Nagaland joined the global community in observing United Nations World Tourism Day on Saturday at the Directorate of Tourism conference hall in Kohima on the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.”
Special guest Arenla Jamir, Commissioner and Secretary of Tourism, underlined the vast tourism potential of Nagaland, citing its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and biodiversity. She said that events like the Hornbill Festival had already placed Nagaland on the global tourism map and stressed that tourism should not only be about taking from a place but also about giving back to the people, the land, and the culture.
Jamir highlighted that sustainable tourism could empower rural communities, generate livelihoods, and preserve cultural identity, while cautioning that unchecked growth could lead to environmental degradation, cultural dilution, and inequality. She outlined departmental initiatives such as community-based tourism, eco-camps, skill development for youth as cultural ambassadors, eco-tourism projects with strict ecological safeguards, and digital promotion using virtual reality. She added that partnerships with NGOs and international agencies were being pursued to align Nagaland’s strategies with global sustainability goals.
Calling sustainable transformation a collective responsibility, Jamir urged communities, private stakeholders, NGOs, and tourists to work alongside the government. She encouraged youth to become cultural entrepreneurs and custodians of tradition, while inviting visitors to explore Nagaland with “open hearts and responsible intentions.”
A highlight of the programme was the recognition of Khonoma, India’s first Green Village, under the UN Tourism Best Tourism Villages Upgrade Programme 2022. Neikedolie Hiekha, chairman of the Khonoma Upgrade Programme, recalled the village’s conservation efforts including a hunting ban, forest preservation, and the establishment of the Tragopan Sanctuary, which had transformed Khonoma into a model of conservation-based livelihoods.
The event also featured 2024 Best Tour Operator Award winner Nino Zhasa, who spoke on community-led tourism in Kigwema, and contributions from Diezephe Craft Village, which won the Ministry of Tourism’s Best Tourism Village in India (Bronze category) 2023.
During the programme, the official website of the Department of Tourism was launched. Awards were presented to recognise excellence in the tourism sector, with Majestic Kapamodzu in Phek district receiving the award for Best Eco-friendly Accommodation, the Kigwema Tourism Board for Best Tourism Sustainability Practices, and The Experience Naga Kitchen for Best Innovation in Sustainable Tourism.
Competitions in essay writing, art, and reels engaged students and youth. Winners included Keduo-o Kerhüo of Kohima Science College in the college-level essay competition, Sedevinuo of Mezhur Higher Secondary School in the art competition, and Cievito Rhakho in the reels competition. Certificates of Appreciation were also awarded to content creators promoting tourism in Nagaland.
The programme was chaired by Additional Director T. Kakihe Sumi, with the UNWTO message delivered by Assistant Director Vilika Zhimomi. Short speeches, cultural performances, and recognition of awardees rounded out the event.
Rio reaffirms commitment to sustainable tourism
Extending his greetings on the occasion, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio reaffirmed that Nagaland is committed to promoting tourism that preserves heritage, empowers communities, and sustains the future.
In a social media post, Rio said that with its rich culture, vibrant festivals, and beautiful landscapes, Nagaland proudly aligns with this year’s theme, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.” Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton added that the occasion is also a time to reflect on the value of travel in connecting people and sharing traditions.
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