The Government of Manipur in collaboration with Ecotourism Society of India (ESOI) is organizing India’s first Eco-Tourism Conclave at Imphal, Manipur on 07-08 April, 2014.The Conclave will be coinciding with the International Thailand-Bhutan Car Rally arriving in Manipur on 7th April, 2014.
Dr. Rajesh Kumar, Principal Secretary (Tourism), Government of Manipur opined that the ‘Conclave’ would bring into national focus, the rich natural assets, heritage and culture of Manipur, apart from the inherent adventure and sporting spirit of the people, such as the Polo Tourism which was born in Manipur. The State is also working on developing tourism activities in and around Loktak Lake, which is the largest fresh water lake in the North East, located 45 km South-West of Imphal. This would help in conservation and protection of endangered species like the Brow Antlered Deer, popularly known as the Sangai. Manipur is also proud to have the only Official Indian National Army (INA) War Museum at Moirang dedicated to the Second World War.
Shri Rakesh Mathur, Honorary Secretary, ESOI, observed that the ‘Conclave’ will be the first time in which apart from the role of culture, media, homestay and community, ecotourism practices, code of ethics and guidelines under the Safe & Honourable Tourism, etc., diverse topics on tourism would be highlighted and discussed in the 2-day ‘Conclave’ covering the following:
- Adventure Tourism
- Heritage Tourism
- MICE Tourism
- Golf Tourism
- Polo Tourism
- Medical Tourism
- Water based Tourism & Sports
- Rural Tourism
- Culture Tourism
The ‘Conclave’ would also showcase for the benefit of all Stakeholders, some of the best Ecotourism related practices in India and the World. The ‘Conclave’ will also cover topics like Destination Development and Marketing, Role of Media in Tourism. His Excellency The Governor of Manipur, Shri V. K. Duggal will be the Chief Guest. Shri M. P. Bezbaruah, Hon’ble Member, North Eastern Council, Shillong shall preside over the function, and Shri Shilabhadra Banerjee, (IAS Retd.), Former Secretary (Tourism), Government of India is Guest of Honour. Leaders from the ‘Tourism Sector’ are also expected to join the panel of speakers and share their expertise and experiences.
For further information and participation, one may contact ESOI office at admin@ecotourismsocietyofindia.org or visit www.ecotourismsocietyofindia.org.