Chizokho Vero
Kohima, May 23 (MExN): Asserting the North Eastern Region as the tourist hot-spot of the country, Governor Shyamal Datta stressed on the need put utmost effort to turn the region into a marketable commodity.He was speaking at the two day seminar on Cultural Tourism and the Crafts and Textiles of the North East at Hotel Japfu.
The entire North East region possesses huge potential in the field of tourism. He, however said that the region still remains untapped and rarely concentrates on the commercial aspects.
He strongly reminded that the time has come to wake up and make the best use of the potential as a commercial commodity.
Datta also stressed on the need to make proper documentation on various sites, rich cultural heritage and at the same time to adopt comprehensive action plan for its preservation and promotion.
"Nagaland provides a rare insight into the world’s hottest bio-diversity, has unique and colourful people which adds luster to nature, yet tourism is still in a state of infancy in Nagaland,” Datta said.
Touching on the state’s potential, which is blessed with the rich nature, culture and traditions, unique and colourful people, Datta said many things require to be done to harness the potential and the time has come for the people to move to a better position to prosper.
Admitting that resources remain untapped for many reasons, Datta pointed out that it was never too late adding that the time has come for accomplishment through sincerity and commitment.
Welcoming the arrival of INTACH into the state, Datta said that the people have a reason to cheer and celebrate and assured the government’s best support in its task to preserve and promote cultural values in the state. Datta, who is also the chairman of North East Zone Culture Centre (NEZCC) assured fullest co-operation in promoting cultural tourism in the region.
Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by SK Mishra, Chairman, Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage, New Delhi. Khekiye Sema, Secretary Tourism and Art & Culture also addressed the inaugural function. The vote of thanks was proposed by Sentila Yanger, INTACH Convenor, Nagaland.
The potential of cultural tourism in the North East and NE Crafts and Textiles in support of cultural tourism marked session I and II respectively.
Session III and VI on May 24 would touch on “Issues and problems- Finding Solutions” and “Building up infrastructure for tourism.”
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio will address the valedictory function at 3:15 P.M.
