The second and final day of the Nagaland International Conference on Tourism, Transport & Logistics (NICTTL) 2025 concluded successfully at Town Hall, Zone Niathu by the Park, Chümoukedima, reinforcing key strategies for strengthening regional collaboration, cross-border trade, and sustainable tourism. Organized by the Business Association of Nagas (BAN), the conference convened policymakers, industry leaders, international dignitaries, and business stakeholders to drive economic growth through enhanced connectivity and responsible tourism practices.
Cross-border trade and connectivity
The morning session featured a high-impact panel discussion on logistics and transport cross-border collaboration, moderated by Inoto Kinimi, convenor of logistics and transport at BAN. Panelists included P Tokugha Sema, director of industries and commerce, Government of Nagaland; a representative from the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland (IDAN); Subrata Biswas, regional head (East) of Blue Dart; Ryuta Saito, second secretary at the Embassy of Japan, New Delhi; and Garab Dorji, chairman of the Guides Association of Bhutan (GAB), Thimphu. Discussions emphasized enhancing trade connectivity, improving transport infrastructure, and fostering cross-border collaboration to unlock economic opportunities between Nagaland, Bhutan, and other South Asian markets.
Entrepreneur Empowerment: Unlocking growth for local businesses
The second session, focused on entrepreneurial empowerment, was moderated by Benthungo Kithan, convenor of MSME at BAN. Experts from leading financial institutions shared insights on leveraging government schemes and digital market access to empower Nagaland’s entrepreneurs. Key participants included representatives from the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME), Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), State Bank of India (SBI), National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC), and Government e-Marketplace (GeM). A special emphasis was placed on SC/ST entrepreneurial schemes, financial inclusion, and capacity-building initiatives to support business growth in underserved communities.
Adventure Tourism: A sustainable and carbon-neutral future
The afternoon panel on adventure tourism, with an emphasis on carbon neutrality, brought together experts in eco-tourism and adventure travel, including Poonch, a cycling tourism advocate; Yanpvuo Kikon, a mountain biking expert; and Senthungo Ovung, a 4×4 off-road adventure enthusiast. Discussions highlighted Nagaland’s untapped potential for adventure tourism, focusing on sustainability and carbon-neutral initiatives to drive responsible travel while preserving the region’s ecological balance.
Zubeno Mozhui, convenor of NICTTL and standing committee member on tourism at BAN, led the closing session, stressing the need for robust infrastructure, international collaboration, and policy-driven sustainable tourism initiatives. Thangi Mannen, advisor to BAN’s tourism committee and former secretary of the Department of Tourism, Government of Nagaland, outlined the conference’s key takeaways, which set the roadmap for future action.
There was a call for responsible tourism through sustainability education in schools and a code of conduct for tourists and service providers in line with India’s National Strategy for Sustainable Tourism. Proposals were made for an Eco-Tourism Board to oversee policies and engage stakeholders. A collaboration with Green Hub was announced to support community-led eco-tourism initiatives.
Japan expressed interest in business and entrepreneurship exchange programs, while Bhutan committed to joint training for tour guides and business networking. Blue Dart discussed last-mile delivery solutions to improve employment opportunities in remote areas.
NICTTL 2025 Awards
The conference also recognized contributions to tourism and conservation. Advisor TN Mannen presented awards to:
· Naga Bivouac (founded by Neikedolie) – Best Tour Operator
· The Majestic Kapamodzu (founded by Rekha Rose Dukru) – Best Eco-Friendly Resort
· Lemsachenlok Society (led by Nuklu Phom) – Best Community Conservation Practices
· Hebamlo (by Green Hub & Royal Enfield) – Special Citation
Ameto Peseyie, in his vote of thanks, acknowledged the contributions of speakers, delegates, and sponsors, stating that NICTTL 2025 had laid the groundwork for sustainable tourism, improved logistics, and better opportunities for entrepreneurs in Nagaland.
The Nagaland International Conference on Tourism, Transport & Logistics (NICTTL) is an annual event hosted by the Business Association of Nagas (BAN). It serves as a platform for policymakers and business leaders to explore opportunities in tourism, transport, and trade.
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