Nagaland proposes Rs 250 crore plan to develop Dzükou Valley

DIMAPUR, OCTOBER 15 (MExN): The two-day National Conference of State Tourism Ministers concluded here on Wednesday in Udaipur, with a key focus on developing 50 world-class tourist destinations through a national challenge initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

The conference, chaired by the Union Minister of Tourism and Culture, saw participation from Tourism Ministers and senior officials of 22 states.

Nagaland’s Minister for Tourism and Higher Education, who led the state delegation including Secretary and Director Tourism, presented Dzükou Valley as the state’s official nomination for the national “Development of 50 Tourist Destinations of Global Standards” initiative.

According to a release, the proposal outlines a transformative development plan with an estimated cost of Rs 250 crore. The project aims to establish Dzükou Valley as a premier international eco-tourism destination. The project will include the construction of an eco-friendly luxury hotel, construction of other tourist facilities, and supporting infrastructure designed to enhance accessibility and visitor experience while preserving the valley’s pristine natural eco-system, it stated.

Speaking at the conference, the Nagaland Minister emphasised the valley's unique ecological significance, describing it as “a symbol of God's beautiful creation in Nagaland for the world to see and experience.”

The conference deliberations centred on strategies for creating globally competitive destinations, promoting regional tourism circuits, and strengthening centre-state cooperation to build a more vibrant tourism economy. The nomination marks a significant step in Nagaland's efforts to promote its natural heritage and position Dzükou Valley as a world-class hub for eco and sustainable tourism.