DIMAPUR: On the occasion of World Tourism Day 2026, Commissioner & Secretary, Tourism, Government of Nagaland, Kovi Meyase, announced the declaration of Zhavame village, Phek, as a Digital Tourism Village.
Addressing the celebration programme at SHHSS, Chizami village, Meyase called for greater focus on rural tourism, stressing that digital technology and artificial intelligence can play a transformative role in unlocking the tourism potential of rural communities, a DIPR report stated.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” Meyase highlighted the need to embrace emerging technologies to reshape the tourism sector. He emphasised that rural areas possess immense potential owing to their unique culture, traditions, landscapes, indigenous knowledge and community based practices. He said digital platforms and AI can help rural destinations gain visibility, connect to wider markets and create new opportunities for local communities.
Encouraging communities to adapt to the changing digital tourism landscape, Meyase reiterated the declaration of Zhavame village as a Digital Tourism Village.
The programme featured cultural presentations and folk songs by the Chizami Students’ Union and Meselumi Students’ Union. It was organised by the Tourism Department, Government of Nagaland, in collaboration with the Chizami Range Students’ Union.
The event was chaired by Veyielo Doulo, director, Tourism Department. Invocation was pronounced by Diewetso Lohe, pastor, Sumi Village Baptist Church, while benediction was offered by Fr. Vekupa George, principal, SHHSS Chizami. The welcome address was delivered by Rukewete K. Edemi, convener CRSU, and the vote of thanks by Agumbe Nring, Tourist Officer, Phek.
