Arunachal Pradesh Cultural Affairs Minister Dasanglu Pul emphasized that women-led rural tourism efforts hold immense potential to foster cultural exchange, sustainable growth, and regional ties across the Himalayan Buddhist region.
Speaking at a regional workshop on the ‘Development of the Buddhist Circuit in Northeast India’ in Tawang, Pul highlighted the vital role of women in rural and tribal areas. These women preserve oral histories, handicrafts, local cuisines, festivals, and rituals, she noted.
Empowering Communities Through Tourism
Pul stated that involving women in tourism projects safeguards cultural heritage, creates income sources, and strengthens local communities. She praised plans to link Northeast India’s Buddhist sites with those in Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka via a women-led rural tourism approach.
The event gathered representatives from Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Assam, and Sikkim to discuss enhanced cooperation and sustainable tourism rooted in shared Buddhist traditions.
Arunachal’s Rich Tourism Landscape
Showcasing the state’s appeal as the ‘Land of the Rising Sun,’ Pul pointed to key spiritual hubs like Tawang, Mechukha, and the Golden Pagoda in Namsai. The government pledges support for working women through skills training, micro-finance, infrastructure upgrades, and online promotion of local experiences.
She called for deeper tourism and cultural bonds with neighboring Buddhist countries to attract more international visitors and build stronger interpersonal links.
Workshop Key Discussions
Participants heard speeches from country delegates and joined technical sessions on regional ties, connectivity, branding, and women-led rural tourism. Groups also identified major Buddhist heritage sites.
Officials view the workshop as a pivotal move to advance collaboration and tap Northeast India’s tourism prospects through inclusive, eco-friendly strategies.
