Prosperity draft begins from ministry itself: Minister Paudel

Kathmandu, March 27: Newly appointed Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Khadak Raj Paudel, has said the draft of prosperity begins from the ministry itself.     

Assuming the office at ministry on Friday, Minister Paudel said, "Tourism ministry is an area of my interest, but it’s a challenging place."     

Minister Paudel further informed he is a writer and trekker, so familiar with the problems facing tourism sector. "Our works for national prosperity must pick a pace that keeps people in centre," the Minister reminded. He floated a plan of promoting Nepal's tourism by protecting tangible and intangible heritages. Trekking routes would be opened by linking these to every religion.     

The Minister sought cooperation from all employees. "All decisions would be collective. Meritocracy is counted for evaluation of performance," he shared, urging the employees not to act merely as employees but as campaigners.     

According to the Minister, tourism board would be restructured and private sector-friendly atmosphere created. Number of aero planes would be increased for better connectivity. Investment would be made in tourism infrastructures.     

He vowed transparency in each work.     

Ministry Secretary Mukunda Prasad Niraula, department heads and other employees welcomed the minister. Secretary Niraula briefly informed the Minister on ministry's current status, policy and future plans.(RSS)