14th International Tourism Mart Inaugurated in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

The 14th International Tourism Mart (ITM) is being held in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, from 29-31 October 2026. Organised by the Ministry of Tourism in association with Arunachal Pradesh and other North Eastern States. Focuses on showcasing the tourism potential of the eight North Eastern States and strengthening tourism business partnerships.

Key Highlights
- Attended by Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, MoS Tourism Suresh Gopi, Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu, and Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang.
- ITM has evolved into a platform for tourism partnerships, business opportunities, and regional collaboration.

Tourism Potential of Northeast India
- Strong opportunities in:
- Adventure tourism
- Nature-based tourism
- Cultural and experiential tourism
- Music festivals and concert tourism
- Emphasis on sustainable development, safety standards, and community participation.

Record Industry Participation
- 43 international buyers from 22 countries (highest-ever participation).
- 42 domestic buyers from 16 States/UTs.
- 81 sellers participating in the Mart.

Tourism Growth
- Domestic tourist visits to the North East increased from 95.65 lakh in 2019 to 1.51 crore in 2025.
- Represents approximately 58% growth.

Infrastructure & Connectivity Investments
- ₹1,309 crore sanctioned under Swadesh Darshan 1.0 (16 projects).
- ₹564 crore under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (17 projects).
- ₹139 crore under Challenge Based Destination Development (9 projects).
- ₹790 crore under SASCI (9 projects).
- ₹258 crore under PRASHAD (9 projects).
- 10 tourism routes supported under the UDAN connectivity scheme.

Other Highlights
- North East Bazaar inaugurated to showcase regional handicrafts and handlooms.
- Cultural performances highlighted traditions from across the North Eastern States.
- Tourism presentations and B2B meetings scheduled among stakeholders.

Strategic Significance
- Marks the return of ITM to Tawang after 13 years.
- Aims to promote lesser-known destinations, strengthen tourism partnerships, and position Northeast India as a leading destination for sustainable and experience-based tourism.