Kathmandu: The Rinpoche Nawang Tenzing Lama Environment Conservation Award was presented to Dr. Ramchandra Kandel, the Director General of the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation.
According to National News Agency Nepal, the award ceremony was organized by the Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon. National Assembly Member Sonam Gyalzen Sherpa handed over the award to Dr. Kandel, which includes a monetary prize of Rs 307,777 and a letter of appreciation.
During the ceremony, NA Member Sherpa highlighted the significance of Mt. Sagarmatha and the Khumbu region, emphasizing their status as integral parts of the national park. Sherpa expressed a strong stance against protests targeting national parks, underscoring the necessity of preserving these areas to protect the environment. He urged stakeholders to focus on advancing conservation initiatives for the benefit of future generations.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Kandel emphasized the importance of community partnerships in conservation efforts. He announced his intention to use the award money to support conservation activities through an organization dedicated to such work.
Bikram Pandey Kaaji, the Founder Chairman of Everest Marathon, noted that the award was established to promote efforts in trekking, marathon activities, and environmental conservation.