First-ever SATOI CONNECT Fest scheduled from March 26 to 28

Morung Express News
Satoi | February 28

A Community Consensus Meeting with elders and key stakeholders of the Satoi Range, including Gaon Buras (GBs), student bodies, and youth representatives, was held on February 26 at the office of the Extra Assistant Commissioner (EAC), Satoi.

Chaired by EAC Satoi, Obangnener Jamir, NCS, the meeting aimed to outline the vision of the Zunheboto Forest Division to further strengthen its ecotourism initiative in line with the twin goals of conservation and sustainable livelihood development.

Participants lauded the department’s efforts and assured their full support for the initiative under the banner of SATOI CONNECT.

Following the meeting, a two-day trek was organised in collaboration with the district administration, Forest Department officials, and youth volunteers from the Satoi Youth Organisation. The trek commenced from Thsuruhu Village and concluded at Ikiye Village under the Satoi Range, showcasing the region’s scenic landscape and ecotourism potential.

Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the first-ever SATOI CONNECT Fest, scheduled from March 26 to 28. The three-day, two-night event will host 150 participants on a first-come, first-served basis as part of its inaugural edition. Organisers intend to make the festival an annual event.

Speaking to The Morung Express, Obed Bohovo Swu, SFS, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Zunheboto, said the limited number of participants is intended to ensure better coordination and quality management during the initial phase.

“All arrangements will be made by the department upon registration. Participants will be accommodated in homestays to provide an authentic experience of nature rather than a luxury stay,” he said.

Swu informed that volunteers, guides, and homestay hosts will undergo orientation to ensure smooth implementation. The festival programme will include trekking, cultural performances, and storytelling sessions highlighting the history and heritage of the area. A common kitchen serving local and organic food is also being planned to promote indigenous cuisine and maintain uniformity.

Registration will be conducted online, and promotional materials will be released shortly.

The DFO said efforts are being made to utilise available local resources and ensure the event remains plastic-free. The department also plans to support local entrepreneurs throughout the fest.

Emphasising the community-centric objective of the initiative, Swu stated, “We are not doing this for ourselves but to benefit the local people so that they can build a basic livelihood. Since this is still in its initial stage, we are extending all possible assistance. Once the community becomes familiar with the process, we plan to expand similar initiatives to other areas.”

The fest will also feature a photography competition.

Swu expressed hope that both domestic and international tourists would participate. He further invited motorcycle riders’ clubs, photography clubs, college lecturers, experts, and other interested groups to join the initiative and contribute towards developing a stronger blueprint for future editions.

The theme of the fest, “Where Conservation Meets Community,” reflects its broader vision of harmonising environmental protection with community engagement and sustainable development.