In March 2023, the B20 Conference of the G20 Presidency provided Mizoram with a golden opportunity to flaunt its rich cultural heritage and tourist destinations, ranging from historic spots, monuments, and religious places to picturesque hills, majestic mountains, wildlife sanctuaries, etc to international tourists and delegates. Mizoram was able to showcase these wonderful offerings because it has had a Responsible Tourism Policy in place since 2020. 

The policy focuses on making tourism a tool for the development of villages and local communities, eradicating poverty, and providing a livelihood for the local population while upholding the principles of economic, social, and environmental responsibilities. The policy also aims to catalyse growth in eco and adventure tourism.

The Mizoram Registration of Tourist Trade Act 2020 was also enacted to introduce a proper regulatory framework for suitable development of the tourism sector. The Act provides for the registration of tourism service providers within the state.

Presently there are 70 registered hotels, 63 homestays, 10 tour operators, 40 travel agents, 657 registered restaurants and tea stalls, and 22 catering units in the state.

Promoting local tourism and community empowerment
Mizoram Tourism recognises the importance of integrating local communities into the tourism value chain, ensuring that they reap the benefits of tourism while preserving their unique cultural heritage.

Green Tourism
The guiding principles of Mizoram’s Responsible Tourism Policy 2020 have created a ripple-like effect. In a recent move the Government of Mizoram, Tourism Department has been pleased to notify ‘Khamrang Responsible Tourism Rules 2023’ which was formulated by the Khamrang Tourism Promotion Committee to serve as guidelines for visitors for smart tourism in Khamrang. What has underpinned this approval has been Khamrang enhancing the economic well-being of the local community without compromising the integrity of the environment minimizing the economic, social, cultural, and environmental negative effects of mass tourism, and promoting the respect of its local cultures and heritages.

Mizoram Tourism has taken significant steps to promote sustainable tourism with the green tourism initiative at Khamrang, a project under the Ministry of DoNER. This Project has made remarkable progress in improving cleanliness and sanitation in the village.

Infrastructure development 
Recognizing the integral role of infrastructure in facilitating travel and promoting economic growth, Mizoram has made significant strides in enhancing its transportation networks, accommodation facilities, and tourist amenities. These infrastructural developments not only enhance the overall visitor experience but also contribute to the sustainable growth of Mizoram’s tourism industry, positioning the State as a preferred destination for travellers. Hosting the B20 Conference of G20 meetings helped Mizoram Tourism gain prominence at the national and global level and positioned it to carve a niche for the state on the world tourism map.

Harnessing technology for sustainable tourism
Innovations like smart tourism management systems, and tourism immersive hubs – AR and VR with digital platforms for local artisans and craftsmen have come up to promote tourism in the State. These technological advancements will not only create a more efficient and enjoyable travel experience but also contribute to the preservation of cultural and natural heritage.

Deeper awareness and capacity building through Yuva Tourism Clubs
Mizoram was one of the first states in India to introduce Yuva Tourism Clubs in Schools and Colleges. These clubs played a pivotal role in the International Tourism Mart 2022 which was successfully held in Aizawl, Mizoram. The services rendered by the members of Yuva Tourism Clubs during the International Tourism Mart 2022 was remarkable and deserved applaud

The state tourism department generated a revenue of Rs 297.67 lakh during the 2022-23 fiscal, nearly 50 percent more than what it earned in the preceding fiscal. The tourism department’s revenue in 2021-22 was Rs 149.79 lakh, while it was Rs 38.39 lakh in 2020-21 and Rs 305.70 lakh in 2019-20.

    
Although the tourist footfall was minimal during the Covid pandemic, it rose from 20,564 in 2020-21 to 1.32 lakh in 2021-22 and further to 2.22 lakh in 2022-23.

For more details about Green Tourism India Conclave, Click here.