Tourism in Assam and NE: A gateway to economic prosperity and cultural enrichment

Dipak Kurmi

(The writer can be reached at dipakkurmiglpltd@gmail.com)

The Northeast region of India, with its picturesque landscapes, rich cultural
heritage, and diverse ethnic communities, is increasingly drawing both domestic and international tourists. Assam, a key state in this region, has traditionally been a hidden gem, known for its natural beauty, lush green tea gardens, and unique cultural offerings. Over the last few years, tourism has evolved into a vital sector that holds great potential for economic growth in Assam and the broader Northeast region. Improvements in infrastructure, particularly in connectivity, along with policies aimed at showcasing the region’s tourism potential, have paved the way for a significant increase in footfall to these destinations. However, this development brings with it the need for careful planning and sustainable practices to prevent long-term environmental and social consequences.

The Growing Footfall in the Northeast: The surge in tourist numbers across the Northeast is driven by several factors. Improved road and air connectivity within the region, supported by both state and central government initiatives, has made it easier for travellers to explore its remote areas. In addition, India’s policies aimed at deepening bilateral and multilateral ties with neighbouring countries, with the Northeast as a central focus, promise an increase in foreign tourist arrivals in the future. Tourists from outside the region seek to escape their everyday routines, finding solace in the scenic beauty of destinations like Kaziranga, Tawang, and Majuli. This growing footfall has led to significant growth in the hospitality sector, including hotels, lodges, and, more notably, homestays.

Homestays and Local Tourism: Homestays have become increasingly popular in the Northeast as they provide cultural tourists an opportunity to experience the region’s tangible and intangible heritage. These accommodations offer a unique chance to engage with multi-ethnic societies while immersing in the region’s natural beauty. Homestays also serve as weekend getaways for local residents from nearby towns, contributing to the overall growth of tourism in the region.

However, this surge in tourism has also highlighted the need to assess the carrying capacities of these destinations. Overcrowding at popular spots and the uncontrolled proliferation of homestays and other accommodations could have adverse consequences if the threshold limit of tourist numbers is exceeded. Realistic assessments, including consultations with local stakeholders such as village residents, hotel and lodge owners, tour operators, and local authorities, are critical in determining sustainable levels of tourism that balance economic growth with environmental and social well-being.

Sustainable Tourism and Environmental Concerns: Tourism in the Northeast has provided economic benefits to local communities, particularly through job creation and the promotion of agricultural and horticultural products. The demand for locally grown fruits and vegetables in hotels, lodges, and homestays has created a niche market for local farmers. However, this increasing demand has also led to shortages in some areas, where local residents have been unable to access sufficient nutritious food due to higher tourist consumption. This situation highlights the importance of finding a balance between tourism growth and local needs.

Sustainability is a critical consideration when expanding tourism in an ecologically fragile region like the Northeast. Excessive tourism can lead to environmental degradation, as seen in other Himalayan states like Uttarakhand and Sikkim, where landslides and soil erosion have become increasingly common. The Northeast’s rich organic farming traditions should be preserved, even as efforts are made to increase agricultural productivity. Replacing these sustainable practices with chemical fertilisers to meet the demands of the hospitality industry could have disastrous effects on the region’s soil health and resilience against climate change.

The Role of Connectivity in Tourism Development: Improved connectivity has been a driving force behind the recent growth in tourism across the Northeast. The construction of new highways, the expansion of railway lines, and the development of airports have opened up previously inaccessible areas to tourists. Furthermore, the development of waterways connecting remote tourism destinations, such as those along the Brahmaputra River, has added to the region’s appeal. However, it is essential to proceed with caution, learning from the environmental consequences of overtourism in other regions. Policymakers must undertake comprehensive studies on the carrying capacities of tourism destinations before pushing large infrastructure projects.

Economic Impact of Tourism in Assam and the Northeast: Tourism has the potential to become a major economic driver in Assam, contributing to the overall development of the state. While tourism is not yet widely recognised as a significant income-generating sector in Assam, the government is beginning to realise the opportunities it presents. With effective marketing strategies and the promotion of Assam’s cultural and natural assets, tourism could become a key player in the state’s economy.

Several neighbouring countries, such as Bhutan, Nepal, and Thailand, have successfully leveraged their cultural and ethnic heritage to boost their tourism industries. Assam and the Northeast possess similar potential, with their unique blend of traditions, landscapes, and biodiversity. To fully tap into this potential, a comprehensive and coordinated approach to tourism development is needed. This includes not only building tourist infrastructure but also ensuring that the local population benefits from tourism through job creation, entrepreneurship, and income generation.

Challenges and Solutions for Assam’s Tourism Industry: One of the biggest challenges facing Assam’s tourism industry is the lack of awareness and understanding about its potential. Many people in the region are unaware of how tourism can drive economic growth and promote unity among diverse communities. The first step toward addressing this challenge is through effective marketing and promotion of Assam’s tourism resources. Social media, websites, and traditional media channels can play a vital role in attracting tourists to the state.

Another key challenge is the state’s underdeveloped infrastructure, particularly in terms of transportation and communication. A robust road and transport network is essential for tourism growth, as tourists are less likely to visit places that are difficult to access. Cleanliness and hygiene in tourist areas also play a crucial role in ensuring a positive visitor experience. Municipalities and village panchayats must take responsibility for maintaining the cleanliness of their areas to create a welcoming environment for tourists.

To overcome these challenges, collaboration among various government departments and stakeholders is essential. The tourism department alone cannot develop the sector; it requires the cooperation of other departments, such as transport, agriculture, and municipal authorities. By working together, these stakeholders can create a comprehensive strategy that addresses all aspects of tourism development, from infrastructure and cleanliness to marketing and community engagement.

Recent Tourism Developments in Assam and the Northeast: In recent years, the Assam government has taken several steps to promote tourism in the state and the broader Northeast region. Projects like the development of river tourism along the Brahmaputra River, the promotion of eco-tourism in Kaziranga and Manas National Parks, and the enhancement of homestay facilities in rural areas have attracted a growing number of tourists. Additionally, initiatives such as the Northeast Tourism Policy, launched by the central government, aim to promote sustainable tourism practices across the region.

The growing interest in rural and eco-tourism has also contributed to the rise in tourism in the region. Tourists are increasingly seeking authentic experiences that allow them to engage with local communities and explore the natural beauty of the countryside. This trend has led to the development of new tourism products, such as village tours, agro-tourism, and cultural festivals, which offer tourists a chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant traditions and lifestyles of the Northeast. Events like the Ambubachi Mela in Assam and the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland have already gained international recognition, drawing visitors from around the world. By tapping into these cultural assets, the Northeast can further distinguish itself as a unique destination for experiential tourism.

Future Prospects and Conclusion: Looking ahead, Assam and the Northeast are poised to become key players in India’s tourism landscape. However, to fully realise this potential, a balance must be struck between development and sustainability. Careful planning, infrastructure improvement, and community involvement will be essential to ensuring that the region’s tourism growth benefits both its economy and its people while preserving the natural and cultural heritage that makes the region so special.

The Northeast has the opportunity to position itself as a premier tourist destination in India, offering travellers a blend of untouched landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and vibrant communities. By fostering sustainable tourism practices and involving local populations in the development process, Assam and the broader Northeast can unlock new avenues for economic prosperity and cultural enrichment.