Annapurna at 75: French Embassy Hosts Documentary Screening and Panel on Mountain Conservation

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EDUCAST, As part of the ongoing celebration marking the 75th anniversary of the first ascent of Annapurna by Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal, the French Embassy and the Alliance Française organized a special screening of the documentary “Annapurna, History of a Conquest” by Bernard George on April 23, 2025.

The screening was followed by a panel discussion titled “Mountain Matters: Sustaining the Spirit of Mountains”, conducted in Nepali and moderated by journalist Ms. Sama Thapa. The distinguished panel included Mr. Jérôme Édou, founder of Base Camp Trek and Tibetologist; Ms. Kalpana Maharjan, mountaineer and journalist; Mr. Mingma Chhiri Sherpa, Chairperson of Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality; and Mr. Tul Singh Gurung, President of the Nepal National Mountain Guide Association (NNMGA).

The discussion centered on the urgent need for government initiatives to mitigate climate change effects in mountain regions. Panelists stressed reducing carbon emissions, promoting renewable energy, and protecting fragile glacier ecosystems. They called for stronger enforcement of laws against pollution and encroachment, and public education campaigns about mountain conservation.

Emphasis was also placed on empowering local communities through eco-friendly tourism and agriculture, encouraging responsible climbing practices, and officially recognizing mountain regions as protected environmental zones.

The event brought together mountaineering enthusiasts, environmentalists, journalists, and diplomats, united by a shared commitment to preserving the spirit and sustainability of Nepal’s majestic mountains.