Tourism is gaining momentum as a viable livelihood in Nagaland, as emphasized by Senior Tourist Officer S Peter Trakha during a capacity-building and training program held on September 2 in Kiphire. Organized by the Department of Tourism in collaboration with the Nagaland Tourism Association (NTA), the event focused on tour guiding and homestay management and coincided with the Mungmung Festival.
Addressing participants, Trakha highlighted the government’s growing recognition of tourism’s potential to generate significant employment opportunities for the youth. “The department is committed to nurturing sustainable development within tribal communities rather than merely sponsoring activities,” he said, urging participants to contribute meaningfully to the industry.
The program, chaired by Nagaland Association of Tour Operators (NATO) President Kejaroko Pieru, included sessions on the potential of ecotourism in Nagaland. Pieru pointed out that the state’s rich natural and cultural resources could be harnessed to attract tourists, thereby creating jobs and ensuring the industry’s long-term sustainability.
Vimeto Vakha, President of the NTA, delved into the practical aspects of tourism, particularly tour guiding and homestay management. He explained the importance of possessing not only knowledge of local history, culture, and geography but also excellent communication skills to engage tourists effectively. Vakha encouraged participants to consider homestays as a viable business model that could complement the broader tourism industry, offering a steady source of income for local communities.
“Tour guiding and homestay management are professions where one can earn while enjoying the richness of Nagaland’s landscapes and culture,” Vakha said, encouraging participants to embrace continuous learning to adapt to the industry’s evolving demands.
Longtili C Sangtam, a guide from the NTA, shared his experiences and cited the success of local initiatives like Singrep Adventure in Kiphire. He emphasized the importance of learning before earning to build a sustainable revenue model.
The event also included an interactive session where participants sought advice and clarification on various aspects of the tourism industry. The program was inaugurated by K. Aliba Sangtam, President of the United Sangtam Likhum Pümji (USLP), who welcomed the participants and expressed gratitude to the Department of Tourism for bringing such an initiative to Kiphire.
The program saw active participation from youths across various villages in Kiphire district, reflecting the growing interest in tourism as a livelihood opportunity.