I Kitto Zhimomi, Commissioner & Secretary, Tourism, Nagaland, addressing the gathering during the virtual launch of the Tribal Cultural Experience project in Tsiepama, on March 7. (Morung Photo)
PM remotely launches tourism project in Tsiepama
Our Correspondent
Kohima | March 7
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, today, virtually launched the Chümoukedima Tribal Cultural Experience project at Midway Retreat, Tsiepama, which falls right along National Highway 29.
One of multiple tourism projects across the country under Swadesh Darshan 2.0, the PM launched the project from Srinagar on March 7. The Tribal Cultural Experience project will feature bamboo cottages, tourist family lodges, workshop and exhibition space, open air theatre etc.
Ahead of the launch by the PM, Nagaland Tourism Commissioner & Secretary, I Kitto Zhimomi said that Nagaland may have missed the industrial and green revolution but will not miss the Government of India’s ongoing thrust in the tourism sector.
“We are trying to catch hold and join the bandwagon of tourism as the next step of employment/opportunity provider for the youth today,” he said. 'Swadesh Darshan' is a central sector scheme launched by the Ministry of Tourism, for the integrated development of theme-based tourist circuits. The scheme aims to promote, develop and harness the potential of tourism in India.
In Nagaland, Swadesh Darshan 1.0 has covered the districts of Peren, Kohima, Wokha, Mokokchung, Mon and Tuensang. Swadesh Darshan 2.0 will be covering Niuland and Chümoukedima districts, Zhimomi said and exuded confidence that the scheme would also cover the remaining districts in due course of time.
Stating that the state government will soon be inaugurating the projects completed under the Swadesh Darshan 1.0 in Nagaland, Zhimomi said that it will open up employment avenue for the students at the State Institute of Hotel Management (SIHM), Dimapur. Appreciating Tsiepama village for granting land for the Swadesh Darshan project, he further requested the village to continue to extend support to the government to take the tourism industry forward.
Tsiepama Village Council Chairperson, Seyievizo Visezuo assured fullest support and cooperation to the tourism department. He also told the officials that the village is ready to offer more land for the project.
More to creating scenic spots
Nagaland Association of Tour Operators (NATO) President Kejaroko Pieru said that Nagaland boasts unparalleled natural beauty, diverse cultures and traditions that are waiting to be explored. Pieru said that without adequate facilities and infrastructure, a rural and remote destination like Nagaland will continue to miss out on the benefits that tourism can bring. According to him, there is more to creating picturesque spots. “It is about empowering our local communities, preserving our cultural heritage and creating sustainable livelihoods for our people,” he said.
Vimeto Vakha, a public leader, said that the programmes initiated by the Ministry of Tourism in the past development laid a strong foundation for the growth of tourism in Nagaland. He claimed that through investments in infrastructure, promotion of the Naga cultural heritage and capacity building initiatives, the state has witnessed a remarkable transformation in the tourism sector.
