Imphal: Andro village in Manipur has been honoured as one of the Best Tourism Villages in the Heritage category during the 2024 Best Tourism Villages Competition, organized by the Ministry of Tourism.
The award was presented at a ceremony held at the Plenary Hall, Vigyan Bhawan, in New Delhi on World Tourism Day on Friday.
The Chief Guest of the event, Jagdeep Dhankar, Vice President of India, congratulated the winners and highlighted the significance of sustainable tourism development. The ceremony was attended by officials from Manipur Tourism and representatives from Andro village, including Thounaojam Shyamkumar Singh, Chairman of TCML/MLA for Andro Constituency, and W Ibohal Singh, Director (Tourism) of Manipur.
Andro village’s rich cultural heritage and traditional practices were pivotal in its recognition as the Best Tourism Village. A key highlight is the Panam Ningthou Temple, a significant heritage site dedicated to a local deity that embodies the cultural and historical essence of the region.
The villagers have actively engaged the local community in promoting their heritage while involving them in tourism activities. Community-based organisations and committees have been established to focus on conservation and promotion efforts, working collaboratively with local authorities, historians, and stakeholders to develop beneficial initiatives for the entire community.
The village’s unique cultural elements, such as the centuries-old fire worship and the revered Panam Ningthou Temple, attract visitors from around the globe. This influx contributes to the local economy by creating job opportunities, fostering entrepreneurship, and promoting the sale of traditional products.
Beyond economic benefits, tourism also encourages social development by facilitating cultural exchange and understanding.
Interactions between the local community and tourists enhance the preservation of the village’s cultural heritage. To ensure the sustainability of tourism in Andro, villagers prioritize eco-friendly practices, including waste management, water conservation, and responsible use of natural resources.
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