Shillong, Sept. 2: The North Eastern & Eastern States/UTs Tourism Ministers Conference, a prestigious gathering aimed at discussing and promoting tourism across the Eastern States and Union Territories of India, was successfully held today at Shillong in Meghalaya.

The conference was chaired by Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Hon’ble Union Minister for Tourism and Culture. Shri Suresh Gopi, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Tourism, Admiral D.K. Joshi, PVSM, AVSM,YSM,NM,VSM (Retd.) Hon’ble Lt. Governor, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Tourism Ministers of different States of North Eastern & Eastern State attended the conference.

In his address, the Hon’ble Union Minister for Tourism and Culture stated that Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has promoted India's tourism sector at the global level, as a result, the tourism sector across the country has now got a new shine. In the roadmap for developed India, sustainable development of the tourism sector has been placed at the top level. He also took opinion while presenting the vision of the Central Government.

Speaking in the conference Hon’ble Lt. Governor A&N Islands highlighted the proactive steps taken by UT Administration to promote sustainable tourism in Isles. He said, a single window clearance system for all tourism related activities has been made fully functional under the Tourism Department of A&N Administration to facilitate potential investors and stakeholders in the Tourism Sector. He further stated that tourist footfall has increased manifold (except during COVID -19) in the Islands. Post COVID, tourism activities are gradually gaining momentum. The Hon’ble Lt. Governor also mentioned that Air Asia will be commencing International flight operation between Port Blair and Kuala Lumpur from 16.11.2024 and the commencement of this flight will give a phenomenal boost to tourism and export of marine products. He also apprised the gathering about the early operationalisation of Sea Plane in the Islands. Apart from this, to promote the Islands as a premier diving destination and put the Islands on the world diving map, plans are being made to create multiple Guinness World Records by forming the largest human chain etc.

Hon’ble Lt. Governor also elaborated on development of NSCB Dweep as National Memorial, Viper Island as Heritage Tourism destination, Ecotourism Projects in PPP model being explored, Guidelines for Water Sports activities, formulating policies for Bird Watching, Caravan Luxury Tented Accommodation, House Boat Tourism, Astro Tourism and A&N Bed & Breakfast/Home-stay Schemes.

The event brought together key dignitaries and leaders from various States/UTs to deliberate on strategies for boosting tourism while preserving the unique cultural and ecological heritage of the region.

Later, the Hon’ble Lt. Governor also interacted with the Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Shri Conrad K Sangma.