Arunachal Pradesh doubles growth in tourist traffic in last five years

NEW DELHI (INDIA): The department of tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh held its first Arunachal Pradesh Tourism Conclave 2017 in New Delhi today.nnThe Conclave was graced by Kiren Rijiju Union Minister of State for Home, Government of India and P.D Sona Honorable Parliamentary Secretary Tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh and witnessed a compelling programme of anchor events, content for new partners and delegate representation from the entire spectrum of the travel and tourism industry. The platform was part of the state government?s efforts to boost domestic and international tourist inflow in the state which received over 3.5 lakh tourists in 2016.nnThe department of tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh is constantly committed to developing the tourism infrastructure in the state through creation of tourism products that will attract and assist trade partners to provide unique offerings to tourists and put Arunachal Pradesh in the consideration set of holiday makers.nnSpeaking at the Conclave, Dr Joram Beda, Tourism Secretary, Government of Arunachal Pradesh said, ?Arunachal Pradesh is investing to become the adventure and exotic tourism hub of India. We have been organising theme-based events like the Tawang festival, Ziro festival of music, Arunachal spring carnival, adventure at Mechuka as also the Kameng river festival. The role of tourism partners in building awareness and encouraging on the unique attractions this state offers is paramount. In 2017, we expect the number of tourist arrivals to grow exponentially. We thank our tourism partners and urge them to continue promoting the rich biodiversity and ecotourism attractions that Arunachal Pradesh offers”.nnIn a pan India bid to formulate strategies and methodologies to develop tourism opportunities in Arunachal Pradesh, the department of tourism has also signed Memorandum of Understanding signaling strategic partnerships between four key partners to work together to promote and attract tourists in the pristine State of Arunachal Pradesh.nnOxigen Wallet has signed on as the official E-wallet Partner for the department of Tourism and is committed to promote cashless transactions in the tourism sector of the state. Joining hands with them is MakeMyTrip.com who has signed on as its official Partner in the Online Travel Portal Category to drive tourists into the state of Arunachal Pradesh using its online Portal ?Makemytrip.com? and its associated digital platforms. Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), one the largest Travel and Tourism associations whose primary focus is to protect the interest of the industry and safeguard the travelling public from exploitation have come on board as official Partner in the Travel Agents Association Category. Fly Wings (FWSTC) who has signed on as the official partner for Hospitality Training will lead the initiative to assist the unemployed youth to get trained under the Tourism and Hospitality Management programme.nnThis is another initiative under the skill development sector moto of Government of India. The National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC) is the official Creative and Brand Development partner to the department of Tourism and will provide support in creating effective branding and creative campaigns for the state?s tourism initiatives. The combined efforts of these partners will harness the potential of tourism in Arunachal Pradesh and develop tourism facilities and various tourism destinations as per the master plan.nnArunachal Pradesh displays a wide variety of tourism options today. From being an Eco Tourism hotspot that boasts of rich and diverse biodiversity to allowing for a complete cultural, religious and spiritual immersion, as well as ample options for heritage and adventure tourism. The tourism industry in the state is well poised for growth and is looking for yearly growth of around 20% in the next three years.nnThe department of Tourism in Arunachal Pradesh is working to overcome the inherent infrastructure challenges and transportation bottlenecks as the sector moves from its nascent stage into the country?s tourism foray. Beyond the unique tourism options, travelers are now spoilt for choice with the types of accommodation ranging from star hotels, resorts, tourist lodges and popular home stays in the state.