himanta-calls-for-change-in-perceptions-about-northeast

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday revealed that his government has been in continuous communication with the embassies of various countries to address the travel advisories that label the Northeast region as "restricted" for foreign visitors.

 

Speaking to reporters during a press conference at the 12th International Tourism Mart (ITM) in Kaziranga, Sarma stressed that the perception surrounding the Northeast as a volatile region needs to change, especially in the wake of travel restrictions imposed by several nations.

 

He mentioned that despite the ethnic violence in Manipur, the other seven states of the Northeast have not been impacted in terms of tourism.

 

Sarma explained, “Assam has not witnessed any violence for the last 4-5 years. But many countries' advisories put the Northeast under a restricted category. We are in constant touch with the embassies because perception is very important. Management of perception is an important issue for bringing foreign tourists.”

 

He further stated that the state government has been actively inviting foreign ambassadors to visit the region in a bid to change their perceptions. He acknowledged the assistance provided by the Centre in this endeavour.

 

Sarma also mentioned that countries like the United States and Japan have raised concerns regarding travel to the Northeast, which is reflected in their advisory policies.

 

“In the last year, Assam received 10 lakh tourists, including 27,700 foreigners,” he said.

 

Sarma added that it would take time to alter the existing narrative and improve foreign tourist inflow.

 

Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who joined Sarma at the event, emphasised the need to counter the "false narrative" about the region created by some sections of the media.

 

“That is another reason to hold the 12th ITM here. I have a strong belief that people coming here will write positive things after having witnessed the beauty, peace, and development work,” Shekhawat stated.

 

He encouraged bloggers to share their positive experiences and help improve the perception of the region.