Arunachal Pradesh Cultural Affairs Minister Dasanglu Pul has emphasized that women-led rural tourism could serve as a powerful engine for cultural exchange, sustainable development, and regional cooperation across the Himalayan Buddhist belt. Speaking at a regional workshop titled “Development of the Buddhist Circuit in Northeast India” held in Tawang, the Minister lauded the initiative’s focus on connecting the region’s spiritual centers with neighboring nations like Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka.
The workshop brought together a diverse group of delegates from across South Asia and neighboring Indian states, including Assam and Sikkim. Discussions focused on strengthening regional collaboration and promoting sustainable tourism models rooted in shared Buddhist heritage. Minister Pul highlighted Arunachal Pradesh’s vast potential as a spiritual destination, specifically pointing to the significance of Tawang, Mechukha, and the Golden Pagoda in Namsai as vital anchors for international tourism.
A central theme of the Minister’s address was the traditional role of women in rural and tribal communities as the primary custodians of oral traditions, handicrafts, indigenous cuisines, and cultural rituals. She argued that formally involving women in tourism initiatives would not only safeguard this intangible heritage but also create vital livelihood opportunities, leading to broader community empowerment.
To support this vision, the Minister reiterated the state government’s commitment to providing working women with access to skill development, micro-financing, and digital platforms to promote local experiences. Officials at the workshop described the event as a landmark step toward enhancing regional connectivity and destination branding. By fostering deeper people-to-people ties and inclusive development models, the initiative aims to position Northeast India as a premier global destination for spiritual and cultural tourism.
