Guwahati: In a bid to highlight the tourism potential of the Northeastern Region among both domestic and foreign audiences, the Ministry of Tourism is set to organise the 12th edition of the International Tourism Mart (ITM) at Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO site and home to the majestic one-horned rhino, from November 26 to 29, 2024.
International Tourism Mart is an annual event that serves as a vital platform, bringing together tourism businesses and entrepreneurs from the eight Northeastern states — Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim — to foster collaboration and interactions among buyers, sellers, media, government agencies and other stakeholders.
Notably, the 12th edition of ITM is set to take place in a region renowned for its diverse topography, rich flora and fauna, vibrant ethnic communities, ancient traditions, festivals and abundant art and craft.
Briefing the media on the 12th edition of ITM in New Delhi on Friday, Tourism director general Mugdha Sinha informed that about 400 participants will be present at the event, which include international and domestic tour operators, hoteliers and homestay owners, tourism service providers, influencers and opinion makers, senior officials from the central and state governments and students.
Sinha further informed that the four-day Mart will feature a variety of activities, including presentations by state governments, B2B meetings, panel discussions, food demonstrations, cultural evenings, live music, a North East Bazaar, and technical visits to significant sites such as Charaideo Maidam (newest and 43rd UNESCO World Heritage Site of India), Kaziranga National Park (which celebrates 50 years as National Park), Hathikuli Tea Estate and the Orchid and Biodiversity Park.
“It will also engage international students who are studying in the North Eastern region and influencers all across the globe providing them with first hand insights into the area’s rich culture,” she said.
Highlighting that the ITM in Kaziranga will exemplify a strong commitment to sustainability, aligning with the Travel for Life initiative of Ministry of Tourism, the tourism official stated that the event would be organised with a focus on minimising environmental impact, employing energy-efficient practices, and the elimination of single-use plastics.
“Transportation during the Mart will be facilitated via dedicated shuttle services, demonstrating the Ministry’s dedication to harmonising tourism with nature and ensuring a lasting, positive legacy,” she said.
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