International Tourism Mart 2024 Showcasing Northeast India’s Beauty

Why in the news?

The 12th International Tourism Mart is being held in Kaziranga, Assam, from November 26–29, promoting Northeast India’s unique cultural, natural heritage, and sustainable tourism globally.

International Tourism Mart 2024 Showcasing Northeast India’s Beauty

About Northeast India as a Tourism Hub:

  • Northeast India, known as the “Land of Seven Sisters and Sikkim,” offers breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and rich traditions, making it a prime destination for adventure and cultural tourism.
  • The International Tourism Mart (ITM) 2024, held from November 26 to 29 in Kaziranga, Assam, aims to unlock the region’s immense tourism potential.
  • It promotes Northeast India as a global destination for travelers and a gateway to Eastern and Southeastern Asia.

Highlights of ITM 2024:

  • ITM 2024 focuses on showcasing Northeast India’s charm through state presentations, cultural evenings, and live demonstrations.
  • Approximately 400 participants, including tour operators, hoteliers, influencers, and officials, will attend.
  • The event emphasizes sustainability through energy-efficient practices, reduced single-use plastics, and shuttle services.
  • Key site visits include Charaideo Moidam (India’s newest UNESCO World Heritage Site), Kaziranga National Park, Hathikuli Tea Estate, and the Orchid and Biodiversity Park.

About International Tourism Mart (ITM):

  • ITM is organized rotationally across Northeastern states to promote tourism.
  • Mizoram hosts ITM for the first time in its history.
  • Previous editions were held in cities like Guwahati, Shillong, Gangtok, and Kohima.
  • ITM unites tourism businesses, entrepreneurs, media, and stakeholders for collaboration.
  • It facilitates networking among buyers, sellers, and agencies to boost regional tourism.

Government Initiatives Boosting Northeast Tourism:

  • Swadesh Darshan 2.0: Promotes sustainable tourism with funding for cultural and eco-tourism projects.
  • PRASHAD Scheme: Enhances infrastructure for religious and heritage tourism.
  • UDAN-RCS Scheme: Improves air connectivity to remote areas, boosting accessibility.
  • Travel for Life Initiative: Encourages sustainable tourism practices.
  • Assistance for fairs, festivals, and tourism-related events further highlights the region’s cultural richness.
  • These efforts position the Northeast as a sustainable, globally recognized tourism destination while empowering local communities.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times