TAWANG : Preparations have begun for the 14th edition of the International Tourism Mart (ITM) 2026, which will be jointly organised by the Union Ministry of Tourism and the Arunachal Pradesh Department of Tourism in Tawang during the last week of October.

A preliminary coordination meeting was held at the Circuit House here on Saturday to draw up a roadmap for the successful conduct of the event.

The meeting was attended by Tawang Additional Deputy Commissioner Rinchin Leta, Union Ministry of Tourism Deputy Director General R K Suman, Deputy Director General Bharati K Sharma, Assistant Director Amit Raj, Arunachal Pradesh Department of Tourism Deputy Director Bengia Manna Sonam, District Tourism Officer Tsering Deki, Tourism Information Officer Tenzin Tsamche, Assistant Protocol Officer Sange Tsering, Arunachal Pradesh Tour Operators Association General Secretary Sangey Tsering, and representatives of Ashoka Events.

The participants reviewed key logistical and operational aspects, including accommodation, transportation, venue readiness, security, hospitality, event management and the proposed programme schedule. They also discussed measures to ensure seamless coordination among all stakeholders and provide a memorable experience for delegates and visitors.

As part of the preparations, officials from the Union Ministry of Tourism and the state Tourism Department conducted a detailed recce of the Guwahati-Tawang route to assess logistical requirements and improve the overall visitor experience. The team also inspected major venues and facilities, including Vivanta Tawang, Kalawangpo Convention Hall, PTSO and other key locations to assess infrastructure and preparedness.

The return of the International Tourism Mart to Tawang, after it was last hosted in 2013, is expected to provide a major platform to showcase the district’s Himalayan landscape, Monpa culture, Buddhist heritage, hospitality and potential for adventure, eco and spiritual tourism.

The event is expected to bring together senior government officials, tourism professionals, travel trade representatives, investors, media personnel and delegates from India and abroad, creating opportunities for tourism promotion, business networking and sustainable economic growth.

Officials expressed confidence that with coordinated planning and active community participation, Tawang would successfully host the international event and further strengthen Arunachal Pradesh’s position as a leading tourism destination. (DIPR)