North East to get major focus in terms of post COVID opportunities

Saturday, March 20, 2021

Jitendra Singh, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, has recently explained that there was an instant need to access the post-Covid opportunities in tourism in India, mainly the North East.

To quote Singh, “North East can offer an alternative to some of the European destinations that many regular tourists may find less preferable in the immediate aftermath of the high coronavirus prevalence over there.”

While talking with the representatives of various tourist and transport bodies, Singh mentioned that the opportunity is knocking at “our doors. Now, it is up to us as how we are all geared up to avail of this opportunity in the best way possible.

“If in this season we are able to ensure a boost in our tourist inflow, it will set a trend for the following years,” he added.

Singh stated that the North Eastern region in spite of having popular destinations in Meghalaya, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh fail sufficiently to make the most of the opportunities of tourism due to lack of support from the Centre and low prioritization from successive Governments.

Developing the connectivity to the various parts of the North East will offer a boost up to the sector.
“Tourists landing at Guwahati airport today prefer to go to Shillong and other destinations in Meghalaya by road rather by other means simply to relish the joy of a picturesque journey,” Singh said.

Laying stress on the three main components of tourism, like holiday makers, medical tourists and filmmakers, Singh mentioned about a decision to set up in Sikkim a film studio and the upcoming Film and Television Institute in Arunachal Pradesh.

“In the last six years, Guwahati has developed as one of the best Super Specialty Healthcare destinations and this aspect needs to be propagated not only in the neighbouring States but also in the countries across eastern border like Myanmar, Bhutan and Nepal who would realize the option of easier treatment with cost-effective medical care,” the Minister said.

« Back to Page

• Over 11,000 Moroccan fans to visit Russia for FIFA World Cup, limited travel for North East