Editor,
Recent funding project initiated by the Central Government specifically to boost the tourism sector in the state emerged as a great achievement by the state government to emphasize on the Tourism sector.
Despite the initiatives by the government to boost and promote tourism in the state, I felt the need for these to focus and implement strategies for boosting the economy and contribution of the state through tourism.
Various ways in which the government can efficiently utilise the funds on sustainable practices in the tourism Sector, focusing areas on ecotourism and green infrastructure, cultural and heritage conservation, promote sustainability-focused campaigns to raise visitor awareness, such as “Leave No Trace” or local stewardship programs, include challenge-based project selection, where innovative operators pitch sustainable tourism ideas for funding allocation like PRIME Meghalaya under CM Elevate tourism sector scheme, minimize waste generation by promoting recycling, composting, and reducing single-use plastics, natural and biodegradable products in all hotels, restaurants and home stays, hire and train local staff, and source goods from local businesses, fair rate of prices, invest in restoring heritage sites and sharing their stories responsibly, develop and recommend hotels, restaurants, and tour agencies with eco-certifications and protection and safety initiatives by the government to all tourist.
The importance of sustainable tourism is growing as people become more aware of the threat of climate change. There is also heightened awareness of the social upheaval caused by the growth of a location’s tourism industry. Funds can be effectively and efficiently allocated for sustainable practices in the tourism industry of the state.
Archie Rymbai
Via e-mail
