Tourism is among the fastest growing and largest industries in the world today. Countries invest heavily in this sector because it offers far-reaching benefits. Beyond economic gains such as income generation, job creation, and improved livelihoods, tourism also plays a vital role in preserving ecological balance, cultural heritage, and social traditions. Moreover, it helps nations build soft power and enhances their global prestige. While various forms of tourism exist, the challenge of overtourism cannot be overlooked. Mass tourism can sometimes cause environmental damage and cultural erosion. Yet, despite such risks, governments worldwide continue to promote tourism given its proven advantages.
In Nagaland, the government has made visible efforts to promote tourism, despite many challenges. How successful these efforts have been remains open to debate, but there are signs of progress. Tourism products and schemes have been introduced periodically, yet the Department of Tourism has not established offices across all districts. This gap has restricted tourism development, particularly in remote districts such as Mokokchung, where the industry has struggled to take off.
Tourism is a vibrant but vulnerable sector. The Covid-19 pandemic exposed how quickly it can be disrupted. It is also susceptible to natural disasters, political instability, law and order issues, and other unforeseen factors. Lack of proper infrastructure is another challenge.
In Mokokchung, the recent declaration of Chungtia as a tourist village is a positive move. While every village has unique tourism potential, official recognition can provide leverage for development. However, without consistent support and delivery from the tourism department, such recognitions risk being merely symbolic. Village communities can contribute, but their efforts have limits.
Furthermore, the absence of tour operators and travel agents in Mokokchung highlights the concentration of tourism activities around Kohima. In this context, it would benefit Mokokchung’s stakeholders to form a formal tourism industry forum. This would allow them to collectively address challenges, explore new opportunities, and engage with government agencies more effectively. Such cooperation could play a crucial role in advancing Nagaland’s tourism sector and ensuring balanced growth throughout the state.
