JOWAI: The 9th Discover Jaintia- a tourism festival organised by the Jaintia Tourism and Environment Society (JTES) supported by the Meghalaya Tourism and WJH District Administration– was flagged off on Wednesday with a procession from Ladthadlaboh to Tympang Club Playground.
Hundreds of participants from various Dorbar Shnong including Sabahmuswang and Nangbah besides urban villages of Jowai town took part in the march wearing colourful traditional dresses.
The Principal Secretary in charge Sports and Youth Affairs, P Kharkongngor inaugurated the festival in the presence of West Jaintia Hills Deputy Commissioner, Peter S Dkhar, leaders and officials of the JTES.
In his keynote address, JTES founder president, MS Lhuid said, “We started the Discover Jaintia festival in 2006 with a motive to boost tourism and to protect the environment in Jaintia Hills”.
The efforts taken by the JTES in organizing the annual event was also lauded.
“Tourism plays an important role in the economy of the local community and the state. It also provides jobs opportunities to un-employed educated youths besides other social and environmental advantages,” Kharkongngor observed.
“It is very important to have a proper network for selling our packages so that tourists visit us and help us improve our economy,” he added.
On the first day of the vent besides various cultural events like dance and music by local artists, bikers showcased their talent during a show.
Local magician Peter Lamare also performed to the delight of the crowd. A walk in traditional attires was also organised during day 1 of the festival.