The 12th Edition of the International Tourism Mart (ITM) was inaugurated on November 26, 2024, in Kaziranga, Assam, by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in the presence of Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Shri Pema Khandu. This event showcases the Northeast’s tourism potential, cultural richness, and natural beauty.
Union Minister Shri Shekhawat highlighted the Northeast’s cultural diversity, rich cuisine, crafts, and biodiversity, emphasizing its growing prominence on the national and international stage. He noted the significance of hosting ITM in Kaziranga, aligning with the 50th anniversary of Kaziranga National Park’s declaration as a national park. He praised the park’s remarkable growth, from 400 sq. km to 1,300 sq. km over the last decade. The Minister also underscored the Northeast’s pivotal role in India’s tourism growth, aligning with sustainable development principles through the Travel for Life initiative.
Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, Chief Minister of Assam, emphasized the transformative potential of tourism for cultural exchange, ecological preservation, and economic development. He noted the immersive opportunities for international students and influencers to explore the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness. The Chief Minister also celebrated Assam’s Moidams of Charaideo, which were recently declared India’s 43rd UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting the cultural significance of the Ahom dynasty.
The ITM, taking place from November 26 to 29, 2024, is set against the backdrop of Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its one-horned rhinoceros. The event includes a variety of activities, such as:
- Presentations by state governments.
- B2B and B2G meetings to foster collaborations.
- Panel discussions on employment, youth entrepreneurship, women empowerment, adventure tourism, wildlife conservation, and more.
- Cultural evenings, curated food demonstrations, and live music.
- Visits to iconic locations like Charaideo Moidams, Rangghar, Hathikuli Tea Estate, and the Orchid and Biodiversity Park.
- Post-event FAM tours to various destinations in the Northeast.
A Coffee Table Book titled “Guwahati and Around”, published by Assam Tourism Development Corporation, was launched during the event, offering a vivid portrayal of the region’s heritage and culture.
ITM 2024 saw participation from 30 countries, with 15 international influencers from 11 nations, 24 international tour operators from 16 countries, and 20 international students from 17 countries. Additionally, 46 domestic buyers, 101 domestic sellers, and 7 domestic influencers attended, creating a dynamic platform for promoting tourism in India’s Asthalakshmi—Northeast.
This annual event organized by the Ministry of Tourism strengthens Northeast India’s position as a global tourism destination, fostering collaboration among stakeholders to unlock the region’s immense tourism potential.