Guwahati, February 17: A significant conference on tourism development convened at Nedfi House in Guwahati on February 12, 2024, aimed at promoting the tourism sector in the North East. Diverse issues pertaining to tourism were discussed, focusing on sustainable practices to boost the industry.
The conference was organized by Ms. Sangeeta Saikia, editor of NE Focus, she discussed about the tourism and the various issues related to tourism.
Various key figures attended the event, including Mr. Anil Oraw, Regional Director, Government of India, Guwahati; Mr. Utpal Baruah, Chief Officer, Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport; Mr. Amitabh Dey, Principal, Institute of Hotel Management; Mr. Tridip Sarma, President, Hotel and Restaurant Association; Mrs. Sapna Medhi, Lecturer and resource person from Sonapur College Tourism Department; Mr. Arijit Purkayastha, Director and Tourism Consultant; Dr. Sarat Saikia, Senior Agricultural Scientist, and Sanjay Sharma.
The discussions highlighted the potential of promoting tourism by preserving nature, promoting local cuisine and traditions, and transforming villages into tourist destinations. However, it was emphasized that a long-term plan should be adopted by the government for effective results.
Trideep Sharma, a consultant from the Hotel and Restaurant Association, emphasized responsible tourism and coexistence with nature, pointing out the positive economic impact that tourism can have on local communities.
Arijit Purkayastha shed light on Assam’s hidden gems, urging the showcasing of lesser-known destinations to the world. He emphasized the importance of each destination having a unique story, making the traveler’s journey as interesting as the destination itself.
Swapna Medhi, a lecturer at Sonapur College, shared insights on responsible tourism leading to a sustainable future. Drawing from experience working with rural communities, Medhi stressed the need to consider the grassroots level in tourism planning.
Ranjit Das, a seminar moderator, concluded the session by underlining the importance of prioritizing the well-being and interests of local communities for sustainable tourism. He stated, “We must develop tourism with the concept of respecting nature, respecting culture, and respecting the hosts.”
Retired senior officer Moushum Hazarika highlighted the untapped potential of the North East, beyond its known natural elements. He pointed out that tea tourism could emerge as a significant sector within agritourism.
In summary, the conference provided a platform to explore sustainable tourism practices, focusing on responsible tourism, local community involvement, and the showcasing of the North East’s diverse attractions to the world.
