Tezu, Apr 17: A stakeholders’ meeting aimed at bolstering tourism in Lohit district was convened at the deputy commissioner’s conference hall here on Thursday, with a focus on promoting community-based, sustainable tourism.
The meeting, chaired by Lohit deputy commissioner Kesang Ngurup Damo and organised by district tourism officer Dibroo Catherine Boo, brought together a cross-section of tourism stakeholders including homestay owners, hoteliers, resort operators, and tour guides.
In his address, DC Damo highlighted the untapped tourism potential of the district and stressed the importance of inclusive, grassroots-driven tourism development. Citing Tawang’s successful tourism model, he encouraged stakeholders to curate unique visitor experiences that reflect Lohit’s cultural and ecological richness.
Key discussions included active participation in the upcoming CCC Tezu event showcasing Mishmi cuisine and culture, promotion of rural experiences like vegetable gardens and wildlife-based tourism, and video documentation of successful homestay ventures.
Stakeholders advocated for the empowerment of local tour guides through structured training and greater involvement in tourism activities. Conservation of biodiversity and integration of cultural heritage—especially Mishmi traditions—were identified as critical components of Lohit’s tourism identity.
Suggestions also included encouraging youth and women to play a central role in delivering immersive experiences such as traditional storytelling, ethnic cuisine, handicrafts, and heritage-based homestays.
The meeting resolved to document unique homestay features, shortlist participants for tourism events and storytelling sessions, and frame a district-level tourism promotion strategy through collective action.
The session concluded with a shared vision to position Lohit as a vibrant, culturally rich, and environmentally responsible tourism destination with strong community participation.
