TAWANG, Sept 27: The Department of Tourism, Tawang, on Friday joined the global observance of World Tourism Day with a vibrant programme that brought together government officials, stakeholders, and visitors to highlight the importance of sustainable tourism and its role in preserving the cultural and natural wealth of the district.
Deputy Commissioner Tawang, Namgyal Angmo, IAS, in her keynote address, stressed that tourism development should not be measured only by the rise in visitor numbers or expansion of facilities, but also by the quality of services, visitor satisfaction, and the preservation of Tawang’s pristine environment, rich culture, and age-old traditions. She urged all stakeholders to promote tourism in a dignified and responsible manner by avoiding the pitfalls of mass tourism and instead encouraging eco-friendly, community-driven initiatives.
Calling for a wider outreach, she highlighted the need to promote rural and unexplored places such as Jemeithang and Mago, ensuring that even the remotest villages in the district benefit from tourism. “Tourism growth must empower local communities, strengthen traditional livelihoods, and safeguard the future for coming generations,” Angmo reiterated.
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District tourism officer, Tsering Dekey, outlined the initiatives of the district administration in promoting tourism sustainably.
She informed that a refresher-cum-capacity building training for hoteliers, homestay operators, and tourist guides was conducted earlier in the week under the initiative of the DC Tawang, focusing on enhancing service standards, cultural preservation, and visitor experience.
As part of the day’s programme, certificates were distributed to participants of the Homestay Owners’ Convention who had undergone training earlier this year at DK Convention Hall, Itanagar, as well as to those who recently completed the capacity building course in Tawang.
The initiative reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to building skills and strengthening service delivery in the tourism sector.
Demonstrating an eco-conscious approach, DC Angmo also presided over the distribution of dustbins sponsored by the Mon Hotel Association, Tawang, in an effort to encourage cleanliness and environmental responsibility across tourist hubs and localities.
The day further witnessed the launch of a book titled “Threads of Destiny: The Saga of Mandralgang and Pemachen” by Koncho Teering, Nursing Officer at KDS District Hospital Tawang.
The release of the book added a literary flavour to the celebration, reflecting the importance of local storytelling traditions.
The cultural spirit of the Monpa community was highlighted through enthralling performances by the Ketchenga Cultural Troupe, WASV Cultural Troupe, and others, which captivated the audience and showcased the district’s vibrant heritage.
An exhibition of traditional Monpa cuisines, organised by the Homestay Owners’ Association of Tawang, gave participants a unique opportunity to relish authentic local flavours.
The programme was attended by Assistant Commissioner Tawang Sange Norbu, OC SB of District Police Kesang Norbu, Secretary General of Mon Mimang Tsokpa (MMT) Rinchin Norbu, Taxi Union President Tashi Dondup, Hoteliers’ Association President Sonam, Homestay Operators’ President Lham Ngurup, tour guides, domestic and international tourists, and other dignitaries.
Reflecting on the occasion, DC Namgyal Angmo reminded the gathering that “World Tourism Day is not just a celebration but a reminder of our responsibility to develop tourism in a sustainable manner for our future generations.” The day’s events underlined the shared commitment of the administration, the Department of Tourism, and local stakeholders towards developing Tawang as a tourism destination that harmonises growth with sustainability, ensuring long-term benefits for both the community and the environment.
