11th Edition of International Tourism Mart

November 21, 2023

A three-day mega event is set to kick off in Shillong, Meghalaya, aiming to showcase the tourism potential of India’s northeast region. Union Minister G Kishan Reddy is scheduled to inaugurate the 11th edition of the International Tourism Mart (ITM).

A ‘Green’ Approach to Tourism

This edition of ITM is distinguished as a “unique event” by adopting low-carbon options aligned with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change’s Mission LiFE. The event will take place from November 21-23 in Shillong.

Infrastructure Boost for Northeast Tourism

The Ministry of Tourism has allocated Rs 44.44 crore for the development of 22 viewpoints in the northeast. These efforts aim to enhance infrastructure, including commercial spaces, logistic parks, and traveler facilities, to promote tourism in the region.

ITM’s Objective and History

The ITM, an annual event organized by the Ministry of Tourism, rotates through Northeastern states. Its purpose is to provide a platform for stakeholders to interact and create awareness about the tourism potential of the Northeast region. Shillong is hosting the event for the second time.

Delegates and Participants

Approximately 100 delegates, including domestic and international participants, are expected to attend the ITM. The event will bring together tourism ministers, senior officials, and representatives from various northeastern states and tourism associations.

Sustainable Practices at ITM

The event emphasizes sustainability with a commitment to not use single-use plastic (SUP). It will follow a digital and paperless route, and a tree plantation drive is planned. Special sessions for business meetings and knowledge-sharing will be held during the event.

Advancements in Northeast Connectivity

The northeast has witnessed a significant increase in air connectivity in recent years, with over 16 airports providing access to tourist destinations. The Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with the Ministry of Civil Aviation, has operationalized 53 tourism routes, including 10 exclusive routes for the Northeast region.

‘Travel for LiFE’ Initiative

To promote sustainable and responsible tourism, the Ministry of Tourism is actively involved in the ‘Travel for LiFE’ program. This initiative aims to position India as a leader in sustainable tourism, contributing to achieving Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

Development Projects in Northeast

Under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme, 16 projects totaling Rs 1,309 crore have been sanctioned for the Northeast states. Additionally, 15 tourist destinations are under development as part of the Swadesh Darshan Scheme 2.0, focusing on sustainability.

PRASHAD Scheme for Pilgrimage Destinations

The Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned eight projects worth Rs 256.45 crore under the PRASHAD scheme for the integrated development of pilgrimage destinations in the northeast states, further enhancing the tourism landscape in the region.

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