Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu Advocates for Sustainable Tourism on World Tourism Day
Itanagar (Arunachal Pradesh) [India], September 27: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism during a program in Itanagar on World Tourism Day. He stated, “We do not want crowds. Crowds produce garbage and pollution. We want sustainable tourism while preserving our rich biodiversity. High-end tourism, in line with Bhutan, is the only way forward.”
Khandu urged prioritizing the “Dekho Apna Desh” initiative over foreign travel, highlighting the state’s unique culture, hills, forests, and biodiversity. He said, “Dekho Apna Desh should be the first agenda on our bucket list. Visiting foreign countries should be second.”
To diversify tourism, Khandu assured the development of infrastructure for adventure sports like trekking, rafting, angling, paragliding, and rock climbing. He mentioned collaboration with the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS) to offer certificate courses for the youth.
Khandu called on the youth to take advantage of the UNNATI scheme, which allocates significant funds for tourism in the Northeast, including Rs 900 crores for Arunachal Pradesh. He also noted that the Union budget has provided Rs 250 crore for infrastructure development in tourism for the state.
The state government has launched its own ‘Dekho Apna Pradesh’ campaign, organizing six tours for tourism stakeholders. Khandu observed that many locals have not explored their own state but have visited foreign countries. He insisted that people should first explore their own state and country.
To leverage the state’s tourism potential, the government will soon notify a new Tourism Policy, including film, farm, wine, and eco-tourism, and a homestay policy. This policy aims to preserve local culture and heritage through community involvement and showcase local champions.
Khandu reiterated the importance of promoting high-end, niche tourism, considering the ecological carrying capacity of high-tourism potential locations. He cautioned that uncontrolled tourism could adversely affect the state’s culture, biodiversity, and environment.
Social media influencers promoting Arunachal Pradesh as a tourist destination were felicitated on the occasion.
Doubts Revealed
Arunachal Pradesh -: Arunachal Pradesh is a state in the northeastern part of India. It is known for its beautiful mountains and forests.
CM -: CM stands for Chief Minister. The Chief Minister is the head of the government in an Indian state.
Pema Khandu -: Pema Khandu is the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh. He is a leader who helps make important decisions for the state.
Sustainable Tourism -: Sustainable tourism means traveling in a way that does not harm the environment and helps local people. It is about being responsible while enjoying nature and culture.
World Tourism Day -: World Tourism Day is celebrated on September 27th every year. It is a day to recognize the importance of tourism and how it can help people and places.
Itanagar -: Itanagar is the capital city of Arunachal Pradesh. It is where the government offices and important events are held.
Biodiversity -: Biodiversity means the variety of plants, animals, and other living things in a place. It is important to keep this variety to maintain a healthy environment.
Dekho Apna Desh -: Dekho Apna Desh is an initiative by the Indian government to encourage people to travel within India and explore its beauty and culture.
Adventure Sports Infrastructure -: Adventure sports infrastructure refers to the facilities and equipment needed for activities like rock climbing, rafting, and trekking. It helps people enjoy these sports safely.
Tourism Policy -: A Tourism Policy is a plan made by the government to promote and manage tourism in a region. It includes rules and guidelines to help tourism grow in a good way.
UNNATI scheme -: The UNNATI scheme is a program by the Indian government to help young people get training and jobs. It aims to improve their skills and provide better opportunities.