Indian Express Online Media (IEOMSL) is thrilled to introduce the inaugural Green Tourism India Conclave 2023 (GTIC2023). This event is designed to champion Responsible Tourism initiatives in the Northeastern region of India. Scheduled for October 19, 2023, the daylong conclave will take place at the State Convention Centre in Shillong. The event is supported by the Ministry of Tourism (MoT), the Government of India, and the tourism departments of Northeastern states, with Meghalaya Tourism serving as the Presenting Partner.

The Northeast of India is celebrated for its awe-inspiring natural beauty and ecological diversity. However, the region demands a unique approach to tourism that respects the environment and local communities. Responsible Tourism is the path forward, and the Green Tourism India Conclave aims to foster discussions, stimulate innovative ideas, and establish a roadmap for the future of tourism in the Northeast.

This day-long event will convene essential stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. These stakeholders encompass tour operators, hoteliers, community tourism leaders, practitioners, and domain experts. The participants will include individuals and organizations based in the Northeast as well as those with expertise in the region from across India.

The conclave will also align with the ‘Travel for LiFE’ program, introduced by the Ministry of Tourism under Mission LiFE. This initiative aims to induce significant behavioral changes among tourists and tourism businesses, with a substantial impact on environmental conservation and climate action.

Bah Paul Lyngdoh, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya, will grace the event as the chief guest. Dr. Vijay Kumar D, IAS, Commissioner and Secretary of the Tourism Department, Government of Meghalaya, and Mr. Cyril V. D. Diengdoh, Director of Tourism, Government of Meghalaya, and MD of MTDC, will also address the distinguished gathering.

The event will feature a performance by Da Thymmei, a local cultural group from Meghalaya. There will also be a presentation of a case study titled ‘Tourism in Meghalaya: Challenges & Opportunities’ by Gerald Samuel Duia, General Secretary of the Tour Operators Association of Meghalaya (TOAM) and General Secretary of the Tour Guides Association of Meghalaya (TGAM).

Several riveting panel discussions are planned, including on the following topics:

  • The Great Outdoors: What Makes the Northeast the Perfect Destination for Adventure and Eco-Tourism
  • Community Tourism and Homestays in the Northeast: How Well Has the Model Worked?
  • Luxury Tourism: Is High-Value, Low-Impact Responsible Tourism the Way Forward for the Northeast?
  • Tourism in the Northeast: Opportunities, Challenges, Solutions, and the Road Ahead

Featuring the active engagement of prominent tourism players from Northeastern India, alongside senior government officials and expert panelists from across the nation, the Green Tourism India Conclave is poised to be a stimulating and results-driven event that will influence the trajectory of tourism in the Northeast.

This Conclave also underscores the dedication of Indian Express Online Media and FinancialExpress.com to fostering meaningful dialogues on vital topics, encompassing sustainability.