Aizawl, Nov 18: Union Minister of Tourism G Kishan Reddy on Thursday inaugurated the 10th International Tourism Mart (ITM), being held between 17th – 19th November, 2022, at R Dengthuama Hall, Aizawl. Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga, tourism minister Robert Romawia Royte, chief secretary Dr Renu Sharma and Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Arvind Singh were also present at the event.

The Union Minister and Chief Minister jointly laid the foundation stone for four projects namely Aizawl Convention Centre at Chite, PRASHAD Project, two Bamboo Link Roads under PM DevINE – Tuirial Airfield to North Chaltlang and Lengpui to Saiphal. The Minister also released Mizoram Tourism Coffee Table Book.

Addressing the event, Reddy said Mizoram is a beautiful state with huge potential in adventure and eco-tourism and that ITM plans to facilitate interaction between government agencies and stakeholders.

He pointed out that the assumption of G20 presidency by India will be a big boost in opening the scope of investment in hospitality as well as adventure, cruise and wellness tourism. The Minister is hopeful that G20 meetings which will be held across the country including Northeast will provide a platform to showcase the culture, history and tourism potential of the Northeast region to the world.

He also thanked the state government for the establishment of YUVA Tourism Clubs in schools and colleges.

The Minister mentioned the various development works in the northeast indicate the commitment of the Central government to bring holistic development to the Northeast region. He applauded the presence of a stable government and leadership in the Northeast that paves the way for development through collective effort and enhances competitive spirit.

Chief Minister of Mizoram Zoramthanga also emphasised the tourism potential of the state and thanked the Central Government for approving various development-oriented projects for the state.

Robert Romawia Royte, Tourism Minister, expressed his delight in hosting ITM for the first time in Mizoram. While acknowledging the challenges ahead, the minister was hopeful that ITM will enhance people to people contact and break certain cultural barriers.