The Business Association of Nagas (BAN), in collaboration with the Nagaland Tourism Department, is all set to host the Nagaland International Conference on Tourism, Transport, and Logistics on February 7 and 8, 2025. The two-day conference, themed “Empowering Nagaland, India through Connectivity and Sustainable Development,” will take place at Niathu Resort in Chümoukedima. The event promises to be a landmark occasion aimed at advancing Nagaland’s tourism, transport, and logistics sectors by focusing on sustainable development, infrastructure, and collaborative growth.
Conference Overview: Bringing Together Key Stakeholders
The Nagaland International Conference on Tourism, Transport, and Logistics is being organized by the Transport & Logistic Committee of BAN, with support from the Ministry of MSME. This conference will bring together stakeholders from India and Southeast Asia to discuss the future of sustainable development in Nagaland, particularly in the tourism, transport, and logistics industries. With a focus on infrastructure, entrepreneurship, and investment, the event aims to create a platform for ideas, discussions, and opportunities that can propel Nagaland’s tourism sector to new heights.
Key Focus Areas of the Conference
The conference’s theme centers around empowering Nagaland through connectivity and sustainable development. Key discussions will focus on how to strengthen Nagaland’s infrastructure to support a growing tourism sector. Speakers and industry experts will discuss opportunities for collaboration among government bodies, private sector players, and global experts, addressing critical issues like market access, digital tools, and technology-driven solutions in tourism.
A significant goal of the event is to promote entrepreneurship in Nagaland’s tourism industry by fostering sustainable practices. This includes attracting investment opportunities that can help local businesses thrive while maintaining the integrity of the state’s cultural heritage and natural resources.
Tourism Excellence Awards
In an exciting development, the BAN Tourism Standing Committee will introduce the Tourism Excellence Awards at the conference. These awards will recognize outstanding contributions in eco-friendly tourism and sustainable practices across three categories:
- Best Eco-Friendly Accommodation or Resort
- Best Community Conservation Practice
- Best Tour Operator
Zubeno Mozhui, Convener of the BAN Tourism Standing Committee, emphasized the significance of these awards, saying they would encourage greater adoption of eco-friendly and responsible tourism practices in the state. Thangi Menon, BAN adviser and former Nagaland Tourism Secretary, added, “Nagaland’s strength lies in its community, nature, and culture. By focusing on these aspects, we can promote responsible tourism that is both enriching for visitors and sustainable for the local community.”
Highlighting Nagaland’s Rich Heritage
Nagaland’s rich natural and cultural heritage will be a central focus of the conference. Experts, including Thangi Menon, will emphasize how Nagaland’s biodiversity, traditional way of life, and unique culture can serve as key tourism assets. The state offers a distinct experience for visitors seeking to explore not just its scenic landscapes but also its ethnic diversity, crafts, and local traditions.
Workshops and Digital Tools for Local Entrepreneurs
Another key aspect of the conference will be a special workshop focused on leveraging digital tools for stakeholders in the tourism industry. This session will be specifically tailored to local entrepreneurs in hotels, homestays, tour operators, and event organizers. The workshop will showcase how digital technologies and online platforms can enhance business operations and marketing strategies for local businesses, increasing their visibility and reach both domestically and internationally.
Funding Opportunities for Entrepreneurs
Inoto Kinimi, Co-convenor of NICTTL, highlighted that the conference would also feature a session on funding opportunities for local entrepreneurs. Experts from SIDBI, SBI, NSIC, and the Government e-Marketplace (GeM Portal) will guide entrepreneurs on how to access financial schemes and investment opportunities. This session aims to equip local businesses with the tools and knowledge to secure funding and grow in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
With sustainability and technology-driven solutions at the forefront, the Nagaland International Conference on Tourism, Transport, and Logistics is expected to catalyze growth in the state’s tourism sector. The discussions and workshops will lay the groundwork for improving infrastructure, attracting investments, and enhancing the state’s tourism offerings in a way that benefits local communities while preserving the environment.
The conference will also foster collaboration between government entities, private players, and global experts, making it an exciting opportunity for entrepreneurs and investors looking to tap into Nagaland’s emerging tourism market.
Empowering Nagaland Through Connectivity and Development
The Nagaland International Conference on Tourism, Transport, and Logistics is an important milestone in Nagaland’s journey towards sustainable tourism development. By focusing on connectivity, sustainable practices, and collaboration, the event promises to lay the foundation for a more prosperous and ecologically responsible future. With key initiatives like the Tourism Excellence Awards, digital workshops, and funding sessions, the conference will empower local businesses and entrepreneurs, creating a brighter future for Nagaland’s tourism sector.