Kathmandu: Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pandey, announced the government's plan to create a welfare fund aimed at ensuring social security and promoting mountaineering.

Speaking at a felicitation program in Kathmandu on Sunday, Minister Pandey honored renowned climbers, including Phunjo Jhangmu Lama, who set a record by summiting Mount Everest in just 14 hours and 31 minutes. The event, organized by Chumnubri Rural Municipality of Gorkha, celebrated Lama's extraordinary achievement and the contributions of other mountaineers.

During the program, the Minister emphasized the significance of supporting climbers through a dedicated welfare fund, which will address their social security needs and encourage the growth of Nepal's mountaineering sector.

Other celebrated mountaineers, including Mingmar Tshering Lama, Nangsel Chhodon Lama, Nanu Maya Gurung, Diki Lhamu Lama, and Yukta Gurung, were also honored for their remarkable feats.

The initiative reflects the government's commitment to recognizing the contributions of climbers who have elevated Nepal's global reputation in mountaineering and adventure tourism.