Aizawl: Mizoram has recorded a significant increase in tourist arrivals following the extension of railway services to Sairang, with around six lakh visitors travelling to the state until September this year, Chief Minister Lalduhoma said on Wednesday.
Speaking on the second day of the Mizoram Tourism Conclave, Lalduhoma said the growing influx of tourists had opened up substantial investment opportunities in the hospitality industry, with existing accommodation facilities struggling to keep pace with rising demand.
The chief minister attributed the surge in visitors to improved rail connectivity, which has made the state more accessible. He expressed confidence that tourist numbers would continue to increase in the coming months.
To strengthen tourism infrastructure, the state government, in partnership with the Centre, is implementing projects worth Rs 681.16 crore at various locations across Mizoram, Lalduhoma said. He acknowledged the support extended by the Union Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) and NITI Aayog.
He added that projects worth another Rs 11.10 crore were in the pipeline under the state government’s flagship Bana Kaih scheme.
Highlighting the government’s emphasis on community-based and rural tourism, Lalduhoma said work on 199 new homestays had recently been launched with support from Bana Kaih, corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and PM-JUGA.
The chief minister identified culture, adventure and nature as the three key pillars of Mizoram’s tourism potential. He said the state’s cultural traditions, peaceful communities and cleanliness could attract visitors interested in local heritage, while activities such as paragliding competitions, half-marathons and cycling events could strengthen its appeal as an adventure tourism destination.
Lalduhoma also urged investors to explore opportunities in the sector, particularly those linked to the state’s hills, valleys, rivers and wildlife sanctuaries.
Tourism Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar addressed the conclave, outlining the progress made in tourism development and the sector’s investment potential.
Commissioner and Secretary Vanlaldina Fanai delivered a presentation setting the context for the discussions, while Deputy Director of Tourism Dr Lalrinchhani spoke about investment opportunities. Tourism entrepreneurs also shared their experiences during the event.
The conclave, themed “Investing in Mizoram CAN (Culture, Adventure and Nature) for Sustainable Development”, continued with a business-to-business (B2B) session at Aijal Club in the afternoon.