Correct Answer : Kaziranga National Park
The 12th Edition of the International Tourism Mart (ITM), in Kaziranga in Assam was inaugurated (27th Nov 2024) by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in presence of Chief Minister of Assam Dr. Himanta Biswa Sharma and Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Shri Pema Khandu.
Union Minister Shri Shekhawat in his address underscored the Northeast’s legacy, cultural diversity, and natural wealth emphasizing its rich cuisine, crafts and biodiversity.
This ITM is a remarkable opportunity for Northeast India to showcase its rich culture and diversity to the world and also offers a platform for people from across the globe to witness the extraordinary heritage of this region, he said.
He further highlighted the significance of hosting the ITM in Kaziranga, stating that it reflects the increasing importance of the Northeast on the national stage. Mentioning the event in Kaziranga as special, the minister said that over the past decade, development in the region has accelerated.
The Minister noted that hosting ITM in Kaziranga aligns with the celebration of the 50th anniversary of Kaziranga being declared a national park. He acknowledged the park's remarkable growth, with its area expanding from 400 sq. km to 1,300 sq. km in the last 10 years.
This event not only celebrates Kaziranga’s legacy but also provides a platform to explore the vast tourism potential of the Northeast. The region holds immense potential and this Mart serves as a gateway to enhance it, Shri Shekhawat stated.
The minister also added that the tourism potential of India is set to grow more in the coming years, with the Northeast playing a pivotal role in this growth.
Chief Minister of Assam Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma in his address said that this mart offers the international students and global influencers an immersive opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty and cultural richness. This event will highlight the vast potential of tourism in NE not just as industry but as a transformative force for cultural exchange, ecological preservation and economic development, he added.
From November 26th to 29th, 2024, in Kaziranga, Assam, the ITM takes place in Northeast region renowned for its diverse topography, rich flora and fauna, vibrant ethnic communities, ancient traditions, festivals, and abundant arts and crafts. Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the majestic one-horned rhino, adds to the allure of this event.
A Coffee Table Book on Assam “Guwahati and Around” published by Assam Tourism Development Corporation Limited was also launched. The book takes a comprehensive look at the rich heritage, culture and diversity of Guwahati and its picturesque surroundings. The book is a visual tapestry in words capturing the true essence of the region...
Source : PIB
