New Delhi: Andro Village, located in Manipur, has been honored with the prestigious award for one of the Best Tourism Villages in the Heritage category at the 2024 Best Tourism Villages Competition, organized by the Ministry of Tourism. The award ceremony took place at Vigyan Bhawan’s Plenary Hall, New Delhi, on Saturday as part of World Tourism Day 2024 celebrations.
The event was graced by the Vice President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, as the Chief Guest, who congratulated the winners and highlighted the significance of sustainable tourism development. Officials from Manipur Tourism and representatives from Andro Village, including Thounaojam Shyamkumar Singh, Chairman of TCML/MLA from Andro Constituency, and W. Ibohal Singh, Director of Tourism, Manipur, were present to receive the honor.
Andro Village was recognized for its rich cultural heritage and traditional practices, which played a pivotal role in its selection for the Heritage category award. A key attraction is the Panam Ningthou Temple, a vital heritage site reflecting the region’s cultural and historical significance. The temple, dedicated to the local deity Panam Ningthou, holds deep cultural importance for the people of Manipur.
The community of Andro has embraced various initiatives to promote and preserve its heritage while fostering tourism. The villagers have formed community-based organizations and committees focused on conserving and promoting their cultural legacy. These groups work alongside local authorities, historians, and other stakeholders to ensure the development of sustainable tourism that benefits the entire community.
Tourists from across the globe are drawn to the village’s unique cultural practices, including the centuries-old fire worship and the Panam Ningthou Temple. This tourism boost has significantly contributed to the local economy by generating employment, encouraging entrepreneurship, and supporting the sale of traditional products.
Beyond economic benefits, tourism has also fostered cultural exchange and mutual understanding between locals and visitors, enriching Andro’s cultural heritage. The village has prioritized environmental sustainability by implementing eco-friendly practices, such as waste management, water conservation, and responsible use of natural resources. Andro’s selection as one of the Best Tourism Villages in the Heritage category highlights its dedication to sustainable tourism that positively impacts both the local community and its visitors.
