Kathmandu - The Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation has appointed Senior Director Hikmat Singh Ayer as the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB). The decision was made on Monday following a recent government change in leadership.

The position became vacant after the previous CEO, Deepak Raj Joshi, was removed from his post following a new government ordinance. To ensure that the board's work continues without interruption, the ministry chose Ayer to lead the office based on his seniority and long-term experience.

Ensuring Business as Usual

The Ministry issued a formal letter stating that Ayer will now handle the daily administration, policy implementation, and coordination of tourism promotion programs. This appointment is intended to keep the board’s regular activities running smoothly until a permanent CEO is selected.

Ayer is a well-known figure within the tourism industry. Having served as a Senior Director for many years, he has extensive experience in managing both administrative tasks and large-scale tourism projects.

Industry Reactions

Leaders in the tourism sector have reacted positively to the news. Many believe that Ayer’s experience will help maintain stability within the board during this transition. Stakeholders expect that under his leadership, the board will prioritize strengthening Nepal's presence in international markets while keeping internal management efficient.

With several international promotional events and the "Wellness Tourism Year" initiatives on the horizon, Ayer's role will be crucial in ensuring Nepal remains a top destination for travelers.