Tourism Development In Northeast Should Take Into Account Sensitive Ecosystem: Secretary Vidyavathi

Three-day “International Tourism Mart” was held in Meghalaya’s Shillong to discuss the various issues pertaining to the development and growth of tourism in the northeastern region.

Secretary of Union Ministry of Tourism, V Vidyavathi.

Source : X@PIB_India

New Delhi: The Secretary of Union Ministry of Tourism, V Vidyavathi, on Wednesday said development of tourism in the northeast should take into account the sensitive ecosystem of the region. Vidyavathi was speaking at the Business Session on the second day of a three-day tourism conclave. 

Three-day “International Tourism Mart” was held in Meghalaya’s Shillong to discuss the various issues pertaining to the development and growth of tourism in the northeastern region.

Representatives of all the eight northeastern states spoke on new tourist destinations as well as new opportunities in their respective states. Knowledge sessions and panel discussions with representatives both from the government and private sectors discussed on the development of connectivity in the region, as per a press release.

Addressing the meeting, Vidyavathi said the northeastern region occupies a unique place in terms of natural beauty and tourism resources.

“This region offers geographical diversity which provides great scope for adventure tourism. The Union Ministry of Tourism has formulated a national strategy for adventure tourism and has constituted a National Board for Adventure Tourism to guide the operationalisation and implementation of the strategy to promote and develop adventure tourism in the country,” Vidyavathi said.

Vidyavathi further urged the northeastern states to proactively take part in the efforts to boost safety in adventure sports in the country, including the northeast. 

“The Union Ministry of Tourism has drafted the adventure tourism model law which covers the obligations, institutional framework, penalties, registration, and the provision of insurance. It has been circulated to all the states and Union Territories for feedback,” Vidyavathi added. 

Vidyavathi also informed that keeping in mind the increasing trend for experiential tourism, the Union Ministry of Tourism has formulated a national strategy for the promotion of rural homestays as it not only provides the tourists with an opportunity of alternative forms of accommodation but also promotes inclusive development by generating entrepreneurial and job opportunities for the local communities.