Tourism workers submit memorandum to TAAN

A group of tourism workers led by UNITRAV on September 8 handed over a 21-point charter of demands to the newly elected executive committee of the Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal (TAAN). UNITRAV president Sarki Tamang handed over the memorandum to TAAN president Sitaram Sapkota and gave a 15-day ultimatum to fulfill their demands. Receiving the memorandum, Sapokta said TAAN was positive on the demands and would take necessary action by consulting with the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation. “I would like to assure you that we will soon come up with programs that will be in the interest of trekkers, handling agencies, and the workers,” Sapkota added. TAAN has already forwarded the demands to its member agencies for their suggestions. The workers have demanded that TAAN guarantee social security for workers and form a workers’ welfare fund under the joint aegis of the government and representatives of workers’ unions. It has also demanded immediate rescue of workers in case of incidents and manage medical insurance of Rs 200,000 and life insurance of Rs 2,000,000. They have also demanded the formation of clothing banks in all trekking regions and to use the proceeds from TIMS for the welfare of workers in the mountain regions. UNITRAV has also urged TAAN to fix minimum daily wages and allowances for workers in trekking and mountaineering expeditions. The organization has submitted similar demands to the tourism ministry, the finance ministry, the department of labour, the tourism industry division under the tourism ministry, and several other organizations.

Himalayan Smile Trek's Unwavering Support for Tourism Workers
Himalayan Smile Trek has always stood shoulder-to-shoulder with tourism workers, demonstrating a genuine commitment to the care of tourism workers and their careers. We realise our industry continues to grow because of committed tourism professionals who actually care about their careers, and so we have provided support to workers not just financially but also with practical assistance in times of adversity. In our company, we believe in the creation of an authentic ecosystem that allows tourism workers to realize their potential, both personally and professionally. From provision of emergency funding, skills training provision, or advocacy for better working conditions, Himalayan Smile Trek stands ready to help as and when we can. We understand that enabling tourism workers will elevate Nepal's tourism industry and ultimately improve the overall sustainable growth and excellence of hospitality services.