SANGDUPOTA, Feb 4: The tourism department adopted Basarnallo village in Papum Pare district as a model village during a function at the office of the circle officer here on Monday.
Speaking on the occasion, DTO Tater Mize informed that the adoption of the village was done as per this year’s national tourism theme ‘Adopt a village – for model rural tourism implementation’, and sought the stakeholders’ support for its successful implementation.
Describing rural tourism as “an important USP for the growth of the tourism industry,” Mize said his department is going to submit a plan for promotion of tourism in the village. He requested the local tourism development committee to cooperate with the department in creating the model tourist destination.
CO Takam Nicholas said since Sangdupota is located in the vicinity of the capital complex, it has many things to offer to the tourists, such as adventure tourism and rural tourism.
“The villagers and local youths will be benefitted if tourism is properly implemented,” he said, and asked the villagers to shun hunting and instead opt for preservation of flora and fauna to promote wildlife tourism in the circle.
The CO also exhorted the people to maintain hospitality and cleanliness to create an atmosphere conducive to tourists.
APTOA president John Panye said adopting a village in a systematic manner would boost tourism in the coming days “and it will be easy for the locals to operate in a systematic way.” He stressed on documentation and promotion of the historical sites in the area.
Tourism consultant SS Kar highlighted the importance of implementing the homestay concept in rural areas where there are no proper accommodation facilities. He appealed to the locals to preserve their rich culture and tradition to showcase them to visiting guests.
Arunachal Action Aid Society chairperson Teetu Yoka urged the womenfolk to involve themselves in tourism and other livelihood activities to earn sustainable income and become self-reliant.
Yupia TIO Rechi Lugnya and GBs of Sangdupota circle also spoke.
