Sikkim Tourism minister leads team to ITM 2024

PRITAM LAMA

GANGTOK,: Sikkim Tourism minister Tshering T. Bhutia, along with a high-level delegation, is participating in the International Tourism Mart (ITM) 2024 in Kaziranga, Assam.

The four-day event, which kicked off on Tuesday runs through November 29, is being hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. It aims to foster tourism and cultural exchange among the eight Northeastern States: Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim.

Accompanying the minister are MLA and Advisor Sudesh Kumar Limboo, MLA and former Tourism minister B.S. Panth, senior tourism officials and stakeholders. Together, they are promoting Sikkim’s tourism potential to a wide range of domestic and international stakeholders, including tour operators, hoteliers, and homestay owners.

Upon arrival, the Sikkim delegation received a warm reception from Assam government representatives.

The ITM 2024, with over 400 participants, offers a vibrant platform for business-to-business (B2B) meetings, state presentations, and cultural showcases. Delegates are also participating in food demonstrations, giving attendees a taste of the region’s unique culinary heritage.

Speaking over the phone to this correspondent, minister Bhutia emphasized the importance of the ITM in helping Sikkim strengthen its position as a premier tourist destination in the region. He noted that the event provides an excellent opportunity to highlight the State’s natural beauty, sustainable tourism practices, and cultural richness to an international audience.

This event offers an excellent opportunity for Sikkim to showcase its unique offerings and to collaborate with stakeholders from across the region, said minister Bhutia.

The Sikkim delegation has been actively engaging with various stakeholders and representatives, promoting the State’s tourism offerings, including its eco-tourism initiatives and vibrant cultural traditions.