ZIRO : The Ziro Tourism Organisation (ZTO) and the Nagaland Tourism Association (NTA) have jointly advocated mandatory engagement of certified local tourist guides to promote sustainable tourism, preserve cultural heritage and create employment opportunities for local youth.

The proposal emerged during an interaction between members of the two organisations at Suchusi Homestay in Ziro on Saturday.

The NTA delegation was visiting Arunachal Pradesh as part of a Familiarisation (FAM) Tour aimed at exploring the state’s tourism potential and strengthening inter-state cooperation. The delegation had earlier interacted with tourism stakeholders in Namsai and Pasighat.

During the meeting, both organisations highlighted the crucial role of local tourist guides in enriching visitors’ experiences by introducing them to the region’s history, culture and natural heritage while encouraging responsible and respectful tourism.

ZTO Chairman Hibu Tatu, NTA Chairman Vimeto Vakha and NTA Secretary Aseba Kezo said engaging certified local guides would help maintain cultural authenticity, improve visitor safety and generate sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.

The two organisations also reaffirmed their commitment to working together to promote sustainable, community-based tourism across the Northeast while safeguarding the region’s cultural and natural heritage and supporting long-term economic growth.