Tourism is already recognised as an industry and hospitality has been offered industry status in Arunachal Pradesh
What are the key elements of Arunachal Pradesh’s tourism policy?
Pasang Dorjee Sona
Recently, we discussed land policy in the cabinet and are coming up with a new land policy that includes long-term leases. This will be part of a new industrial policy which also covers tourism and investment. The new industrial policy is expected to be published soon as part of the annual plan. The lease duration proposed is up to 100 years, initially granted for 30 years and extendable incrementally. This offers investors considerable security and stability.
Will the tourism and hospitality receive industry status under this?
Yes, tourism is already recognised as an industry and hospitality has been offered industry status. This enables operators to avail themselves of all the benefits that come with industrial classification, such as subsidies, incentives and other policy support available under the tourism and industrial policies. This alignment helps promote growth and investment in tourism-related infrastructure.
How are you promoting the destination overseas?
The number of international visitors has been low, mainly due to additional permits like the Protected Area Permit (PAP) and Restricted Area Permit (RAP) required to enter Arunachal Pradesh. Previously, they were controlled by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Now, RAP remains with the Ministry of Home Affairs, but the government of Arunachal Pradesh has taken over issuing PAP through the tourism department, streamlining the process. Visitors with a valid visa can now simply apply for PAP through any registered tour operator, making entry easier and helping boost international arrivals.
Do you have plans for international promotional campaigns?
Yes, to attract international visitors, we are travelling to different countries to promote Arunachal Pradesh and to learn from their tourism models. For instance, this time we plan to visit Costa Rica, which is renowned for its biodiversity. We want to understand how they manage biodiversity while promoting tourism and then showcase Arunachal on that platform to attract ecotourists and biodiversity enthusiasts.
How are you promoting homestays and community-based tourism?
We encourage homestays led by the local community rather than outside investors. We provide incentives including direct cash benefits and backend subsidies to help sustain and grow these ventures. Homestays running successfully for at least three years can register and based on visitor numbers and positive tourist feedback, we help expand their capacities. Subsidies start at INR 500,000 per homestay, with some schemes offering up to INR 5 million, encouraging more locals to participate in tourism.
Which are the new spots that you want to promote overseas?
Tawang remains the most popular destination. Alongside it, we are promoting Mechuka and Aneni, both of which have recently won national awards, Mechuka as the best mountain destination and Aneni as the best offbeat destination. These untapped locations are the focus for 2025, where we are concentrating resources to develop and market these iconic sites effectively.
Where do most tourists come from?
Domestic tourists primarily come from Maharashtra, Gujarat, West Bengal and neighbouring states like Assam. We have over 1 million domestic tourists currently, with the goal to increase this number further, though we have not set a fixed target. Detailed demographic data, including exact numbers from states like Maharashtra and West Bengal, will be shared with relevant officials.
How are you balancing ecological conservation with increasing tourism?
Balancing ecology and tourism is our biggest challenge. We focus on sensitising local communities, encouraging grassroots conservation efforts while promoting sustainable tourism. Awareness is raised to protect our delicate ecology as tourism grows. Homestays are preferred over hotels because they promote immersive, eco-friendly experiences. Tourists visiting Arunachal tend to be responsible and even help by cleaning up litter, which is very encouraging.
Are you seeing new hotels and infrastructure development?
Yes, Taj Hotels already operates one property and is developing another in the state. Regarding connectivity, we are developing Advanced Landing Grounds (ALGs) or air strips as part of the central government’s Udaan scheme. Two or three ALGs are operational, including Mechuka where the civil terminal is complete and awaiting final clearance from aviation regulator.We are also planning civil terminals at other locations like Tutting and extending runways to accommodate bigger aircraft.