In a crucial step toward fostering sustainable tourism in Arunachal Pradesh, the Arunachal Pradesh Tour Operators Association (APTOA) presented an eight-point representation to the Parliamentary Standing Committee (PSC) on Transport, Tourism & Culture during a meeting held at Hotel Marriott in Shillong.
The representation outlined the need for an integrated approach to developing the tourism sector while ensuring environmental sustainability, cultural preservation, and long-term economic benefits for local communities.
Tsering Wange, Chief Adviser of APTOA, led the charge, advocating for the imposition of a sustainable development fee on both foreign and domestic tourists. This fee, similar to Bhutan’s successful model, would contribute directly to preserving the region’s fragile environment and cultural heritage. According to Wange, sustainable tourism in Arunachal would ensure that tourism not only boosts the economy but also safeguards the natural beauty and traditions of the region. He emphasized that the state must focus on quality tourism, steering away from mass tourism to preserve the unique appeal of Arunachal.
In his address, Wange further suggested opening up trekking and mountain expeditions in the Arunachal Himalayas, following the successful model of Nepal. This initiative, he argued, could significantly bolster adventure tourism in the state, attracting trekkers and mountaineers while also helping to secure remote border areas.PSC Chairman Sanjay Kumar Jha reacted positively to the proposals presented by APTOA, assuring that the committee would seriously consider all eight points raised by the association. Jha expressed the importance of creating policies that balance growth with environmental protection, an aspect that aligns with global trends in sustainable tourism development.
In support of APTOA’s push, Arunachal East Member of Parliament (MP) Tapir Gao highlighted the necessity of a special infrastructure development fund for the state. Gao pointed out that Arunachal Pradesh does not receive grants or loans from international financial institutions such as the World Bank or the International Monetary Fund, which hampers its ability to develop tourism infrastructure. He further underscored the lack of digital marketing and promotional efforts in key tourism-generating markets, which he believes has slowed the state’s potential in attracting tourists.
Adding to the discussions, Dr. Sudha Murthy, a Padma Bhushan awardee and philanthropist, spoke about her deep connection with Arunachal Pradesh and her advocacy for improving basic amenities for tourists. She stressed the need for clean toilets and other essential wayside facilities along popular tourist circuits. Dr. Murthy also called for effective waste management strategies to ensure that the state’s natural beauty is preserved even as tourism increases.
Manjunath R, the Director of Arunachal Tourism, presented a detailed PowerPoint showcasing the state’s tourism potential and current initiatives. His presentation received appreciation from both the PSC Chairman and the members of the committee, indicating a promising future for tourism development in the region.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Union Ministry of Tourism & Culture and Meghalaya Tourism, as well as members of the Parliamentary Standing Committee. These discussions mark a significant step forward in Arunachal Pradesh’s efforts to transform its tourism sector into a sustainable, eco-friendly, and economically beneficial industry.
As the state prepares to attract more tourists, both domestic and international, the focus on sustainable growth will be essential in ensuring that the region’s environmental and cultural integrity is maintained for future generations.
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APTOA Advocates Sustainable Tourism for Arunachal
