23^rd September 2024, Kathmandu: On 23^rd September 2006, a helicopter accident in Ghunsa, Taplejung claimed the lives of 24 Nepali and foreign individuals, including government officials, WWF Nepal leadership and staff, WWF network staff, conservation workers and flight crew. In 2008, the government of Nepal declared 23^rd September as “National Conservation Day” in tribute to the conservation heroes, to be commemorated annually.

This year, an event was organized at the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation (DNPWC) with the attendance of various conservation partners and government officials with Honorable Minister of Forests and Environment, Ms. Rupa BK as the chief guest.

During the event, the honorable minister announced a conservation award amounting to NRS. 3,00,000 to be awarded yearly, on conservation day, to encourage and appreciate individuals working in conservation.
The event also saw the launch of three documents: the Snow Leopard Conservation Action Plan (2024-2030), the Greater One Horned Rhinocerous Action Plan (2024-2034) and  the Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park and Bufferzone Managment Plan (2024-2029)

The newly launched action and management plans are a testament to the commitment of Nepal towards conservation. They provide guidelines to strengthen partnerships, drive holistic conservation, generate robust data, support climate integrated management plans, manage zoonotic diseases, control wildlife crime, enhance transboundary cooperation, support sustainable infrastructure development and more.

The launch of the three documents during an event commemorating the conservation heroes further strengthen the shared spirit of continuing their legacies to continue achieving conservation wins.