Mizoram govt engages CYMA to streamline tourist surge, safeguard cultural identity
Aizawl: With tourist arrivals to Mizoram steadily increasing, the state’s Tourism Department on Friday held a meeting with leaders of the Central Young Mizo Association (CYMA) to discuss strategies for managing the influx while preserving local culture and social harmony.
The meeting, chaired by Tourism Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar, brought together senior department officials and CYMA representatives to explore coordinated efforts in tourist management, awareness campaigns, and community engagement.
Addressing the gathering, the minister described the rise in tourist numbers as a positive sign for the state’s economy and visibility but cautioned against potential negative impacts if not properly managed.
He noted that since the extension of railway connectivity to Sairang in September last year, Mizoram has seen a consistent increase in visitors, with over 8,000 tourists recorded last year and higher numbers expected this year.
He emphasised the need to balance hospitality with the protection of Mizo cultural values and community life, calling for stronger awareness initiatives.
The minister also stressed that tourism has the potential to become a major industry in the state if developed systematically, requiring collective responsibility from all stakeholders.
The CYMA leadership echoed similar concerns, stating that while tourists should be encouraged to enjoy their stay, there is a need to prevent behaviour that may inconvenience local residents.
The association proposed preparing clear guidelines outlining “dos and don’ts” for visitors, along with awareness efforts targeting both tourists and locals.
Discussions also focused on collaborative awareness campaigns between the government and CYMA, the dissemination of tourist information materials, and the government’s openness to incorporating suggestions from civil society groups.
Officials highlighted ongoing initiatives such as tour guide training programmes aimed at enhancing the visitor experience and promoting Mizoram’s unique attractions.
Other issues discussed included the regulation of homestays, improvements in the Inner Line Permit (ILP) and Protected Area Permit (PAP) systems, and the possibility of establishing local contact points through YMA branches to assist tourists in need.
Both sides expressed willingness to strengthen cooperation for the state’s development, with CYMA indicating that a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) may be considered to institutionalise the partnership.