GUWAHATI, Nov 27: In an endeavour to elevate the artistic, cultural, and handicraft traditions of the Northeast, while simultaneously fostering the growth of the region’s tourism sector, the 12th edition of the International Tourism Mart (ITM) was inaugurated today in Kaziranga by Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in presence of Chief Minister Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma and Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Dr Sarma said that it is an immense honour to host the International Tourism Mart in the region for a third time. He expressed that this edition of the Mart would serve as a vibrant platform for the display of the Northeast’s multifaceted heritage – its culture, folk traditions, and the rich panorama of its historical narratives. It is through such engagements, he added, that both national and international delegates would be afforded the invaluable opportunity to engage intimately with Assam’s illustrious cultural and historical lineage.
Dr Sarma alluded to the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who, having spent a night at Kaziranga, bore witness to the park’s remarkable biodiversity, particularly its famed one-horned rhinoceros population. He mentioned other dignitaries, such as President Droupadi Murmu, former President Ram Nath Kovind, and the King of Bhutan, who too were captivated by the natural beauty of Kaziranga.
Dr Sarma noted with pride the recent recognition of Charaideo Maidam as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attributing this achievement to the concerted efforts of both Prime Minister Modi and Union Minister of Culture and Tourism. He emphasized Charaideo’s historical significance, particularly during the six centuries of Ahom rule, which contributed to Assam’s remarkable advancements in myriad fields during that time. Chief Minister Dr Sarma hailed this as a monumental success for the people of Assam, one that attests to the enduring legacy of the region.
Dr Sarma called upon all stakeholders and entrepreneurs involved in the tourism industry to collaborate in the development of the sector, underscoring the importance of unified efforts. In a reflection on the broader implications of sustainable tourism, he reiterated tourism’s role as a transformative agent of cultural exchange, environmental conservation, and economic growth. He emphasised that, as a global engine for economic development, tourism is of particular importance to developing economies, where it contributes significantly to GDP and serves as a vital source of employment, especially in areas where industrialization is limited. Dr Sarma underscored the pivotal role of tourism in the preservation of both cultural and natural heritage, drawing attention to Assam’s many treasures – from the verdant tea gardens and the awe-inspiring Brahmaputra River, to the State’s rich array of festivals and historical landmarks that attract adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and culture lovers alike.
He spoke of the spiritual and cultural importance of sites such as Kamakhya, Umananda, and Hajo, the latter of which embodies the harmonious confluence of Hindu, Buddhist, and Muslim traditions. Other notable
attractions, including Sualkuchi, celebrated for its exquisite silk weaving, Majuli, renowned for its Vaishnavite Satras, and Sivasagar, the historic capital of the Ahom kings, along with festivals such
as the Ambubachi Mela, Majuli’s Raas Mahotsav, and the Doul Utsav of Barpeta, were also highlighted as key elements contributing to the region’s vibrant cultural landscape.
In a testament to the region’s growing appeal, the Chief Minister noted that Assam had witnessed the arrival of ten lakh tourists the previous year, attributing this surge to the Prime Minister’s visit and the heightened attention towards Kaziranga. He also lauded the State government’s successful efforts to combat rhino poaching in Kaziranga, describing it as a monumental achievement in the conservation of the park’s biodiversity.
Dr Sarma appealed to the Union Minister of Culture and Tourism to consider including Majuli in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list, recognizing the island’s immense cultural and ecological significance. He also proposed the establishment of tourism museums in New Delhi and Guwahati, which would play a crucial role in promoting Northeast India as a distinct tourism circuit. He stressed that the establishment of such museums would, in turn, significantly boost the influx of both domestic and international visitors.
The Chief Minister also expressed his gratitude to the Union Minister for his steadfast support in bolstering Assam’s tourism infrastructure, including the ongoing beautification of Assam State Zoo in Guwahati and the Rang Ghar in Sivasagar as iconic sites.
Today’s event was attended by Tourism Ministers from the eight Northeast states, several State cabinet ministers, Members of Parliament, entrepreneurs, and numerous other dignitaries.
