The District Administration, West Kameng, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism and the Rupa Tourism Society (RTS), celebrated World Tourism Day with great enthusiasm and gaiety at Rupa Market on Saturday.
Delivering the welcome address, District Tourism Officer T.W. Thongdok briefed the gathering on the significance of World Tourism Day and highlighted this year’s theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism.”
Attending the event as the Chief Guest, MLA of Kalaktang Assembly Constituency, Shri Tseten Chombey, stressed the need to promote lesser known destinations such as Rupa and other tourism rich locations in the district.
He highlighted Rupa’s rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality, and pleasant climate, stating that the township has the potential to emerge as one of the finest tourist destinations in the region.
The MLA also lauded the Indian Army for its continuous support and contributions towards the development of the Rupa area.
He further outlined his vision and plans for strengthening tourism infrastructure and promoting tourism activities in the region.
On the occasion, Chombey officially launched the Rupa Tourism Society (RTS) and released tourism information pamphlets showcasing the attractions and information about the Rupa region.
He also administered the Nasha Mukht Bharat pledge, reaffirming the commitment of the participants towards a drug-free society
Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Commissioner, West Kameng, Dr. Dilip Kumar, stated that the District Administration remains committed to promoting tourism in the district and that celebrating World Tourism Day in Rupa reflects this commitment.
He noted that West Kameng possesses immense tourism potential and emphasized the importance of proper planning and sustainable development while creating and promoting tourist destinations. He also urged all stakeholders to make every event plastic-free by avoiding single-use plastic items such as water bottles, cups, plates, etc.
The Deputy Commissioner further appealed to the public to adopt proper waste segregation practices using the four-colour dustbin system and called for collective efforts to keep the township clean and environmentally sustainable.
The RTS President Tenzin Wangmu Musabi spoke on the objectives behind the formation of the Rupa Tourism Society and emphasized its role in promoting and developing the tourism potential of the area.
Referring to the success story of Shergaon as one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the region, she called upon the people of Rupa to work collectively towards achieving similar growth in tourism.
She also informed the public about new traffic management measures, including one-way vehicular movement along the market road and the introduction of a vehicle-free market zone every Saturday. The initiative aims to provide visitors and tourists with a more enjoyable and pedestrian-friendly experience while exploring the market area. District Informatics Officer Abhisek Raj delivered a presentation on the Yakatopia Tourism App, highlighting its features and benefits in providing tourists with easy access to information about the district. He also demonstrated a tutorial video of the application. SDPO Kalaktang, meanwhile, created awareness about the Yodha-Bandu and Choo-Man-Tar mobile applications among the public.
Colonel Sandeep Chandel of the 5 Mountain Division appreciated the scenic beauty and tourism potential of West Kameng, describing it as one of the most beautiful regions in the country. He suggested measures for the further growth of tourism in the region and assured all possible support from the Indian Army towards tourism promotion initiatives.
Four-colour dustbins were also distributed for Rupa Market by the District Urban Development Agency (DUDA).
Members of the Manchin Self-Help Group highlighted their ongoing efforts to maintain cleanliness in the township and distributed cotton bags to taxi drivers, NGOs, hotel owners, and homestay operators. The bags are intended to help collect wrappers and other waste materials for proper disposal. Several tourism stakeholders also shared their experiences, initiatives, and future plans aimed at promoting tourism in the region.
During the event, winners of the marathon race in both the boys’ and girls’ categories, organised under the Nasha Mukht Bharat Abhiyan, were felicitated.
Individuals and organizations that contributed to the successful celebration of World Tourism Day were also honoured.
Self-Help Groups set up stalls along the streets of Rupa Market, showcasing a variety of locally produced items and traditional products.
Colourful cultural performances presented by various organisations added vibrancy to the celebration and showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Rupa region.
Earlier in the morning, a plantation drive was also carried out in Rupa town under the banner of “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam.”
The programme was attended by the Superintendent of Police, West Kameng, Admin Officers, Heads of Departments, PRI leaders, NGOs, SHGs, senior citizens, retired officers, tourism stakeholders, teachers, students,
and others.
