Shillong, Meghalaya: The 11th International Tourism Mart unfolded in Shillong, Meghalaya, orchestrating a vibrant celebration of the North East’s cultural tapestry and burgeoning tourism prospects. Hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, this event served as a pivotal platform to highlight the region’s rich heritage and tourism potential on a global stage.
The inaugural session, held at the picturesque Lariti Performing Centre, unfolded with a sequence of enlightening sessions and cultural showcases. The event’s itinerary showcased a diverse array of activities:
Inaugural Session: The ceremony commenced with the lighting of the lamp, signifying the commencement of the evening’s proceedings. Smt. V Vidyavathi, Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, welcomed attendees, setting the tone for the insightful sessions that followed.
Esteemed dignitaries including Shri Ajay Bhatt, Hon’ble Minister of State for Tourism and Defence, Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, Hon’ble Minister of State for Tourism, Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Pema Khandu, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, and Shri G Kishan Reddy, Hon’ble Union Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Development of North Eastern Region, graced the event with their enlightening addresses. Each speech offered invaluable perspectives on the region’s tourism potential and the need for sustainable growth.
The virtual inauguration of diverse tourism projects showcased a commitment to bolstering tourism infrastructure and amenities in the North East, underlining the government’s dedication to the region’s holistic development.
Focus on Sustainability: A key highlight was the focus on sustainable and responsible tourism. With an aim to make the ITM a carbon-neutral event, the discussions emphasized environmental conservation while harnessing the region’s tourism potential. Shri Conrad K Sangma, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Meghalaya, echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of preserving the region’s ecological balance while fostering tourism growth.
The cultural segment dazzled attendees with ‘Rhythms of Meghalaya,’ a musical ensemble portraying the lifestyle and attire of Khasi, Jiantia, and Garo tribes, followed by a mesmerizing performance by the renowned Shillong Chamber Choir.
Collaborations and Connections: The ITM acted as a bustling hub for stakeholders, serving as a melting pot for innovative ideas and collaborations. It provided a platform for fostering connections between national and international buyers, signaling an era of expansive collaborations set to invigorate the North East’s tourism industry.
Prospects and Future Outlook: The event’s comprehensive sessions, cultural showcases, and emphasis on sustainability showcased the North East’s multifaceted potential. It underscored the region’s cultural richness, highlighting its unique offerings and establishing it as a compelling destination on the global tourism map.
In essence, the 11th International Tourism Mart in Shillong served as a testimony to the North East’s multifaceted cultural heritage and untapped tourism treasures. It portrayed a promising outlook for the region’s tourism industry, emphasizing sustainable growth, cultural vibrancy, and collaborative endeavors.
Championing Sustainable and Responsible Tourism: Integral to the event’s narrative was the commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism practices. Speakers and discussions echoed a collective aspiration to preserve the ecological integrity of the North East while harnessing its tourism potential. Emphasizing responsible tourism aligns with a global trend, acknowledging the importance of conserving the environment while promoting tourism.
The event highlighted various initiatives and projects aimed at environmental conservation and community engagement. The emphasis on local community involvement in tourism activities highlighted a commitment to fostering economic growth while ensuring socio-cultural preservation.
