Arunachal Pradesh: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lieutenant General KT Parnaik (Retd.) has asked tour operators to lead sustainable and responsible tourism efforts across the state.
Speaking to representatives of the North East India Tourism Confederation and the Arunachal Pradesh Tour Operators Association at Lok Bhavan, he emphasized community involvement, adventure tourism development, skills training, and targeted promotion.
He said, “These initiatives will boost tourism and create employment opportunities, preserve the rich cultural heritage, and ensure balanced development across Arunachal Pradesh.”
The Governor emphasized the operators’ ability to promote eco-friendly practices that protect the state’s sensitive Himalayan environment. He urged the promotion of homestays and village tourism so that local people can directly benefit from this sector.
Parnaik linked his remarks to the state government’s goal of building a responsible tourism economy that protects forests, rivers, culture, and heritage. He said that Arunachal Pradesh offers immense scope for trekking, mountaineering, river rafting, wildlife safaris, and expeditions.
He advised operators to develop new adventure packages, open new trekking trails in remote areas, and train local guides to attract domestic and foreign visitors. He further stated, “Increasing trekking and expedition opportunities in remote areas will boost tourism and create good employment for local youth.”
Capacity building is essential, including regular training for guides, drivers, homestay hosts, and hospitality staff, to raise standards. Operators should partner with government agencies on digital marketing, travel fairs, influencer drives, and special packages to increase appeal.
Those who attended included North East India Tourism Confederation Vice-President Tsering Wange and Arunachal Pradesh Tour Operators Association members Yomjum Yomgam and Menbi Riddi.
