Dignitaries with the recipient of various awards during World Tourism Day in Kohima on September 27. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | September 27
The Directorate of Tourism, Nagaland observed United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) World Tourism Day in Kohima under theme “Tourism & Sustainable transformation” on September 27.
Addressing the gathering, Arenla Jamir, Commissioner & Secretary, Tourism said that sustainable tourism is a commitment to preserve forests, rivers, and mountains, protect tribal traditions and languages, promote local livelihoods and entrepreneurship and most importantly, to pass on a thriving ecosystem and culture to future generations.
She said that the tourism department has taken several steps toward making tourism a pillar of sustainable development. Through Community-Based Tourism (CDT), she said that the department has been promoting homestays, village tourism, and eco-camps where local communities are the primary stakeholders and beneficiaries.
“We are working to train our youth as tour guides, cultural ambassadors, and hospitality professionals-empowering them to become torchbearers of responsible tourism,” she said.
On Eco-Tourism Projects, she said that several eco-tourism sites are being developed and maintained with strict guidelines to ensure minimum ecological impact. “By leveraging digital tools like Virtual Reality (VR), we aim to promote lesser-known destinations and manage tourist inflow in a balanced manner,” she said.
Through collaboration with experts and environmental groups, we arc ensuring that our strategies align with global sustainability goals, she said. She said that the responsibility lies not only with the government, but it entails a collaborative approach from all stakeholders to achieve various initiative and visions.
“Therefore, sustainable transformation is not the job of the government alone. It requires partnerships between departments, communities, private stakeholders, NGOs, and tourists themselves,” she maintained.
Meanwhile, Jamir challenged the youth to become cultural entrepreneurs, to document their stories and promote heritage with pride.
She also urged the local communities to continue to be the custodians of our land and culture with positive outlook. Jamir told the visitors to come with open hearts and responsible intentions respecting the land and the people.
Meanwhile, the revamp website of the tourism department was launched by Commissioner & Secretary.
Khonoma Upgrade Programme by UN Tourism 2022
Neikedolie Hiekha said that Khonoma was selected by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) in 2022 for its Upgrade Programme.
“This recognition placed our village on the global map of sustainable tourism initiatives. The Upgrade Programme is designed for villages that show extraordinary potential in cultural and ecological stewardship but still need additional support to meet all criteria of the prestigious “Best Tourism Villages” initiative,” Hiekha said.
Through this programme, Khonoma has received technical guidance, training opportunities, and international visibility, tools that help strengthen its sustainable tourism practices.
By enforcing hunting bans, preserving forests, and establishing the Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary, the people of Khonoma turned conservation into culture, and culture into livelihood, he said.
He said that this year’s World Tourism Day theme perfectly aligns with what Khonoma represents through Transformation of livelihood, Transformation of environment and Transformation of identity.
Tourism in Khonoma has created homestays, eco-guided treks, handicrafts, Birdings guides and agro-based experiences, allowing families to earn while preserving traditions, Hiekha said.
He said that conservation has brought back wildlife, protected biodiversity, and sustained forests that are now global symbols of resilience.
Khonoma has become more than a village; it has become an idea that true progress comes from harmony between people and nature.
“The Upgrade Programme has further helped Khonoma refine visitor management, improve eco-friendly infrastructure, and strengthen community governance,” Hiekha said adding that it has also encouraged local youth and women to participate in the tourism economy, ensuring equitable growth.
He said that Khonoma teaches us that sustainable transformation is not about abandoning tradition but about strengthening it in ways that benefit both people and the planet
Meanwhile, Hiekha acknowledged the crucial role played by the Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India and Department of Tourism, Government of Nagaland in enabling Khonoma to be part of the UN Tourism Best Tourism Villages Upgrade Programme.
“Let us pledge that tourism in Nagaland will always be rooted in sustainability, inclusivity, and community empowerment. May Khonoma’s success inspire every village, every traveller and every policymaker to believe that tourism can indeed transform, and that this transformation can be sustainable,” he added.
Tourism- Kigwema perspective
Nino Zhasa, Best Tour Operator Award Winner 2024 said that she have had being part of the tourism industry since the beginning when Nagaland opened its doors to tourism in the year 2000.
Over the years, we have seen interest growing because of our extraordinary natural landscapes, vibrant tribal cultures, and hospitality, she said.
She said that Kigwema village is located on the foothills of the Mt. Japfii range, and it has become a powerful example of how community-led, sustainable tourism can preserve culture and environment while providing livelihoods.
She said that sustainable tourism in Kigwema is not just about scenic trails or cultural performances; it is about livelihoods, dignity, and the next generation choosing to stay and invest in their homeland.
“Let us commit-as government leaders, mentors, investors, and community members to give our time, skills, and resources where they matter most: to the people who live here. When locals are equipped and empowered, sustainable tourism becomes a tool for conservation, culture, and shared prosperity,” Zhasa added.
Velasuzo Chizo, ex-chairman Diezephe village talked on Diezephe Craft Village, which won Ministry of Tourism’s Best Tourism Village in India (Bronze category) 2023. Chizo made a plea to the state government to construct more craft showroom in the village.
Earlier, Vilika Zhimomi, Assistant Director, Tourism, read out the message of United Nations Secretary General António Guterres, who urged “bold, urgent sustainable action to protect people, planet” on the occasion of World Tourism Day.
The programme was chaired by T Kakihe Sumi, Additional Director Tourism while vote of thanks was proposed Lichumo Kikon, Deputy Director, Tourism.
Award
• Best Eco-friendly Accommodation: The Majestic Kapamodzu ,Phek District
• Best Tourism Sustainability Practices: Kigwema Tourism Board, Kohima District
• Best Innovation in Sustainable Tourism: The Experience Naga Kitchen, Chedema
Essay Writing (College level): 1st - Keduo-o Kerhu-o (Kohima Science College Jotsoma); 2nd-Imkonglemla Mollier (Fazl Ali College); 3rd - Lamgousang (Modern College)
Art Competition (High School Level): 1st - Sedevinuo (Mezhur Higher Secondary School); 2nd - Zevi Grace Dukru (Don Bosco Higher Secondary School); 3rd - Moshomi Nath (Mezhur Higher Secondary School)
Reels Competition: 1st- Cievito Rhakho; 2nd- Apen Small village Guy; 3rd - Asakho Chase
Certificate of appreciation for contribution in promoting tourism in Nagaland through creative and engaging social media content: Keviu Rupreo & PfuzotoTetseo
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