The 12th International Tourism Mart (ITM) will take place in Kaziranga from November 26 to 29, 2024. This annual event is crucial for promoting tourism in the northeastern states of India. It serves as a platform for tourism businesses to connect and collaborate. The focus is on sustainability and enhancing the region’s tourism potential for both domestic and international visitors.
Event Overview
The ITM will attract around 400 participants. This includes tour operators, hoteliers, and media representatives. The event aims to create a vibrant atmosphere for networking and knowledge sharing. The Ministry of Tourism is the main organiser.
Sustainability Initiatives
A key feature of this year’s ITM is its commitment to sustainability. The event aligns with the Travel for Life initiative. It will implement energy-efficient practices. Single-use plastics will be eliminated to minimise environmental impact.
Activities and Highlights
The three-day event will include diverse activities. Participants can expect presentations from state governments. There will be B2B meetings and panel discussions. Cultural evenings and live music will enhance the experience. Additionally, food demonstrations will showcase local cuisine.
Technical Visits
Participants will also have the opportunity for technical visits. Significant sites include the Charaideo Moidam, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kaziranga National Park will be a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts. Other sites include the Hathikuli Tea Estate and the Orchid and Biodiversity Park.
Networking Opportunities
The ITM will facilitate interactions among various stakeholders. This includes government agencies, media, and tourism service providers. Such networking is essential for encouraging collaborations. It can lead to innovative tourism solutions and partnerships.
Expected Outcomes
The event is expected to enhance the visibility of northeastern tourism. It aims to attract more visitors to the region. The focus on sustainability will also set a benchmark for future tourism events.
Conclusion
The ITM 2024 will play role in promoting the northeastern region. It will showcase its rich culture and natural beauty. The commitment to sustainability will resonate with modern travellers.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically analyse the role of tourism in the economic development of northeastern India.
- What is the significance of the Travel for Life initiative? How does it impact tourism practices?
- Estimate the potential benefits of hosting international tourism events in India.
- Point out the challenges faced by the tourism sector in promoting sustainability. Provide suitable examples.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically analyse the role of tourism in the economic development of northeastern India.
- Tourism contributes to local economies through job creation and income generation.
- It promotes infrastructure development, including transportation and hospitality services.
- Tourism enhances cultural exchange, preserving local traditions and heritage.
- It attracts investments from both domestic and international stakeholders.
- The sector can help reduce poverty by providing livelihoods to local communities.
2. What is the significance of the Travel for Life initiative? How does it impact tourism practices?
- The Travel for Life initiative promotes sustainable tourism practices to protect natural resources.
- It encourages responsible travel, minimizing the carbon footprint of tourism activities.
- The initiative aims to raise awareness about environmental conservation among tourists and operators.
- It sets guidelines for tourism businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices.
- This approach can enhance the tourism experience by preserving destinations for future generations.
3. Estimate the potential benefits of hosting international tourism events in India.
- International events boost the visibility of India’s diverse tourism offerings on a global scale.
- They attract foreign investments and encourage partnerships between local and international businesses.
- Such events can enhance the skills and knowledge of local stakeholders through exposure.
- They create opportunities for cultural exchange, promoting India’s rich heritage.
- Hosting international events can lead to increased tourist arrivals and economic growth in the region.
4. Point out the challenges faced by the tourism sector in promoting sustainability. Provide suitable examples.
- Balancing economic growth with environmental protection poses challenge.
- Infrastructure development often leads to habitat destruction and pollution (e.g., overdevelopment in popular tourist areas).
- Lack of awareness and training among local stakeholders about sustainable practices is prevalent.
- Seasonal tourism can result in resource overuse and strain on local communities (e.g., water shortages during peak seasons).
- Government policies may not always align with sustainability goals, hindering effective implementation.
