Shillong (Meghalaya) , Sept 27: The Department of Tourism, Meghalaya, in collaboration with Outlook Magazine, proudly The Indian Responsible Tourism State Summit & Awards 2023 –The Meghalaya Chapter, on World Tourism Day, September 27, 2023, at the State Convention Centre, here .
The event was attended by Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh, Dr. Vijay Kumar, Commissioner & Secretary, Tourism Department, C.V. D Diengdoh, Director of Tourism.
This event aimed to recognize and celebrate the outstanding efforts and contributions of individuals and organizations that are dedicated to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism in Meghalaya. The summit featured several award categories, showcasing the commitment of various stakeholders to sustainable tourism practices.
Tourism Minister, Paul Lyngdoh, expressed his enthusiasm for the winners’ dedication to responsible tourism practices. The minister said, “And today, we have a footfall of close to 15 lakh visitors to Meghalaya. And more importantly, we have more international tourists visiting Meghalaya as compared to domestic tourists. It is an achievement.”
Dr. Vijay Kumar, Commissioner & Secretary, Tourism Department, delivered the welcome speech, emphasizing the importance of responsible tourism in preserving Meghalaya’s natural and cultural heritage. He said, “If done properly and sustainably, we can use the tourism sector, the travel and hospitality sector, as a way, not just to showcase our culture, our tradition, our way of life but most importantly to use all the nature, culture to build livelihoods, to create employment opportunities for people and to make the state prosperous. In short, tourism can be that growth engine which can really drive growth for the state. Our goal is to make Meghalaya the most beautiful, the most desirable tourism destination in the country.”
Cyril V. Darlong Diengdoh, Director of Tourism, expressed gratitude through a vote of thanks, acknowledging the commitment of all participants and congratulated the winners.
