12th International Tourism Mart Inaugurated in Kaziranga: Showcasing Northeast’s Cultural and Natural Riches

Kaziranga: The 12th edition of the International Tourism Mart (ITM) was inaugurated today in the iconic Kaziranga National Park by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in the esteemed presence of Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu.

The event marks a significant step in promoting the Northeast’s diverse culture, heritage, and natural beauty to a global audience. Shekhawat, in his inaugural address, highlighted the region’s rich cultural tapestry, biodiversity, and vibrant crafts and cuisine, underscoring the unique opportunity ITM presents to showcase Northeast India’s treasures to the world.

Hosting the ITM in Kaziranga holds special significance as 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of Kaziranga’s designation as a national park. Shekhawat commended the park’s remarkable expansion from 400 sq. km to 1,300 sq. km over the last decade, emphasizing its pivotal role in Northeast tourism.

“This Mart celebrates not just the natural wealth of the region but also serves as a gateway to explore its immense tourism potential. With the Northeast at the forefront, India’s tourism sector is poised for significant growth,” he remarked.

Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma described ITM as a transformative platform for cultural exchange, ecological preservation, and economic development. “This event offers international students and influencers an immersive experience of the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness,” he said.

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu echoed these sentiments, calling ITM a testament to the growing prominence of the Northeast on the global tourism map.

Held from November 26 to 29, ITM 2024 features a rich program aimed at promoting sustainable tourism and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. Highlights include:

• Panel Discussions: Topics on employment, youth entrepreneurship, innovation, and wildlife conservation.
• Cultural Experiences: Live music, curated food demonstrations, and vibrant cultural evenings.
• Technical Visits: Guided tours to Kaziranga National Park, Charaideo Moidams, Rang Ghar, Hathikuli Tea Estate, and the Orchid and Biodiversity Park.
• Launch of “Guwahati and Around”: A coffee table book by Assam Tourism Development Corporation, showcasing the heritage and scenic beauty of the region.

The event also commemorates the recent recognition of the Moidams of Charaideo as India’s 43rd UNESCO World Heritage Site, adding another feather to Northeast India’s cultural cap.

This year’s ITM witnessed unprecedented participation, with delegates from 30 countries, including 15 international influencers, 24 international tour operators, and 20 international students. Domestically, the event hosted 46 buyers, seven influencers, and 101 sellers.

Aligning with the Travel for Life initiative by the Ministry of Tourism, ITM 2024 emphasizes sustainability, employing energy-efficient practices and minimizing environmental impact.

Senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism, state governments, tourism industry associations, and local administration gathered to explore opportunities for collaboration and innovation in tourism. The Mart aims to propel the Northeast to new heights, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of India’s tourism landscape.

As Shekhawat aptly concluded, “This Mart is not just an event; it is a movement to position the Northeast as a global tourism hub, celebrating its unparalleled heritage and natural beauty.”