Imphal hosts 5th international tourism mart

The North East Region of India, which comprises of the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim, has high tourism potential which has not been completely explored.

With an aim to highlight the tourism potential of the region, the 5th International Tourism Mart was held in Imphal, which saw participation from various stakeholders of the eight North Eastern States and West Bengal as well.

The mart was inaugurated by Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh in the presence of Union Tourism Secretary Vinod Zutshi and others.

Delegates and buyers from several countries also took part in the mart which facilitated interaction among different players. Eighty representatives from across India also participated in the mart.

"This mart is a great forum for tour operators who are selling to northeast India. Different Tour operators have come here. Compared to other parts of India I think we are strong in cultural and adventure tourism because there are lots of possibilities for promoting tourism because our culture is very unique which one would find nowhere else," said Tsering Wange, Managing Director, Himalayan Holidays, Arunachal Pradesh.

The event saw the participation of 57 Buyer delegates from ASEAN, Japan, Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Spain, Russia, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Netherlands, Kenya, Oman, Canada, Brazil, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, United Kingdom and USA.

"Manipur has been participating in the tourism mart held by other states of northeast. This is an opportunity for Manipur tourism as the ministry had agreed to organize along with the Sangai fest in Manipur which would help Manipur to showcase their different aspects," said Shyamlal Punia, Joint Secretary Manipur Tourism.

Representatives of various state tourism departments showcased various tourist destinations. The three day event also included presentations by state governments. An exhibition by State Tourism Departments from the North Eastern States and West Bengal was also organized on the occasion.

"Basically for northeast region it is a best platform to promote our states. In tourism sector much more promotion activities is need all over India as well in the world," said Roshan Tamang, Tour Operator Sikkim.

Previously Guwahati, Tawang, Shillong and Gangtok have held the marts. Such events not only highlight the rich heritage, traditions, festivals, arts and crafts but also help in attracting tourists and boosting economic growth of the region and the country.