TURA: A One Day Interactive Workshop on “Tourism and Service Development in Garo Hills” was organised as part of the celebration of World Tourism Day at Food Craft Institute, Tourism Complex in Tura on Thursday with the theme “Tourism and Digital Transformation”. The programme was organised by District Tourism Office, West Garo Hills in collaboration with all District Tourism Offices of Garo Hills region.
Speaking on the occasion as Chief Guest, West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner, Ram Singh said that digital advances are transforming and how we connect and inform ourselves, transforming our behaviour with encouraging innovation and sustainable strategies are responsible for the growth of tourism industry.
Further, he stated that the three important aspects a tourist looks for while travelling are mode of transport, food and a comfortable place to stay, the information which nowadays are readily available on certain websites dealing with travel and tourism, etc. Elaborating on the need for tour operators in the region, he said that tour operators should be sensitised and learn to deal with different kinds of human behaviour.
Stressing on the possibility of promoting Adventure Tourism in the region, he said that the stretch from Jengjal to Nongstoin have unique scenic beauty and the road is also good and is suitable for organising marathon and cycling competitions, etc, which will attract tourism.
Joint Director, Tourism and Principal, Food Craft Institute, Tura K M Momin while addressing the gathering stated that according to the theme of this year’s World Tourism Day, the tourism industry is the fastest growing industry with modern technology which is relevant everywhere with apps and websites being used to access any kind of information about tourism.
Mentioning about the unique flora and fauna in South Garo Hills including Balpakram National Park, Siju Cave, Bird Sanctuary, Pitcher Plant Reserve and Nokrek National Park, he said that the region has the scope to promote Eco-Tourism and Wildlife Tourism in these areas. Further, he stated that the traditional garo village in Sadolpara area can also be promoted as cultural tourism and urged that this place may be preserved for research studies as well as a tourist spot. Referring to Chandigre Rural Resort at Chandigre, on the foothills of Nokrek National Park, he urged more groups or individuals to take up rural tourism and promote the business in their respective areas by providing basic amenities to the tourist.
Meanwhile, he informed that under Tourism Development and Investment Promotion Scheme the department provides assistance for Homestays and Resort with an amount of Rs. 16 lakhs and 1 crore respectively with 30 % subsidy of the cost of the project, but unfortunately there are no takers for resorts in Garo Hills.
Others who spoke during the programme included, Secretary of A’chik Tourism Society, D N Marak and Baghmara Tourism Officer, C B Sangma.