Aizawl: Mizoram is turning to digital platforms and artificial intelligence to showcase its culture, hospitality, landscapes and tourist destinations, tourism minister Lalnghinglova Hmar said on Monday.Addressing the state-level World Tourism Day 2026 celebration at Zo Hall, Chaltlang Tourist Lodge Annex, Hmar said people had an important role in promoting Mizoram as a tourist destination in an increasingly digital world.Hmar called for greater promotion of Mizoram’s cultural heritage, hospitality and tourist destinations through photographs, videos and social media. He urged people to visit destinations within the state and share their experiences online to attract visitors from outside.With several festivals scheduled in the coming months, including the Anthurium Festival from Oct 1 to 3, events at Reiek and Ailawng, Travel Fest, Hnahsin Kut in Champhai, Leitlangpui Festival and the Winter Festival, Hmar urged people to participate in as many events as possible.He said tourism could grow only with community participation. Homestays, hotels and other accommodation providers should maintain clean, hygienic premises and comply with regulations, he said.Hmar also stressed the need to make Mizoram a safe and peaceful destination for family travel while welcoming visitors with its distinctive culture and traditions.“Mizoram can become a major tourist destination only through collective effort,” the minister said.The tourism department also announced the Mizoram Tourism Excellence Awards 2026. Sialsuk village was named Most Friendly Tourist Destination, while 14 Beans won Best Restaurant/Cafe. Moses Laltlanhlua was named Best Two-wheeler Taxi Operator, and Lalrinmawia was named Best Taxi Operator.Mizoraminsta won Best Tourism Promoter, and C. Zakhuma Higher Secondary School was named Best Yuva Tourism Club. Rest Inn won Best Guesthouse/Inn/Hotel/Lodge, Royale Lalawi Hotel Best Hotel, Connerstone Homestay Best Homestay and Xplora Tours & Travels, owned by Dinsanga Benjamin, Best Tour Operator. Lalchhantluanga won Best Tour Guide.The Tourism Ideathon 2026 and Yuva Tourism Club Competition results were also announced. J Buana College Yuva Tourism Club of Lunglei won first prize, followed by Govt Serchhip College Yuva Tourism Club and Govt KM Higher Secondary School Yuva Tourism Club, Aizawl.Women’s Polytechnic, Aizawl, won Best Destination Video.The programme included an address by tourism commissioner and secretary Lalrozama. Tourist officer C Ramsangzuali chaired the event, while tourism additional secretary Zarzokimi delivered the welcome address.
