The term "tourism" was first introduced in the 19th century and since then this term was associated with many other terms. Among all the other terms, the most commonly used is "Sustainable Tourism".
United Nations World Trade Organization (UNWTO) defined Sustainable Tourism as "Tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities".
Sustainable Tourism is a need in present times because the increased flow of tourists has adversely affected the environment. So, the aim of Sustainable Tourism should be to protect and preserve host regions, address needs of both present and future generation and enhance opportunities for the future.
In the recent times, the scope of sustainable tourism has extended manifold. The recent developments in this sector are: rural tourism, agri-tourism, volunteer tourism etc. All these developments have created lots of opportunities for people.
Relevance of sustainable tourism in the North East
North East India is a beautiful paradise and even today its beauty is unexplored. If proper measures are taken, then North East India will accumulate enough revenue from tourists. In recent years, North East India including Assam has become a hub for tourists. Its mesmerizing and untouched greenery enchants tourists. Nature has blessed the North Eastern States of India immensely with varied flora and fauna, mysterious clouds, folk music, folk dance, cuisines, landscape, mountains, myths. This region has always been a hub of fascination.
It is to be noted that each North Eastern State is different from the other in terms of its uniqueness. So, the tourism resources, too, varies. The accessibility, remoteness and some other factors make tourism in North Eastern States little difficult. As a matter of fact, tourism of this region did not reach the national level.
There are lots of National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Assam but the areas surrounding these parks and sanctuaries are either not regulated properly or they have seen the least development. There are many tourist destinations in this part of India and it is quite important to develop some circuits so that these areas develop well. Some of the tourism resources of the North East include its heritage especially the tribal culture. Many international tourist visit north east to know more about the tribal people and their culture. And it is quite fascinating that the culture is still intact. With more and more international tourist, a lot of development has taken place and along with many opportunities have come up which helps the tribal community to some extent.
Bamboo and handloom are quite in demand internationally. But tourism, at present, does not focus that well on the local art and craft. If proper initiatives are taken then there would be more exposure. The more the exposure, the more developed these regions would be.
Fairs and festivals also hold a special tourist attraction. For example- the Hornbill Festival of Nagaland attracts a lot of tourist and this festival reflects its strong cultural heritage. Some other tourist attractions are: trekking, jungle safari, adventurous activities, mountaineering, ornithological tour, pilgrimage tour, tea garden tour etc to name a few.
The tourist industry is the largest service providing industry. Sustainability is closely related to economic and social changes. The rivers Brahmaputra and the Barak, thick jungle tracks, and heavy monsoons have together shaped the ecology, lifestyle and economy of North East India. In short, North East India is an amalgamation of different races, culture. As per report, tourism has increased steadily in North East since 2005.
Among all the north eastern states, Assam attracts the largest number of tourists. The two most famous tourist spots are the Kamakhya Temple and the Kaziranga National Park. Another reason for the maximum tourist attraction is that Assam is the gateway of the North East region except Sikkim. Nagaland is the least visited tourist destination among all. Maximum foreign tourists gather at Sikkim followed by Assam.
But it is to be noted that there is a common misconception among people that North East India is highly unsafe. Hence, many international tourists are discouraged to visit the beautiful abode- North East India. People do not know about the actual situation prevailing in these states.
To make sustainable tourism successful, one must address the problems of tourism. If these areas of problems are properly addressed then undoubtedly the entire north eastern region including Assam will flourish in tourism. Some of these problems are: Security Threats, accessibility, transportation, accommodation, hygienic food, tourist facilities, tourist information system, exposure, brand image, system of permit. Proper awareness is required for proper exposure to tourist.
A brief review on tourism spots of Assam and North East:
Mawlynnong, Meghalaya: This village is the cleanest in the whole of Asia. The village dwellers are fond of cleanliness and are conscious about conserving forest. It is one of the places where sustainable tourism has brought positive impact.
Umden, Meghalaya: This place is the sericulture hub of Meghalaya. The villagers rear silkworms and produce and weave eri silk. People living here still live in bamboo huts. In recent times, many travelers visited this and if properly exposed then it will generate revenue and create opportunities.
Majuli in Assam is the largest riverine island in India. Tourism increased here and every year it attracts lots of people.
Nameri National Park is a great spot for bird watching. In recent years, tourism has increased here.
Namphake in Assam is a place inhabited by the Tai-Phake tribe. These tribal people are followers of Buddhism and also they have a monastery here. But many people are unaware of it.
Touphema in Nagaland is a good spot for community based tourism. Preservation of community resources is important here as well.
Loktak Lake in Manipur is another ecotourism destination of North East India.
Dzongu in North Sikkim is another one. It is the only Lepcha reserve in India. As tourism is more in Sikkim so a lot on their culture, cuisine came into light.
What is the prospect of Sustainable Tourism?
The North East India has a lot of potential in terms of tourism. The rich natural beauty of this region has attracted new breed of travelers who prefer uniqueness. If North East states are compared to other states of India then it is backward but the potentiality of tourism can make it a rich. This is because tourism generates income. New businesses may come up which is closely related to tourism. Local business under sustainable tourism is to be considered. Bamboo production, handicraft production, will benefit local artisans directly. Some of the famous products such as Muga products of Assam, carpets of Arunachal Pradesh, shawls of Mizoram and Nagaland, Lashingphee of Manipur, which, if given, a worldwide recognition will take the tourism of North East India to another level.
There can be many issues to sustainable tourism, but if addressed properly, then the issues can be overcome and Assam and the North East India can be a hub of tourism that not only flourishes but sustains the local communities and resources.
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