ZIRO, SEP 12:

With the Ziro Festival of Music (ZFM) 2026 scheduled from September 24 to 27, the district administration held a preparatory meeting with local homestay owners at the Mini Secretariat Building here on Saturday to coordinate arrangements for the expected influx of visitors.

Chairing the meeting, Ziro Sub-Divisional Officer Hage Tarung underscored the role of homestay hosts in shaping visitors’ experience and Ziro’s reputation as a tourist destination. He stressed the need to maintain hygiene, parking and fire-safety standards and urged hosts to be patient and considerate towards guests returning late from festival venues.

Tarung also suggested that homestays create dedicated spaces to showcase and sell authentic Apatani handloom and handicrafts, enabling visitors to experience the local culture while generating additional income for local artisans.

In-charge District Tourism Officer Khoda Yakang Millo emphasised sustainable tourism practices, particularly the reduction of single-use plastics, in line with the goal of making Ziro a “Zero Waste Ziro”.

She also advised homestay owners to maintain proper guest registers, submit Tourist Arrival Reports on time and ensure timely filing of Form-C for foreign visitors through the police department. Owners were further reminded to keep first-aid kits stocked and emergency contact numbers prominently displayed.

Millo highlighted the achievement of Lempia Ude Homestay, whose owner Rubu Ampi shared her practical hospitality practices that helped the property secure the government’s top Diamond Category rating.

District Art and Culture Officer Tapi Rimu, Trade Development Officer Tai Arun and officials from various departments also attended the meeting.

The meeting concluded with officials and homestay owners resolving to work together to provide visitors with a safe, welcoming and memorable festival experience while preserving Ziro’s environment and cultural heritage. (DIPR)