Lamgousang
Department of Political Science
Modern College, Piphema
Tourism is growing rapidly all over the world, and even Nagaland has become a part of it. In my opinion, tourism is not only about visitors coming to see us, but also about how we present ourselves and who we are. Nagaland is a small state in Northeast India, but it also has beautiful hills, forests, and a very rich culture. This makes our state very special compared to many other places. At the same time, tourism should not only be about outsiders coming and enjoying themselves here, but also about how it can change the lives of the local people in a good and meaningful way.
The present scenario of Tourism in Nagaland.
Right now, tourism in Nagaland is growing slowly. Take the example from the Hornbill festival, which is the biggest attraction in the outside world, as we can see how people from mainland India and even foreigners were amazed by our traditions, cultures, food habits, and our overall lifestyle. And these things made me realise how valuable our culture is.
Other than Hornbill, places like Dzukou Valley, Saramati peak, Japfu peak, which are known as the highest and second-highest mountain in Nagaland respectively, also Shilloi lake in Meluri which is known as the largest natural lake in Nagaland, Khonoma which is the first green village in India, are well known to the outsiders. But at the same time, it is very discouraging to see when some tourists pollute the environment without care. It shows that we still need to make tourism more responsible.
We also have many other tribal festivals celebrated throughout the year. But these are not as famous as the Hornbill festivals, yet they also truly show our rich culture. Therefore, if we promote them properly, they can also attract visitors around the world.
Importance of Tourism in Nagaland:
Tourism is very important as it can improve our economic system and also create opportunities for many young enthusiastic people. Most of the people in Nagaland are dependent on farming, but farming alone is not enough to achieve sustainable development. For instance, the youth can also work as a guide during state events such as Hornbill, which can help them earn money and gain confidence.
Tourism also makes us proud of our cultural heritage. Because when a tourist admires our shawls, dances and food, we feel that what we have is really valuable. It can also give or create opportunities for the youths to start businesses like homestays, eco-tourism, and handicrafts.
Another thing is that tourism connects Nagaland with the outside world. Many people in mainland India or abroad have not much of an idea about us because when I travelled to mainland India during a study tour, many mainland people were not aware of us, and some were totally unaware that Nagaland is also part of India. This shows how much we need to promote our culture to outsiders. So, when they visit us more they will understand us better.
Challenges in Tourism Development:
There are still many challenges. As per my experience, the roads are not in such good condition especially the NH-29, and I feel that many visitors will have a hard time travelling through these routes. Also, I once heard a tourist complaining about not finding a proper toilet in a village, and it made me realise how small things can spoil their experience.
Another problem is that some traditions are changed just to make them short for stage shows. And I think it may make the younger generation forget the original meaning. Also, careless tourism can spoil nature and its beauty.
Plastic waste in Dzukou Valley is an example. Therefore, if we are not careful about our actions, the beauty that attracts the visitors will be lost.
The way Forward: Sustainable tourism
I believe tourism in Nagaland should focus on sustainability. Because, if we don’t care now, the future generation may not see the beauty that we see today. One good example is Khonoma Village, which is known best for its title “Asia’s first Green village”. I heard from my seniors that they saw almost no plastic waste out there, which inspired me a lot. Their idea of protecting forests and practising eco-tourism can also be followed in other places.
We can also learn from other states like Meghalaya, which promotes eco-tourism with its living root bridges, and Arunachal Pradesh with Homestays in Ziro and Tawang. Nagaland can also follow similar steps.
Role of youth in Tourism:
I feel the youths of Nagaland are the most important assets in building sustainable tourism because we know both tradition and technology. Many of us are proactive on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and many other social media platforms, where we can promote our culture and tourism spots. We should also learn skills like guiding, hospitality and small business management. This will not only support tourism but also make us more responsible.
The future of Tourism in Nagaland:
Nagaland has great potential to be a well-known tourism hotspot, but it must be sustainable. Proper road connectivity, better facilities and eco-tourism should be developed, and Hornbill should not be the only highlight because every district has its own story.
Tourism can also include farming because many villages grow organic food and tourists can enjoy farm visits and fresh food. We should also carefully promote adventurous tourism like trekking, camping and bird watching.
To conclude, tourism in Nagaland is not just about visitors coming here, but also about bringing changes, giving us pride and making opportunities for the youths. But this must happen in a way that protects our nature and traditions.
As a young person from Nagaland, I feel it is our duty to make tourism a blessing, not a burden. Tourism is like planting a tree: it may grow slowly, but in the future, it gives shade and fruit to everyone. Therefore, if we follow the path of Sustainability, tourism can truly transform Nagaland.
