Northeast India: A Rising Star in MICE Tourism
The Indian government is focusing on infrastructure development, and the MICE industry is seeing increased interest in the Northeast region. MICE stands for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions, a type of business travel. Corporates are choosing Northeast India for MICE activities due to its unique natural ecosystem. Abhishek Gupta, Co-Founder of Trip Navigator, notes a rise in events there post-COVID, driven by the Prime Minister’s regional push.
The Ministry of Tourism is promoting the Northeast through initiatives like Swadesh Darshan, providing financial aid for projects such as a Convention Centre in Aizawl. Traditional MICE destinations like Delhi and Goa still lead, but the Northeast is gaining traction with events like the Hornbill Festival and G-20 Summit showcasing its cultural heritage.
Despite India’s natural and cultural advantages, it holds less than 1% of the global MICE market. In 2019, the global MICE industry was valued at USD 900 billion, with India’s share at Rs. 37,576 crore. The exhibition industry in India is growing over 8% annually, with significant economic impact. The government is supporting MICE tourism with projects like Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi Convention Centre.
Experts suggest India should develop unique innovations and cultural landmarks to stand out globally, enhancing its MICE business visibility.
Doubts Revealed
Northeast India -: Northeast India is a region in India that includes states like Assam, Meghalaya, and Manipur. It is known for its beautiful landscapes and diverse cultures.
MICE Tourism -: MICE stands for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions. It is a type of tourism where people travel for business events and gatherings.
Swadesh Darshan -: Swadesh Darshan is a scheme by the Indian government to develop theme-based tourist circuits in India. It aims to promote tourism and showcase India’s rich cultural heritage.
Bharat Mandapam -: Bharat Mandapam is a project by the Indian government to create large convention centers for hosting big events and conferences. It helps in promoting MICE tourism by providing modern facilities.
