Itanagar, Mar 11: Governor Lt General (Retd) KT Parnaik on Wednesday urged tour operators in the state to play a proactive role in promoting sustainable and responsible tourism with a strong focus on community participation and skill development.
Interacting with representatives of the North East India Tourism Confederation and the Arunachal Pradesh Tour Operators Association at Lok Bhavan here, the Governor emphasised the need to prioritise sustainable tourism practices, community engagement, development of adventure tourism, skill training and strategic promotion of the state’s tourism potential.
He said tour operator organisations can play a crucial role in developing sustainable, responsible and community-based tourism while enhancing the overall experience of visitors.
Highlighting the importance of eco-friendly tourism, the Governor stressed that tourism activities must safeguard the fragile Himalayan ecosystem of the state. He encouraged tour operators to actively promote homestays and village tourism so that local communities directly benefit from tourism and become partners in the sector’s growth.
Parnaik also underscored the state government’s vision of strengthening a tourism-driven economy while preserving forests, rivers, cultural heritage and traditional lifestyles for future generations.
Observing that Arunachal Pradesh holds immense potential for trekking, mountaineering, river rafting, wildlife tourism and mountain expeditions, the Governor advised tour operators to design innovative adventure packages, explore new trekking routes and train local guides to attract both domestic and international adventure enthusiasts.
“Expanding trekking and expedition opportunities in remote areas will help boost tourism and generate meaningful employment for local youth,” he said.
The Governor also highlighted the need for capacity building and skill development in the tourism sector. He suggested that tour operator organisations regularly organise training programmes for guides, drivers, homestay owners and hospitality workers to improve service standards.
Additionally, he encouraged tour operators to collaborate with government agencies in promoting the state through digital marketing, participation in travel fairs, influencer campaigns and well-curated tour packages to attract a wider range of visitors.
The meeting was attended by North East India Tourism Confederation vice president Tsering Wange along with members of the Arunachal Pradesh Tour Operators Association, including Yomjum Yomgam and Menbi Riddi.