The two-day Nagaland International Conference on Tourism, Transport & Logistics (NICTTL) commenced on Friday at Zone Naithu by the Park, Chümoukedima.
Organized by Business Association of Nagaland (BAN) and supported by the Ministry of MSME under the IC Scheme, the conference is themed “Empowering Nagaland, India through Connectivity and Sustainable Development.”
The event brought together key stakeholders from India and Southeast Asia to discuss sustainable development, infrastructure, and collaboration opportunities in the tourism, transport, and logistics sectors.
The first day of the conference revolved around the theme “Tourism as a Driver for Regional Growth.” The panel discussion on “Tourism as a Driver for Regional Development” was moderated by Thangi Manen, Advisor BAN and former secretary Tourism.
Japan’s role in State’s development: Speaking at the discussion, Second Secretary, Embassy of Japan, New Delhi, Ryuta Saito highlighted the historical connection between Japan and Nagaland and stressed the importance of future-oriented cooperation.
He mentioned Japan’s ongoing development projects in Nagaland under Official Development Assistance (ODA), including cancer hospitals and other initiatives. He also discussed the Technical Intern Training Program (TITP), which provides opportunities for Naga youths to work and gain skills in Japan.
Saito emphasized that 2025 marks the Japan-India Tourism Promotion Year, highlighting that 2.3 lakh Indians visited Japan last year, while only 1.4 lakh Japanese tourists visited India.
However, Nagaland remains largely unexplored by Japanese travelers, with limited knowledge abou
t the state beyond its association with the Battle of Kohima during World War II.
He revealed that two Japanese influencers recently visited Nagaland and created a tourism video showcasing the region’s cuisine and natural beauty. Encouraging Nagaland to market its unique culture and landscapes, he expressed Japan’s willingness to collaborate for tourism promotion.
Nagaland’s tourism potential: Secretary, department of Tourism, Nchumbemo Lotha highlighted Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes as untapped potential for global tourism.
He elaborated on the state’s new tourism policy, which emphasizes sustainability, community-centered development, and improved infrastructure. He also suggested relaxing the area permit for foreign tourists, stating that improved accessibility would boost tourism investments and strengthen the local economy.
Tourism investment and Hornbill Festival: Speaking on tourism investments, Advisor, Department of Industries & Commerce, Hekani Jakhalu acknowledged the Hornbill Festival as a successful tourism model, despite mixed public opinions.
She pointed out that in 2023, the government’s Rs. 6.5 crore investment in the festival generated Rs. 109 crore in revenue. Additionally, in 2024, a Rs. 15 crore investment in a Handloom & Handicraft Pavilion generated Rs. 3.13 crore in just 10 days, significantly benefiting local entrepreneurs and artisans.
Hekani also explained Nagaland’s financial constraints, highlighting that out of the Rs. 23,127 crore state budget in 2024: Rs. 16,893 crore was allocated to revenue expenditure (salaries, pensions, etc.); Rs. 4,243 crore towards debt servicing; Rs. 600 crore used for power purchases and only Rs. 2,591 crore (10% of the budget) was available for development work.
Comparing Nagaland’s tax and non-tax revenue with Assam, she revealed that while Assam generates Rs. 34,149 crore in non-tax revenue and Rs. 8,871 crore in tax revenue, Nagaland earns only Rs. 1,787 crore and Rs. 464 crore, respectively.
Hekani stressed the need for better collaboration between the government and the public, urging citizens to take responsibility for economic growth instead of solely blaming the government.
She also discussed the UNNATI scheme, aimed at promoting entrepreneurship. Despite awareness campaigns drawing 100 entrepreneurs, only two or three registered, which she attributed to a lack of proper documentation and compliance. She urged aspiring entrepreneurs to seek help in utilizing government schemes effectively.
Investment & infrastructure challenges: GM & National Head, Zone by the Park, Vikas Ahluwalia appreciated the Union Budget’s focus on tourism, calling it a positive step. He offered to partner with individuals or businesses interested in setting up hotels or resorts, assisting with operations and management.
However, he highlighted major marketing and accessibility challenges in Nagaland, noting that many potential tourists are unsure about travel requirements such as passports or Inner Line Permits (ILP). He urged the government to simplify these processes and promote Nagaland more effectively.
Ahluwalia also pointed out the issue of unorganized tourism, stressing the need for regulations, certification, training, and skill development.
Responsible tourism & environmental sustainability: Founder Member & honorary president, Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI), Rakesh Mathur identified plastic waste and pollution as major concerns in tourism. He noted that the hotel and tourism industries contribute significantly to carbon emissions and called for sustainable practices.
Mathur warned against over-tourism, suggesting carrying capacity studies and alternative destinations to prevent overcrowding. He also raised concerns about road safety, proposing a ban on liquor vans on highways.
To enforce eco-friendly tourism, Mathur recommended creating an eco-tourism board responsible for policy enforcement, guidelines, and monitoring tourism activities.
Nagaland’s tourism growth vs. other NE states: President, Nagaland Association of Tour Operators, Kejaroko Pieru compared Nagaland’s tourism industry to Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, and Kaziranga (Assam), stating that Nagaland still lags behind in infrastructure and strategic planning.
He praised the Nagaland Tourism Connect Scheme but emphasized the need for better accommodations and homestays, as the state is not yet a five-star destination. He also stressed that a successful tourism industry requires three key elements: amenities, accessibility, and attractions.
Bhutan’s tourism model & lessons for Nagaland: Chairman, Guides Association of Bhutan (Thimphu), Garab Dorji highlighted the importance of well-trained tour guides, revealing that 70% of tourists in Bhutan learn about the country through word of mouth, driven by guides’ influence.
He explained that Bhutan mandates 60% forest cover under its Constitution, ensuring environmental preservation and cultural integrity. He also emphasized Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness model, prioritizing contentment over economic gain.
Dorji stressed that Bhutan’s hospitality, Buddhist values, and sustainable tourism policies make it a global attraction, and Nagaland could benefit from adopting similar approaches.
Later in the afternoon, the following sessions were conducted– Responsible Tourism Presentation by Rakesh Mathur (RTSOI); workshop on Digital Presence for Tourism Business by founder, Kikonik Tech Pvt Ltd & Kley Enterprise Yanpvuo Kikon; PPT presentation on “Unveiling Nagaland – Exploring the Hidden Gem” by Thangi Manen.
The event also featured an inaugural speech by BAN president, L. Mongkum Jamir and a keynote address by convenor MSME, BAN, Benthungo Kithan.
The second day of the conference is expected to further deliberate on logistics, infrastructure, and investment opportunities to empower Nagaland’s tourism industry.