RUPA, 28 Sep: Kalaktang MLA Tseten Chombey stressed the need to promote lesser-known tourist destinations like Rupa in West Kameng district, saying that it's [Rupa] rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, and pleasant climate have the potential to make it one of the finest tourist destinations in the region.
Addressing the gathering during the World Tourism Day celebration here, Chombey lauded the Indian Army for its continued support and contributions to the development of the Rupa area.
The MLA also highlighted his vision and plans for strengthening tourism infrastructure and promoting tourism activities in the region.
On the occasion, the MLA launched the Rupa Tourism Society [RTS] and released tourism information pamphlets showcasing the attractions and information about the Rupa region. He also administered the Nasha Mukht Bharat pledge to the participants.
Deputy Commissioner Dr Dilip Kumar said that West Kameng possesses immense tourism potential, and emphasised the importance of proper planning and sustainable development while creating and promoting tourist destinations.
The DC urged all stakeholders to make every event plastic-free by avoiding single-use plastic items. He further appealed to the public to adopt proper waste segregation practices using the four-colour dustbin system, and called for collective efforts to keep the township clean and environmentally sustainable.
RTS president Tenzin Wangmu Musabi, referring to the success story of Shergaon as one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the region, called upon the people of Rupa to work collectively towards achieving similar growth in tourism.
She also informed the public about new traffic management measures, including one-way vehicular movement along the market road, and the introduction of a vehicle-free market zone every Saturday.
The initiative aims to provide visitors and tourists with a more enjoyable and pedestrian-friendly experience while exploring the market area.
District Informatics Officer Abhisek Raj highlighted the features and benefits of Yakatopia tourism app in providing tourists with easy access to information about the district by demonstrating a tutorial video of the application.
Kalaktang SDPO created awareness about the Yodha-Bandu and Choo-Man-Tar mobile applications among the public.
Col Sandeep Chandel of the 5 Mountain Division appreciated the scenic beauty and tourism potential of West Kameng, describing it as one of the most beautiful regions in the country. He suggested measures for the further growth of tourism in the region and assured of all possible support from the Indian Army towards tourism promotion initiatives.
District Tourism Officer TW Thongdok briefed the gathering on the significance of World Tourism Day,and highlighted this year's theme, 'Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism'.
Four-colour dustbins were distributed for the Rupa market by the District Urban Development Agency.
Members of the Manchin self-help group highlighted their ongoing efforts to maintain cleanliness in the township, and distributed cotton bags to taxi drivers, NGOs, hotel owners, and homestay operators.
The bags are intended to help collect wrappers and other waste materials for proper disposal.
Several tourism stakeholders also shared their experiences, initiatives, and future plans aimed at promoting tourism in the region.
During the event, winners of the marathon in both the boys' and girls' categories, organised under the Nasha Mukht Bharat Abhiyan, were felicitated.
Stalls were set by SHGs along the streets of the market, showcasing a variety of locally produced items and traditional products.
Colourful cultural performances presented by various organisations added vibrancy to the celebration and showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Rupa region.
A plantation drive was also carried out in Rupa town under the banner of 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam'.
The celebration was organised by the West Kameng district administration in collaboration with the Department of Tourism and the RTS. (DIPRO)
