The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, in collaboration with the UT Administration of Ladakh, Department of Tourism, Defence, ITBP, tourism stakeholders, and local administration, conducted a hands-on workshop on June 9 at the Vibrant Villages of Durbuk and Tangtse in Leh district.

Organized under the Vibrant Villages Programme (VVP), the workshop aimed to create livelihood opportunities through the promotion of tourism, preservation of cultural heritage, skill development, entrepreneurship, and awareness campaigns in border villages.

The workshop focused on three major components:
1.    Homestay and Bed & Breakfast Registration: Detailed guidance was provided to local stakeholders on how to register and apply for approval under the Ministry of Tourism's “Incredible India Bed & Breakfast/Homestay Establishments” scheme.
2.    Tourist Facilitator Training: Awareness was raised about the “Incredible India Tourist Facilitators Certification Programme (IITFC)” and “Incredible India Tourist Guide (IITG)”—digital initiatives that allow individuals to learn about tourism flexibly and become certified facilitators, opening alternative income avenues.
3.    YUVA Tourism Club Formation: Information was shared on forming YUVA Tourism Clubs, aimed at engaging youth in promoting responsible and sustainable tourism while fostering a sense of ownership of India’s cultural and natural heritage.

The workshop sought to promote local culture, build awareness, and connect residents with various schemes and programs of the Ministry of Tourism.
The workshop was graced by the dignitaries, Tashi Namgyal, Yakzee, Executive Councillor; Konchok Stanzin, Councillor, Chushul; Akun Sabharwal, IPS, IG, NW Frontier, ITBP, Leh; Brigadier M.R Jagadish, Station Commander, Tangste; Tsering Namgyal, Chairman, IATO Ladakh Chapter; Rigzin Wangmo Lachic, President, All Ladakh Hotel and Guest House Association, Leh; Nawang Namgyal, Nambardar, Durbuk; Tsewang Dorjey, President All Ladakh Tour Operator Association (ALTOA); Padma, Assistant Director Tourism, Leh, UT of Ladakh and Mohd. Hamza, Adventure Tour Operator Association.

The event witnessed the participation of over 150 locals from Durbuk, Tangtse, Man, Tharuk, Chushul, and Merak villages. Participants included approximately 40 homestay/B&B owners, 50 youths enrolled for IITFC/IITG, 40 handicraft artisans showcasing local products and woollens, 23 students from Government Middle School Durbuk, 14 students from Higher Secondary School Tharuk, tourism stakeholders, and media representatives from Leh.

Strategically located between key tourist destinations like Pangong and Nubra and near the emerging destination Galwan, Durbuk and Tangtse hold significant tourism potential. To highlight this, a Familiarization (FAM) Tour was organized for tourism stakeholders and media representatives.

A digital brochure on Durbuk and Tangtse was unveiled during the workshop. Members of the YUVA Tourism Club also performed cultural presentations, adding vibrancy to the event. Mementos were distributed to guests and participants.

The dignitaries appreciated the initiative and shared their support and commitment toward ensuring the success of these tourism-driven development efforts in Ladakh’s border villages.