The Society of Travel and Tour Operators (SOTTO) Nepal, the umbrella organization of travel and tour operators in Nepal, has elected its new leadership. A unanimous executive committee was selected under the chairmanship of Man Bahadur Shahi, director of Far West Travel and Tours Pvt. Ltd. and a tourism entrepreneur from the Sudurpashchim region.

The 15-member executive committee was elected at a general assembly held on Saturday in Kathmandu, under the banner “Collective Voice for Prosperous Tourism.”

In the newly elected committee, Dinesh Basnet has been appointed First Vice-Chair, Madhav Kandel Second Vice-Chair, Kumar Parajuli General Secretary, Kamal Bahadur Magar Secretary, Madhusudan Nepal Treasurer, and Anand Kumar Kshetri Co-Treasurer. Committee members include Bindu Pradhan, Om Joshi, Dasuram Gautam, Anisha Gyawali, Subodh Dhital, Prem Kumar Danuwar, and Sujit Yadav.

Speaking at the event, newly elected Chairman Shahi said that leading SOTTO Nepal is a matter of pride. He stated, “Being elected Chairman of SOTTO Nepal is not only an opportunity to represent the Sudurpashchim region but also a major responsibility to work for the overall interests of Nepalese tourism.” Chairman Shahi emphasized the need for collective efforts for the overall development of the tourism sector, a transparent member selection process, collaboration with the government and stakeholders, and responsible leadership, while committing to focus on destination promotion.

The program also honored Deepakraj Joshi, Chief Executive Officer of the Nepal Tourism Board, former SOTTO Nepal chairpersons, and other distinguished individuals who have contributed to the tourism sector.