Meghalaya’s Umden & Mawphlang villages win ‘National Best Tourism Village’ award

Shillong, Sept 29: Meghalaya’s exemplary contribution to sustainable tourism took centre stage at the World Tourism Day 2024 celebrations held at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi on Friday as Umden and Mawphlang villages were declared winners in the prestigious ‘National Best Tourism Village Competition’, organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

Umden was awarded in the ‘Craft category’ for its indigenous silk-weaving heritage, while Mawphlang was honoured in the ‘Heritage category’ for its conservation of sacred groves and cultural significance. Representatives from both villages were present to accept their awards, reflecting Meghalaya’s growing leadership in rural and sustainable tourism.

Lauding this remarkable achievement, Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh said, “It is a proud moment for the people of Meghalaya. After Kongthong’s recognition last year, this honour adds another feather to our cap. This achievement has ensured that more people now know about the exquisite Eri silk of Umden and the ancient sacred forests of Mawphlang. These awards are a testament to our efforts in building sustainable tourism, and fostering community development.”

Umden, located in the Ri-Bhoi district, is widely known for its production of Eri silk, also referred to as ‘Ahimsa silk’. The village has successfully integrated its traditional weaving practices into the larger sustainable tourism narrative, attracting visitors who are keen to learn about this ancient craft. The award in the Craft category recognizes the community’s effort in preserving local craftsmanship while promoting tourism as a means of livelihood and cultural exchange.

Mawphlang, in the East Khasi Hills, won the Best Village Award in ‘Heritage’ category. This is a testament of the villagers’ conservation of their sacred groves. These ancient forests hold immense cultural and spiritual value for the Khasi people and are a focal point for ecotourism in the region. The village’s commitment to protecting these sacred spaces while opening them up for sustainable tourism is an inspiring model for heritage conservation and community engagement.

Representatives from both villages who received the awards include Craig Alan Lyngdoh, Chief of Hima Mawphlang; Lamphrang Blah, Myntri Hima Mawphlang; Tambor Lyngdoh, President of Mawphlang Sustainable Tourism Society; Tander Tmung, Weaver at Eri Silk Village, Umden; Bishar Tmung, Headman of Durbar Shnong Diwon, Umden; and Blandina Rympeit, Weaver at Integrated Village Co-operative Society Ltd.

The celebration of World Tourism Day 2024 also saw the Ministry of Tourism showcase several key initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism. Among these were the Paryatan Mitra initiative, industry partnerships with hospitality chains, and the Incredible India Content Hub.

The Vice President of India Jagdeep Dhankhar and other dignitaries, including Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Tourism and Culture, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister of Railways, and Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, Union Minister of Civil Aviation, emphasized the importance of tourism as a tool for peacebuilding and socio-economic development.

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