The breathtaking topographies, vibrant cultural
legacy, and rich traditions of Northeast India are set to take center stage as
the 12th International Tourism Mart (ITM) 2024 begins today in Kaziranga,
Assam. ITM will be held from 26th to 29th November. Organized by the Ministry
of Tourism, this annual occasion boosts the region's huge tourism potential,
emphasizing its natural and cultural treasures to domestic and global
audiences.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has voiced his promise
to develop Northeast India as an international tourism hub. Known as the
"Land of the Seven Sisters and Sikkim," this region is a haven of
natural beauty, adventure, and cultural immersion. ITM 2024 will build on the
legacy of past editions, focusing on sustainability and positioning Northeast
India as a gateway to Eastern and Southeastern Asia.
Since its beginning in 2013 in Guwahati, ITM has
become an exclusive forum to bring Northeast India into the limelight. Each
year, the occasion alternates among the Northeastern states, encouraging
cooperation between local stakeholders and national and international markets.
The 2023 edition, held in Shillong, Meghalaya,
celebrated the region’s diverse biodiversity, tourism products, and intangible
legacy, such as local traditions, arts, dances, and crafts. This year’s event
vows to elevate Northeast India’s tourism to new heights.
Running from November 26 to 29, ITM 2024 will
feature a range of activities, including state exhibitions,
business-to-business (B2B) sessions, panel debates, cultural nights, live
music, food demonstrations, and a Northeast Bazaar. Over 400 players, including
tour operators, hoteliers, influencers, and government administrators, will
congregate to explore the region's offerings. Attendees will also visit iconic
sites, such as Charaideo Moidam: India’s newest UNESCO World Heritage Site,
Kaziranga National Park: Marking 50 years as a National Park, Hathikuli Tea
Estate, and the Orchid and Biodiversity Park.
Aligned with the Ministry of Tourism's "Travel
for LiFE" initiative, ITM 2024 highlights sustainability. Efforts include
eradicating single-use plastics, energy-efficient practices, and shuttle
services to minimize environmental impact.
The Ministry of Tourism is strengthening Northeast
tourism through several measures such as :
- Swadesh
Darshan 2.0: Encourages sustainable and responsible tourism with improved
cultural, adventure, and eco-tourism experiences.
- PRASHAD
Scheme: Develops pilgrimage and heritage tourism
infrastructure.
- UDAN-RCS
Scheme: Enhances air connectivity with new airports and helicopter
services.
- Infrastructure
Assistance: Substantial funds have been allotted to develop
tourism-related infrastructure, including ₹44.44 crore for 22 viewpoints.
Also, financial aid is provided for fairs and
festivals to display the rich culture of Northeast states.
The "Travel for LiFE" initiative,
established in September 2023, encourages sustainable tourism practices to
protect natural and cultural resources. By integrating modern tourism with
cultural preservation, these steps empower local communities and build an
internationally appealing, eco-friendly tourism destination.
With ITM 2024 and ongoing initiatives, Northeast
India is stepping into the global limelight as a must-visit destination. By
encouraging cooperation, enhancing infrastructure, and highlighting
sustainability, the region is poised to deliver amazing experiences while
maintaining its unique heritage for years to come. (PR)