Nagaland tourism advisor shares on ‘best practices in sustainable tourism’

Advisor H Khehovi Yeputhomi addressing the Tourism Ministers’ Conclave 2019 held at Kovalam, Kerala on September 16.

DIMAPUR, September 17 (MExN): Nagaland advisor for tourism, art and culture, H Khehovi Yeputhomi represented the state during the Tourism Ministers’ Conclave 2019 held at Kovalam, Kerala, on September 16.

A press release received here stated that the conclave was inaugurated by Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan while Union minister of state for tourism and culture Prahlad Singh Patel was the chief guest. Kerala tourism minister Kadakampally Surendran presided over the function.

Addressing the conclave, Khehovi gave a presentation on the “best practices in sustainable tourism with regard to Nagaland.” 

He highlighted on the booming music and art scene in Nagaland, the state government’s initiative of making Nagaland an organic and plastic-free state, while also extending an invitation to all to “get aboard the upcoming market for tourism and hospitality industry in Nagaland.”

Over the course of the conclave, various factors like high tax rate for hotel rooms, high airfares during peak season and festival periods and high and varied inter-state tourist vehicle taxes which are detrimental to the growth of the industry were deliberated upon. 

Taking note of the challenges faced by the tourism industry across the country, resolutions urging for reduction of goods and services tax for hotel rooms. They also asked for simplification and rationalisation of various taxes and levies to attract tourists and take on global competition.

In addition, the conclave proposed formation of regional tourism councils and developing tourism circuits, which can be region-based and in neighbouring states. Moving the resolution, Odisha Tourism Minister Jyoti Prakash Panigrahisaid that setting up regional tourism councils will facilitate periodic interaction among different states and enhance collaboration.