Tourism Minister Poudel Calls for Reform and Innovation in Nepal's Tourism Sector

Kathmandu. Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Khadgaraj Poudel has stated that reforms are essential in the tourism sector. Speaking at a welcome program organized by the Nepal Tourism Board on Monday, he emphasized that with the change in government, there must also be a transformation in working styles.

Minister Poudel stated that the commitment of all stakeholders is necessary to make Nepal competitive in the global market through quality enhancement, innovation, and sustainable planning in the tourism sector. He remarked that since tourism is a key pillar for Nepal's development, plans must be advanced accordingly.

Minister Poudel emphasized the need to move beyond traditional forms and practices of tourism promotion and launch innovation-driven campaigns. He stated that work in the tourism sector must yield results, and the government is committed to providing policy facilitation for that purpose.

Minister Poudel asserted that he will not engage in politics of vendetta and will encourage those who perform. He said, “I respect those who do good work, but if necessary, I am prepared to take tough decisions against those who perform poorly.”

Nepal Tourism Board CEO Deepak Raj Joshi provided information regarding the overall structure, programs, and policy direction of the tourism sector. He stated that the Tourism Board has put forward a strategy to strongly promote Nepal in the international market through a public-private partnership model.

“We are moving forward with programs and plans to make tourism promotion effective by further strengthening coordination between the government and the private sector,” said CEO Joshi.