Agartala, September 27, 2024: In a resounding call for peace as a prerequisite for the growth of tourism, Governor Indra Sena Nallu on Friday emphasized the undeniable connection between peace and tourism development during the World Tourism Day celebrations in Tripura. This year’s theme, ‘Tourism and Peace’, was at the heart of the official proceedings, which included a cycle rally and peace procession organized by the Tripura Tourism Development Corporation.

Governor Nallu launched the event by releasing white balloons, symbolizing peace, at the Ujjayanta Palace premises in Agartala city. Joining him at the occasion were Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury and Managing Director of the Tripura Tourism Development Corporation, Prashant Badal Negi.

“Tourism thrives on peace,” said Governor Nallu in his address. “Without peace, there can be no development—neither of a state nor of its tourism industry. If there is unrest at home, in the village, or across the state, the tourism sector collapses.”

Reflecting on the evolution of tourism, the Governor remarked, “Fifty or sixty years ago, people would travel far and wide to visit fairs. That dynamic has changed over time. Today, tourists leave their homes not just to see, but to learn—to immerse themselves in new cultures, cuisines, clothing, and even agricultural work or wildlife. This is how tourism progresses, slowly but steadily.”

As tourism expands, said the Governor, there’s a growing need for infrastructure, including hotels and lodges, which in turn fosters employment and boosts income. “This is how tourism becomes an industry,” he noted, while stressing the core message: “But the foundation of this industry is peace.”

Governor Nallu also touched upon the issue of the unrest in Manipur, pointing out that peace is paramount to sustaining tourism. “If peace prevails, tourism will thrive, incomes will rise, and economic development will accelerate,” he asserted. 

Calling Tripura a hidden gem for tourism, he said, “Tripura is a tourism hotspot, and our own Gomti River is no less magnificent than the Godavari. To boost tourism, I recommend setting up cottages in small villages and block levels. Many come here for work, and they can be accommodated in these places.”

He further emphasized the potential for eco-tourism in the state. “There’s an old saying in our culture about the importance of treating guests well. In tourism, it is important that we promote a sense of kinship with visitors.” In closing, he urged, “Know yourself, and help others to know you.”

Tourism Minister Sushanta Chowdhury also highlighted the state’s efforts to promote tourism on this occasion. “We have organized various programs to celebrate World Tourism Day, but the main event will be held at Rabindra Bhavan,” he said.

Chowdhury also revealed a compassionate gesture by cricket legend and Tripura’s tourism brand ambassador, Sourav Ganguly. “Ganguly has donated 10 lakh rupees to assist flood victims in the state. These funds will be used to provide relief materials to every district,” he informed. Chowdhury also noted that the Tourism Department plans to honor those who assisted in the recent flood rescue operations.

The event saw the participation of various tour operators, volunteers, and professionals from different sectors. The peace procession, flagged off by the Governor and other dignitaries, wove through the city streets, starting from the historic White Mahal.

In a fitting tribute to the theme of ‘Tourism and Peace’, the event reiterated that tourism’s future is intrinsically linked with the peace and stability of the region, highlighting the need for harmony and unity in fostering sustainable development.