Commitment to Sustainable and Responsible Mountaineering
Gurung’s “Clean Himalaya Campaign” reflects a comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and tourism promotion. By prioritizing waste management, equitable tourism benefits, and climber welfare, the campaign seeks to strengthen Nepal’s position as a global leader in responsible mountaineering. Gurung’s proposals align with broader goals of sustainable development, climate change mitigation, and community empowerment.
As the NMA elections approach on Bhadra 7, Kul Bahadur Gurung’s initiatives signal a forward-looking vision for Nepal’s mountaineering sector. His focus on sustainable practices, climber welfare, local empowerment, and international promotion highlights a commitment to preserving the Himalayas while ensuring inclusive benefits for all stakeholders. The candidate’s platform offers a blueprint for responsible mountaineering, combining environmental, social, and economic objectives to advance Nepal’s leadership in the global mountaineering community.
