Sustainable tourism stressed on World Tourism Day
Source: The Sangai Express / DIPR

Imphal, September 27 2025: Manipur joined the rest of the globe in celebrating the World Tourism Day 2025 with vibrant cultural zeal and enthusiasm today.

The event was organised by the Department of Tourism, Government of Manipur under the theme "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation" at Cheiraoching in Thangmeiband, Imphal West.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel said that World Tourism Day, observed every year on September 27, marks the adoption of the statues of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation in 1970, which laid the foundation for modem global tourism cooperation.

He noted that the day is celebrated worldwide to raise awareness about the importance of tourism, its social, cultural, political and socio-economic value, and to highlight the sector's potential to contribute to sustainable development.

Sustainable tourism stressed on World Tourism Day

He asserted that tourism is one of the world's fastest growing industries, capable of creating jobs, empowering youth, promoting cultural exchange and fostering peace among Nations.

For Manipur, he added, the day is an opportunity to reaffirm the State's resolve to promote tourism as both an economic activity and a way to preserve traditions, showcase natural beauty and share its rich cultural heritage globally.

The Chief Secretary assured that the Government of Manipur is steadily promoting tourism as a pillar of economic development through infrastructure projects, eco-tourism initiatives and youth skill development to create jobs and entrepreneurship.

He further said that the Government is prioritising sustainable tourism to ensure Manipur's environment, culture and values remain protected.

He also outlined major initiatives of the State Tourism Department including the promotion of homestays under the RAMP scheme to enhance community participation and offer authentic local experiences to visitors.

He also informed that a training for 500 youths including IDPs in cabin crew and hospitality sector is underway.

Goel further stated that the Marjing Polo Complex is being developed to honour Manipur's Polo legacy, while efforts are being made at Khongjom War Memorial to preserve and showcase the State's history of sacrifice and valour.

He maintained that several projects are being implemented with the ethos of sustainable tourism to balance development with heritage conservation and environment protection.

He also mentioned major festivals organised by the Tourism Department including the Sangai Festival and Shirui Lily Festival, which have earned National and international recognition.

Highlighting this year's theme, the Chief Secretary stated that it serves as a reminder that tourism must transform lives, empower communities and protect the State's natural and cultural treasures for future generations.

He further called upon the Government, private sector, civil society and the public to work together to make Manipur a shining example of sustainable and responsible tourism.

Arun Kumar Sinha, Principal Secretary; Hungyo Worshang, Secretary (Tourism) and Lourembam Bikram, Director (Tourism) attended the programme.

Awards were also presented to tour operators on the occasion.

The event showcased a vibrant array of cultural and traditional performances including Echoes of Fusion-a musical fusion of indigenous instruments, Thang-Ta demonstration, Maibi, Kabui and Poumai dances, a Koireng cultural performance, presentations by students of Pam's Kindergarten, a traditional dance fusion by Lan Lan Studio and song performances by Benita, Featherheads Haokui and Uttam.