ITANAGAR, Oct 18: Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Saturday inaugurated the two-day Shangri-La Calling Festival at Mago-Chuna in Tawang district, aiming to promote tourism in the remote border villages and create new livelihood opportunities for local communities.
Khandu 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.
Wishing the expedition team a safe and successful climb, the Chief Minister expressed hope that the members would reach the summit and return safely, bringing pride to Arunachal Pradesh.
The festival and expedition highlight the potential of border tourism and adventure activities to showcase Arunachal Pradesh’s natural landscapes while creating opportunities for local participation and livelihood generation.