Popularly called the enchanted whistling village of Meghalaya, Kongthong has been given a prestigious award at the National Tourism Awards 2023. It has been named for the ‘Best Tourism Village (Bronze)’ award. The Tourism Ministry gave out these awards on the occasion of World Tourism Day in New Delhi.
With the aim of promoting tourism destinations across the country, the Tourism Department presents these awards every years. It is also an attempt to acknowledge the work done in the field of tourism. The department organized this year’s event at the Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan of New Delhi.
Several dignitaries attended this event to commemorate World Tourism Day 2023. These included Minister of State of Tourism and Defence Ajay Bhatt and Secretary to Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Leena Nandan. Additional Secretary to the Ministry of Tourism Rakesh Kumar Verma also attended the gathering. Representatives of all state tourism departments and stakeholders of the sector were also present.
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma expressed his happiness for this achievement of his state. He said that the naming of Kongthong for the award makes him immensely proud. He mentioned that this recognition is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. And added that the melodious whistles echo the harmony of the diverse traditions of the people.
He also mentioned that the tourism sector is the second largest employment generator of the state. He said, “Our goal is to transform Meghalaya into India’s most preferred tourist destination.” Taking steps towards that goal, the government has undertaken schemes for the promotion of homestays. The state has also created a scheme for luxury tourist vehicles for tourist vehicles. He also mentioned that the state is looking to promote caravan tourism in the state. And all while creating new tourism related infrastructures in the state.
