The 12th Edition of the International Tourism Mart (ITM) was inaugurated today in Kaziranga, Assam, by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in the presence of Chief Minister of Assam, Dr. Himanta Biswa Sharma, and Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Pema Khandu. The event, held from November 26 to 29, 2024, aims to emphasize the tourism potential of Northeast India, with a focus on the region’s rich culture, biodiversity, and vibrant communities.
In his inaugural address, Minister Shekhawat stressed the Northeast’s legacy and its diverse cultural and natural offerings, including its cuisine, crafts, and unique biodiversity. He described the event as a platform for international audiences to experience the region's extraordinary heritage, noting that hosting ITM in Kaziranga marks an important moment for the region’s tourism industry.
"Hosting ITM in Kaziranga echoes the growing prominence of Northeast India on the national and international stage," said Shekhawat. "Over the past decade, the region has witnessed rapid growth, and this event provides an opportunity to explore its vast tourism potential."
The occasion also coincides with the 50th anniversary of Kaziranga being declared a national park. Shekhawat highlighted the park’s significant expansion from 400 sq. km to 1,300 sq. km in the past decade and its role in promoting wildlife protection. Kaziranga National Park, home to the iconic one-horned rhinoceros and a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides the perfect setting for ITM 2024.
Chief Minister of Assam, Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of the event in promoting Northeast India’s tourism as a transformative force for cultural exchange, ecological conservation, and economic growth. Sarma noted that the ITM provides a special opportunity for international students and global influencers to engage with the region’s natural beauty and cultural legacy.
The ITM 2024 features a mixture of activities, including B2B meetings, exhibits by state governments, and panel discussions on topics such as youth entrepreneurship, digitalization, women empowerment, and sustainable tourism. The occasion also includes curated food demonstrations, cultural nights, and live music performances. Attendees will have the chance to visit landmarks such as the Charaideo Moidams, Rangghar, Kaziranga National Park, Hathikuli Tea Estate, and the Orchid and Biodiversity Park.
A major highlight of the occasion was the launch of a Coffee Table Book on Assam, titled “Guwahati and Around,” issued by the Assam Tourism Development Corporation. The book offers a visual and literary quest of Guwahati’s rich cultural legacy and scenic surroundings.
The ITM 2024 also celebrates important milestones in the region's tourism and cultural history, including the recent honor of the Moidams of Charaideo as the 43rd UNESCO World Heritage Site from India. This honor emphasizes the immense tourism and cultural significance of Assam and Northeast India.
The occasion sees important participation from international and domestic stakeholders. A total of 30 countries are represented, including 15 international influencers from 11 countries and 24 international tour operators from 16 countries. Further, 46 domestic buyers and 101 domestic vendors are participating, with representatives from various tourism and hospitality sectors.
The International Tourism Mart (ITM) serves as an essential platform for promoting Northeast India as an exclusive tourism destination, bringing together industry professionals, government agencies, and other stakeholders. This year’s event is especially important as it reflects the region's pledge to sustainable tourism practices and innovation, in line with the Ministry of Tourism’s Travel for Life initiative.
By bringing together key players from the international tourism industry, ITM 2024 plays a key role in promoting the Northeast as a fundamental driver of India’s tourism sector, ensuring that the region’s unique culture, natural beauty, and legacy reach new audiences worldwide. (PR)