KHONSA, SEP 27:

World Tourism Day 2026 was celebrated in Tirap district with trekking, awareness and creative activities aimed at promoting sustainable, eco-friendly and responsible tourism.

The programme was organised jointly by the Department of Tourism and the Department of Urban Affairs, Tirap, in line with this year’s theme, “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism”, highlighting the role of technology and innovation in shaping the future of tourism.

A major highlight was a trekking expedition to the San-Paa-Kong Trek near Kheti village, located about 3 km from the village and 6 km from Khonsa headquarters. The trail offered participants an opportunity to explore the area’s natural beauty and eco-tourism potential.

The trek was led by Tirap Deputy Commissioner Badonlum Tawsik, along with District Tourism Officer Rigio Tabam, Assistant Engineer (Urban Affairs) Deksar Boje, Executive Engineer (RWD) Walat Hondiq, administrative officers and staff of the DC office, GPC Kheti village, content creators and trekking enthusiasts. Mountaineers Kampo Matey and Miatliam Wangsa also participated.

Interacting with participants, the Deputy Commissioner urged them to act as responsible tourists by respecting nature, avoiding littering and helping preserve pristine locations for future generations.

A photography and reel-making competition was also organised to encourage participants to capture and share the scenic beauty of the area through digital platforms. A Swachh Bharat Abhiyan activity further reinforced the importance of cleanliness and environmental responsibility at tourist sites.

The celebration also sensitised participants and local communities to sustainable tourism practices and the need to preserve Tirap’s natural and cultural heritage.

The programme concluded with a collective resolve to promote the district as a vibrant and sustainable tourism destination while making responsible use of digital tools and emerging technologies.