MAWKYRWAT, Jan 19: Following the ban on coal mining way back in 2014, the local populace has moved on to tourism for their livelihood, stated Kyrmen Shylla, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister, while inaugurating the two-day Ranikor Beach Festival.
Stating how the concept of tourism was completely alien to the locals of East Jaintia Hills, and it’s only after the National Green Tribunal (NGT) banned rat-hole coal mining, that people started looking for modes of sustainable livelihood, the minister added.
Stressing on the significance of promoting tourism, the Minister pointed out that the sector would directly benefit the local community by creating numerous job opportunities for their livelihood. He emphasised upon the necessity for a hospitable attitude from the local community towards tourists, both from within the state and those visiting from outside so as to encourage more people to visit the area.
The Ranikor Beach Festival 2024 is organised by The Officer’s Club, South West Khasi Hills, at Pamdaba River Beach, Ranikor. It kicked off today in the presence of Ranikor MLA, Pius Marwein and South West Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner T Lyngwa among others. Ranikor MLA, Pius Marwein said that the beach festival aims to yield positive outcomes by offering a platform for locals to showcase their talents in various fields, including entertainment, displaying locally crafted products, presenting traditional costumes and highlighting the rich culture and heritage of the area while encouraging the youth to actively participate in such events.
Marwein also urged upon the residents of Ranikor area to preserve the Kynshi River and its surroundings, by refrain from polluting with chemicals and blasting that harms the aquatic life. He said that preservation of the area’s beauty would be a blessing not only for the locals but also others who will be visiting the tourist spot.
The inauguration ceremony also had in attendance Deputy Commissioner, T. Lyngwa.
The two-day beach festival will feature live musical performance from various bands, Live DJ, Beach Queen Contest, Dance Troupe (The Bellas Dance Crew), Fashion Show. Other special attractions include Mawpoin Game, Beach Volleyball, Camping, Tambola, Tug of War, Kids Zone and Zip lining.
