ITANAGAR, Oct 12 � On his maiden visit to Arunachal Pradesh, Union Minister of State (Independent charge) for Culture and Tourism Shripad Yasso Naik today called on State Governor Lt Gen Nirbhay Sharma (Retd) at Raj Bhavan here. They discussed on promotion of the rich cultural assets of the indigenous people of the State and harnessing its tourism potential.
During his conversation with the MoS, the Governor emphasised on the need for more focused and concerted efforts in the promotion and preservation of the rich cultural heritage of the State.
He said that Arunachal Pradesh is not only rich in biodiversity but also rich in ethnic and cultural diversity. It is a mini India and truly a mesmerising cultural mosaic with its 26 major and 106 minor tribes. Each tribe has distinct cultural traditions and practices, he added.
He stressed on setting up of a Regional Cultural Centre at Itanagar for which detailed project report has already been submitted by the State Government.
The Governor further pointed that along with the cultural richness, the State is blessed with huge tourism potential, including adventure sports, religious and cultural tourism, etc. The State is a �dream� destination for art and culture lovers. He suggested for inclusion of at least two pilgrimage circuits of the State in the Ministry of Tourism list from amongst the Bhalukpong-Tawang circuit, Aalo-Mechukka circuit and Tezu-Parasuram Kund circuit, which are important Buddhist cultural centres and pilgrimage places in the State.
Stating that Arunachal Pradesh is truly a mystical land to be explored, admired and enjoyed, the Governor suggested for more cultural and tourism related infrastructure development.
The Union Minister arrived in the State capital today to attend the annual general conference of Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP) here.
