Assam's Ambitious Five-Year Plan to Boost Eco-Tourism and Employment
Assam's Vision for Sustainable Tourism
Assam Tourism Minister while visiting Jongal Bolhu Archaeological Site in Raha on Friday (Photo: @AjantaNeog/X)
Raha, July 3: The Assam government is set to launch a comprehensive five-year master plan aimed at enhancing the state's tourism sector. This initiative will prioritize eco-tourism, rural development, and job creation, emphasizing Assam's potential for sustainable tourism growth.
During a press briefing following her visit to the tourism facilities at Jongal Balahu Garh in Raha, Tourism Minister Ajanta Neog stated that the government aims to leverage tourism as a catalyst for economic development while generating job opportunities for the youth.
Neog remarked, "Our five-year master plan will focus on engaging youth to tackle unemployment issues effectively."
She highlighted that Assam's rich natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and cultural heritage create an ideal backdrop for eco-tourism, with future tourism strategies designed to harmonize environmental preservation with economic advancement.
"Eco-tourism is built on three pillars: nature, human resources, and development. When these elements coexist, they form the foundation of eco-tourism. To achieve this, we must safeguard our ecology, environment, and heritage while ensuring logistical support and economic progress," she explained.
The minister emphasized that tourism development should extend beyond specific sites to benefit local communities as well.
"We aim to broaden tourism's reach beyond just the attractions. Supporting nearby indigenous villages will promote comprehensive regional development and economic prosperity," she added.
Neog also underscored the significance of rural tourism, suggesting that villages could become key tourist spots through the promotion of homestays and community-based tourism initiatives.
"Rather than relying solely on high-end hotels, transforming villages into tourist accommodations and homestays can significantly boost rural tourism, especially since Assam is home to approximately 26,000 villages," she noted.
Additionally, she mentioned the state's upcoming homestay policy, which aims to bolster rural tourism infrastructure and enhance local livelihoods. The government plans to provide financial support of up to Rs 1 crore to self-help groups for developing homestays.
Neog stated that the government's overarching tourism strategy would prioritize economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability.
During her visit to Jongal Balahu Garh, the historic seat of the renowned Tiwa king Jongal Balahu, she revealed that a modern tourism complex, with an investment of nearly Rs 100 crore, is nearing completion.
She expressed optimism that the site would soon welcome visitors and efforts are being made to establish it as a prominent tourism destination with both national and international appeal.
This project also aims to highlight Tiwa heritage, traditions, and culture, preserving the legacy of one of the region's most revered historical figures.