TAWANG, 13 Oct: The Tawang district administration organised a two-day capacity building and skill development programme under the theme "Building Sustainable, Safe and Community-Based Tourism in Jang and Mago" here on 12 and 13 October, to equip local communities with skills and knowledge required to tap emerging tourism opportunities along the Jang-Mago-Chuna corridor.

Organised in collaboration with Roots and Wings, the initiative was also aimed at strengthening local participation in the tourism sector, promoting responsible tourism practices and developing a pool of trained and certified local tour guides to enhance the overall visitor experience.

The training programme, which was inaugurated by inaugurated ZPM by Pema Tsering, focused on improving hospitality standards, professional tour guiding, tourist safety, cleanliness and hygiene, digital marketing, online booking management, and the preservation of local culture and Monpa traditions. It also emphasised creating sustainable employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for local youth and other community stakeholders.

The programme brought together a diverse group of tourism-related stakeholders, including homestay owners, hotel and lodge operators, taxi operators, aspiring tour guides, local youth, Self-Help Groups (SHGs), village and adventure tourism committees, handicraft and souvenir sellers, food vendors and local entrepreneurs.

A total of 70 participants from Jang, Mogto, Rho, Jangda, Lhou, Mago and Thingbu villages participated in the programme. Certificates were provided to the participants.

As a follow-up to the classroom sessions, a field visit is scheduled for 14 October to provide participants with practical exposure to local tourism destinations and opportunities.

The programme was conducted under the supervision of Jang ADC Hakraso Kri. (DIPRO)