Itanagar

K. T. Parnaik, Governor of Arunachal Pradesh, on Wednesday urged tour operators to play a proactive role in promoting sustainable and responsible tourism in the state.

Interacting with representatives of the North East India Tourism Confederation and the Arunachal Pradesh Tour Operators Association at Lok Bhavan, the governor stressed the need to focus on sustainable tourism practices, community participation, development of adventure tourism, skill training and strategic promotion.

“These initiatives will boost tourism, create employment opportunities, preserve the rich cultural heritage and ensure balanced development across Arunachal Pradesh,” he said, according to an official report.

Parnaik said tour operator organisations in the state can play a crucial role in developing sustainable, responsible and community-based tourism while improving the overall experience for visitors.

He emphasised the importance of adopting eco-friendly tourism practices to protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem of the state.

At the same time, the governor encouraged operators to promote homestays and village tourism so that local communities directly benefit from tourism activities and become partners in the sector’s growth.

Highlighting the state government’s vision, Parnaik said Arunachal Pradesh is committed to strengthening its tourism-driven economy in a responsible manner while preserving its forests, rivers, culture and heritage for future generations.

He noted that the state has immense potential for trekking, mountaineering, river rafting, wildlife tourism and mountain expeditions.

In this context, he advised tour operators to design innovative adventure tourism packages, develop new trekking routes and train local guides to attract both domestic and international adventure enthusiasts.

“Expanding trekking and expedition opportunities in remote areas will help boost tourism and create meaningful employment for local youth,” he said.

Stressing the importance of capacity building in the tourism sector, Parnaik suggested that tour operator organisations regularly conduct training programmes for guides, drivers, homestay owners and hospitality workers to improve service standards.

He also advised operators to collaborate with government agencies in promoting the state through digital marketing, travel fairs, influencer campaigns and curated tour packages to attract a wider range of visitors.

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Among those present at the meeting were Tsering Wange, vice-president of the North East India Tourism Confederation, and members of the Arunachal Pradesh Tour Operators Association, including Yomjum Yomgam and Menbi Riddi.