Kathmandu, Aug 1: The ‘tourism police training’ has commenced with the aim of providing specialized services to foreign tourists in Nepal. The 18-day training program, conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation; Tourism Police Office, Bhrikutimandap; and Nepal Tourism and Hotel Management Institute, commenced in Kathmandu.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Ministry Secretary Bharat Mani Subedi, who expressed hope that the training would serve as a significant platform to equip personnel with the skills necessary to provide special services to foreign tourists. The training aims to enhance the professional capacity of the tourism police, enabling them to play a crucial role in maintaining the unique identity of the country and its people. Secretary Subedi also emphasized that the concept of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ (Guest is God) will be further promoted through this initiative.

Deputy Inspector General of Nepal Police and Director of the National Police Academy, Rabindra KC, lauded the efforts of the tourism police in ensuring the security of tourists despite facing constraints in terms of resources. He encouraged the trainees to be dedicated to their work and contribute to bolstering the country’s image.

Hom Prasad Luitel, Director General at the Tourism Department, highlighted the vital role of the tourism sector in boosting the country’s economic activities and emphasized the linkage between the tourism police and the sector.

Ajay Kumar Dhakal, Chief of the Travel and Research Department at Nepal Tourism and Hotel Management Institute, believed that the training would be a significant milestone in the development and promotion of tourism. A total of 30 police personnel are participating in this training program.