Gangtok, Nov 6: Sikkim will host the 13th International Tourism Mart (ITM) from November 13 to 16, officials announced at a press briefing on Thursday.
The briefing was addressed by T T Bhutia, Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation and Commerce and Industries Departments; Additional Chief Secretary C S Rao; and PCE-cum-Secretary Neeraj Pradhan.
Minister T T Bhutia said the event, organised by the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, aims to promote tourism in the North Eastern region. He noted that Sikkim had previously hosted the 4th edition of the ITM.
He added that Chief Ministers, Tourism Ministers, and key stakeholders from all North Eastern states will participate, along with around 300 international delegates. A North Eastern Bazar will also be set up to showcase local products. Public participation is encouraged, and B2B meetings are planned to strengthen tourism linkages.
Additional Chief Secretary C S Rao said the ITM will be held at the Upper Ground of Sikkim Armed Police, Pangthang, with participants from 18 countries. The inaugural session is scheduled for November 14. He called for coordinated support from all line departments to ensure the event’s success while preserving Sikkim’s cultural identity.
PCE-cum-Secretary Neeraj Pradhan highlighted that the ITM provides a platform for promoting local products, ideas, and innovations. He said the presence of global participants offers local stakeholders an opportunity to showcase their work and enhance Sikkim’s visibility on the international tourism map.
