Jul 19, Kathmandu - In the Federal Parliament, the 'Tourism Bill, 2081' has attracted significant attention as 58 Members of Parliament (MPs) have registered a total of 263 proposed amendments. The Speaker of the House, Dolprasad Aryal, approved these amendments in accordance with Rule 114 of the Parliamentary Rules of Procedure, 2083.

The proposed amendments encompass a broad spectrum of critical issues, including the restructuring of Nepal's tourism sector, the formulation of a sustainable mountaineering policy, environmental conservation, and the integration of digital technology.

Among the key proposals is the suggestion to abolish or restructure the current Tourism Department and establish an autonomous 'Nepal Tourism Authority' dedicated to promotion, regulation, certification, consumer protection, and sustainability, with the ministry providing only policy guidance.

MP Sumnima Udas emphasized the need for an independent and empowered authority responsible for all aspects of tourism promotion and regulation. Similarly, MP Kulbhakta Shakya proposed implementing a one-door system to streamline permits, registrations, renewals, and services related to tourism.

To ensure the safety and organized management of mountain expeditions and adventure tourism, MP Sushil Khadka proposed establishing an integrated inspection checkpoint at the base camps under the leadership of the Nepali Army. This initiative aims to enhance climber safety, environmental management, and curb illegal activities on mountains.

Environmental protection in mountain and trekking regions gained prominence as MPs Kamal Subedi and Manish Jha called for strict legal measures, including the implementation of a zero-waste policy in high-altitude areas. Their proposal includes QR coding and digital tracking for all materials taken by climbers, mandating their mandatory return.

Lima Adhikari proposed banning single-use plastics in mountain regions and imposing strict penalties on violators. Additionally, MPs Khusbu Oli and Manish Jha suggested allocating at least 30-40% of royalties from mountaineering activities to local authorities and mountain community development funds.

Ganesh Karki emphasized the importance of protecting indigenous knowledge and arts of tribal and local communities, advocating for copyright and economic rights when developing tourism products based on their traditional resources.

These amendments reflect a comprehensive push towards modernizing Nepal’s tourism industry, emphasizing environmental sustainability, community benefits, safety, and digital integration.