Aizawl, April 11: Mizoram Tourism Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar on Friday held a meeting with leaders of the Central Young Mizo Association (CYMA) to discuss strategies for managing the increasing number of tourists visiting the state.

During the meeting, Hmar described the rise in tourist arrivals as beneficial for Mizoram’s economy and visibility but cautioned that unregulated tourism could affect local culture and traditions. He attributed the surge to improved connectivity, particularly the expansion of railway access to Sairang since September last year. Officials noted that over 8 lakh tourists visited the state last year, with higher numbers expected in 2026.

The minister stated that tourism has the potential to become a major industry in Mizoram if developed in a structured manner. He emphasized the need to balance hospitality with the preservation of local customs. The government has already initiated consultations with the Council of Churches in Mizoram (CCM) and the Presbyterian Church, and plans to engage with additional civil society organisations.

CYMA President R. Lalngheta raised concerns regarding instances of tourist behaviour that may conflict with local norms. He proposed the introduction of clear guidelines outlining acceptable conduct for visitors, along with awareness campaigns targeting both tourists and residents.

Key suggestions discussed in the meeting included joint awareness initiatives by the government and CYMA, distribution of tourist information materials, training programmes for tour guides, regulation of homestays, and stricter enforcement of Inner Line Permit (ILP) and Protected Area Permit (PAP) systems. The role of YMA branches as local contact points for tourists was also highlighted.

Both the government and CYMA agreed to strengthen coordination efforts. CYMA also indicated the possibility of formalising the partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).