Nagaland’s Tourism and Higher Education Minister Temjen Imna Along reaffirmed the state’s strong commitment to building a responsible and environmentally conscious tourism sector. Speaking at a recent tourism stakeholders’ meet in Kohima, the minister stated that Nagaland sustainable tourism lies at the core of the government’s long-term vision to balance growth with ecological and cultural preservation.
The minister highlighted that Nagaland’s diverse landscapes, indigenous traditions, and community spirit make it uniquely positioned to lead India’s sustainable tourism efforts. He emphasized that development in the sector must not come at the cost of the state’s fragile ecosystem or its cultural values.
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Sustainability at the heart of Nagaland’s tourism vision
Temjen Imna Along said the government is adopting a “green tourism” approach to ensure that the benefits of travel reach local communities without harming nature. The Nagaland sustainable tourism framework will include policies promoting eco-friendly accommodations, responsible waste management, and local employment generation.
He added that the Tourism Department is also working with rural bodies to encourage homestay-based models. These homestays will allow visitors to experience Naga hospitality and culture firsthand while ensuring income for host families. “Tourism should empower our people, not exploit our resources,” the minister remarked during his address.
Nagaland, known for its scenic hills, dense forests, and vibrant festivals, attracts travelers from across the world. However, officials have expressed concerns about unregulated tourism leading to environmental degradation. The new plan focuses on preventing this by making sustainability the foundation of every tourism project implemented in the state.
Promoting eco-friendly destinations and practices
Under the new policy, the government will prioritize the development of eco-destinations across Nagaland. Locations such as Khonoma, Dzüleke, and Benreu are already being promoted as models of Nagaland sustainable tourism. These villages practice conservation-oriented tourism where visitors can engage in nature walks, birdwatching, and traditional farming activities.
The minister said the government will provide support for waste recycling projects, solar lighting installations, and awareness programs for villagers involved in tourism. Training workshops for guides and homestay owners will focus on sustainable hospitality, conservation education, and customer engagement.
Temjen Imna Along also stressed the importance of maintaining a balance between tourism infrastructure and nature. “We must build facilities that blend with the environment instead of altering it,” he noted. By promoting eco-lodges and community-run campsites, Nagaland aims to attract tourists who appreciate nature and culture rather than mass entertainment.
Empowering local communities through tourism
The Nagaland sustainable tourism initiative emphasizes local empowerment as a key pillar. Minister Along explained that tourism should create economic opportunities while preserving the state’s cultural fabric. Local communities will play a central role in planning and managing tourism projects, ensuring that traditional knowledge and practices are respected.
To promote inclusivity, the government plans to support women entrepreneurs in handicrafts, traditional food, and eco-tourism services. Self-help groups and youth organizations will also be involved in tourism promotion campaigns. These steps aim to build a people-driven tourism model where communities are the direct beneficiaries of growth.
Along said that sustainable tourism is not just an environmental goal but a social one. “When visitors come to Nagaland, they should take back not just photos but an understanding of our people, our values, and our harmony with nature,” he stated.
The minister also encouraged the youth to explore careers in tourism, highlighting the sector’s potential to provide stable and meaningful employment. Through skill development programs and collaborations with educational institutions, the government seeks to create a new generation of responsible tourism professionals.
Strengthening infrastructure and partnerships
While emphasizing sustainability, Minister Along acknowledged the importance of improving connectivity and facilities. The government is upgrading key tourist routes, enhancing digital infrastructure, and developing eco-friendly transport solutions. The aim is to make travel convenient while keeping environmental impact minimal.
To advance Nagaland sustainable tourism, the state is partnering with national and international organizations working in conservation and tourism management. Discussions are also underway with the North Eastern Council and other stakeholders to secure funding for community-driven tourism projects.
The minister underlined that the Hornbill Festival, one of India’s most celebrated cultural events, will increasingly reflect sustainable principles. Waste segregation, plastic bans, and green energy use will be integral parts of the festival’s organization from this year onward. These initiatives will showcase how cultural tourism and sustainability can coexist.
Building a model for the Northeast
Nagaland’s focus on sustainable tourism has the potential to set a benchmark for other northeastern states. Its community-led, environmentally balanced model aligns perfectly with the region’s natural diversity and cultural richness. Minister Along stated that Nagaland sustainable tourism would serve as a guiding example for inclusive and eco-conscious development.
He added that the state will continue to promote authentic cultural experiences such as traditional craft learning, organic food trails, and indigenous music festivals. These experiences, he said, not only enrich travelers but also sustain local identity.
The government plans to introduce annual awards to recognize villages, entrepreneurs, and organizations contributing to sustainable tourism. This move aims to motivate more communities to adopt responsible tourism practices.
As Nagaland steps into a new era of development, its commitment to sustainability stands firm. Through balanced planning, community participation, and cultural pride, the state seeks to transform tourism into a force for both progress and preservation. Minister Temjen Imna Along’s vision ensures that Nagaland’s natural beauty and traditions will continue to thrive for generations to come.
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