Itanagar, Oct 19: Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu has emphasised the tourism potential of remote border villages Mago and Chuna in Tawang district, saying the two-day Shangri-La Calling Festival, would help create livelihood opportunities for local communities and connect the villages with the outside world.
Khandu who inaugurated the festival on Saturday said the festival was more than a celebration of the region’s cultural heritage and natural beauty, describing it as an initiative to open up Mago and Chuna to tourism and bring the border villages closer to the outside world.
He said promoting the unexplored destinations would create fresh avenues for livelihood, economic growth, and prosperity for local residents.
The festival seeks to showcase the scenic beauty and cultural richness of the border region while encouraging tourism as a means of supporting local communities and expanding economic opportunities.
On the occasion, Khandu also flagged off the Bajrang Peak Expedition to Point 5583, at an elevation of 5,583 metres, from Chuna under Operation Arunoday. He appreciated the 7th Battalion of the Garhwal Rifles for organising the expedition, which includes personnel from the National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS) and local youth.
The Chief Minister expressed the hope that the expedition members would reach the summit and return safely, bringing pride to Arunachal Pradesh.
The festival and the expedition highlight the potential of border tourism and adventure activities to showcase the natural landscapes while creating opportunities for local participation and livelihood generation in the State.