State-Level World Tourism Day Celebrated in Dima Hasao for First Time

 Haflong, Sept 27: Assam Tourism Department on Sunday organised the state-level celebration of World Tourism Day for the first time in Dima Hasao district, choosing the picturesque hill town of Umrangso as the venue to showcase the region’s rich tourism potential.

The programme highlighted the natural beauty of Umrangso, with its hills, forests, water bodies and rich biodiversity, while emphasising the scope for developing Dima Hasao as a major tourism destination in Assam.

Tourism Minister Ajanta Neog, addressing the gathering, stressed the need to promote Umrangso and other tourist destinations of Dima Hasao among visitors from across the country and abroad. She said tourism development could create new employment opportunities for local youth and contribute to the growth of sectors such as hospitality, transport, restaurants, handicrafts and traditional cultural activities.

A public discussion held at the golf course at Newtuangbung village in Umrangso focused on the district’s tourism prospects, sustainable tourism and the need to preserve its natural and cultural heritage. Speakers stressed that environmental protection, cleanliness and responsible tourism must remain integral to future tourism development.

The discussions also explored the emerging relationship between technology and tourism. Two key themes taken up during the programme were “Reimagining Tourism through Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence” and “Hill Tourism in Assam: The Way Forward.”

Umrangso, known for its scenic hills, forests and water bodies, has emerged as an important tourist destination in Dima Hasao. The arrival of migratory birds during the winter season further enhances its appeal to nature lovers and visitors.

The speakers noted that sustainable promotion of Umrangso could strengthen the local economy while creating livelihood opportunities for communities associated with tourism. The development of tourism infrastructure, along with protection of the environment, was identified as essential for ensuring long-term benefits.

A number of programmes were organised as part of the World Tourism Day celebrations, including a cleanliness drive, tree plantation, marathon and a cultural evening.

Dima Hasao Autonomous Council Chief Executive Member Debolal Gorlosa, Haflong MLA Rupali Langthasa, Assam Government Commissioner and Secretary for Tourism, Home and Political Affairs Diganta Bora, along with senior officials and other distinguished guests, attended the state-level celebration.

The event marked an important step towards placing Dima Hasao, particularly Umrangso, more prominently on Assam’s tourism map and promoting the district’s natural, cultural and ecological attractions to a wider audience.