DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 28 (MExN): ‘Destination North East’ 2020, an annual event for promoting tourism in North Eastern Region of India, was inaugurated on September 27 through a virtual platform. Organized on the theme ‘Emerging Delightful Destinations’, the event is being held from September 27 to 30.
The inaugural event was graced by Amit Shah, Union Minister of Home Affairs; Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER); the Chief Ministers of the North Eastern States; Dr Inderjit Singh, Secretary DoNER; Members NEC Prof Biman Kumar Dutta and Air Marshal Anjan Kumar Gogoi; K Moses Chalai, Secretary NEC and others.
Setting the tone with the theme song ‘This is the land and its people’ by Shillong band ‘Summer Salt,’ the inaugural programme also witnessed Choir Presentations by Voice of Nagaland & Cardinal Choir from Mizoram besides an audio visual presentation on the tourism themes and cultural mosaic of North East India.
While delivering the welcome address, Secretary NEC indicated that even under difficult circumstances, it was decided to go ahead with the programme with the belief that the event will spark a renewal in the Tourism sector of the NE Region. In his speech, Secretary DoNER informed that previously ‘Destination North East’ used to be held in different places to exchange culture & heritage of NER with the rest of India, but the virtual event held this year is expected to provide an even wider coverage. In his speech, Secretary DoNER mentioned the different important tourism destinations which NER has to offer and extended a welcome for all to experience their beauty in the post pandemic days ahead.
DrJitendra Singh, Minister of State DoNER explained that the main aim behind the Destination North East event is to bring the rest of India closer to the North Eastern Region. He indicated that with its rich handloom and handicraft traditions, cultural heritage and high literacy rate, the North East has much to offer and was optimistic that, when the Corona pandemic eases, tourists who were earlier holidaying in Europe would flock to the North East, bring prosperity, thereby unlocking the potential of the region so that it becomes the New Engine of growth for the country, as envisaged by the Prime Minister of India.
Addressing the inaugural programme as Chief Guest, Amit Shah, Union Home Minister, appreciated the sincere endeavor and untiring efforts taken by the Minister of DoNER for the upliftment of North East Region. He also acknowledged the presence of the Chief Ministers of the North East Region, who are key to development of the region. He explained that the legacy, cultural heritage and beauty of North East India have not only been a vital ingredient for attracting tourist worldwide but also has been an important jewel of Indian culture. Shah shared about the growing peace in North East Region under the leadership of the Prime Minister NarendraModi and his commitment towards development of North East Region. Highlighting the multi-fold increase in investment by Government of India along with the rise in budgetary support, infrastructure creation and institutional building in North East Region by the Government of India, he was optimistic the North East Region will be an important doorway in the Act East Policy and different regions in North East will also emerge as new business, tourism, organic farming and cultural hubs.
The inaugural event concluded with a vote of thanks by CH Kharshiing Planning Adviser, North Eastern Council.
