On March 11, 2025, a notable international webinar titled “Responsible Approach to Cultural Tourism” will convene from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM IST, spotlighting Nagaland’s commitment to cultural heritage preservation. Organised by Contact Base, a Kolkata-based group championing sustainable, culture-focused development, it aims to facilitate global cooperation in cultural tourism, bolstered by a partnership with UN Tourism.
In a proactive step for this initiative, Contact Base previously held a workshop in Mokokchung, where it meticulously documented the vibrant lifestyles of various communities in Nagaland, including the Ao, Angami, Kuki, Konyak, and Chakhesang. By capturing elements such as cuisine, arts, and crafts from districts like Mon and Kohima, the organisation is dedicated to showcasing the rich tapestry of Nagaland’s living heritage.
In conjunction with the ongoing project, Contact Base plans to launch a website and mobile application by the end of March, providing insights into cultural tours, homestays, and local experiences, further supported by the German Consulate General in Kolkata. The forthcoming webinar promises insightful discussions, featuring Igor Stefanovic of UN Tourism, who will focus on “Cultural Tourism and Indigenous Leadership,” among other expert speakers.
Nagaland, acclaimed for its storied traditions, lively festivals, exquisite crafts, and stunning architecture, is making significant strides to enhance its appeal as a cultural tourism haven. The local government and diverse stakeholders are actively promoting experiences that highlight sustainability and support community welfare. By embracing a responsible tourism model, Nagaland ensures that its intricate traditions are preserved authentically while inviting cultural explorers.
As tourism gears towards regenerative models following the pandemic, this new focus prioritises community well-being, equitable partnerships, and ethical cultural engagements. This shift not only cultivates economic returns but significantly improves the lives of local residents, offering tourists genuine and gratifying cultural experiences.
The webinar intends to delve into cultural tourism’s role in sustainable development and encourage community-led initiatives, gathering experts from UN Tourism and the World Indigenous Tourism Alliance (WINTA) alongside key stakeholders from Nagaland, fostering rich dialogues on this vital topic.
An international webinar on responsible cultural tourism will take place on March 11, 2025, organised by Contact Base in collaboration with UN Tourism. The event highlights Nagaland’s cultural heritage documentation and expresses commitment to community-driven tourism. It promotes equitable sustainability in tourism while showcasing expert speakers who will discuss cultural integration in tourism experiences. Nagaland stands firmly as a model of responsible tourism that benefits local communities and preserves authentic traditions.
The upcoming webinar on March 11, 2025, illustrates Nagaland’s pioneering stance in responsible cultural tourism, intertwining community welfare with heritage preservation. Through dedicated efforts by Contact Base, a platform to share the region’s rich cultural tapestry is on the horizon, as it fosters global collaborations to bring sustainable tourism to life. By supporting local communities, Nagaland showcases how tourism can create pathways for solving contemporary challenges while refreshing cultural understandings between visitors and hosts.
Original Source: www.travelandtourworld.com
