National Tourism Mart–2025 to be Held in Visakhapatnam on February 13–14
Table of Contents
Source: THE HINDU
Relevance:
GS Paper 1: Indian Culture, Tourism Geography
Why in News?
The Andhra Pradesh Government announced that Visakhapatnam will host the National Tourism Mart–2025 on February 13–14, 2026, in collaboration with the Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI).
Key Features of National Tourism Mart–2025
• A two-day national-level tourism business event.
• Organised jointly by AP Tourism Department and ADTOI.
• Aimed at boosting domestic tourism and showcasing AP’s tourism potential.
MoU Between AP Govt & ADTOI
• A formal MoU was signed to organise the Tourism Mart.
• Ensures long-term partnership for domestic tourism promotion.
• Aligns AP with national tourism bodies for better visibility.
Tourism Segments to be Showcased
• Coastal tourism – Vizag beaches, waterfront destinations
• Spiritual tourism – temples, Buddhist sites
• Heritage tourism – historical monuments
• Eco-adventure tourism – hills, trekking, water sports
• Agency (tribal) tourism – Araku, Lambasingi, Maredumilli
Expected Participation
• Major tour operators
• Hotel and resort owners
• Travel agencies
• Destination promoters
• Tourism sector experts
• Hospitality industry representatives
Planned Activities
• B2B networking sessions
• Business meetings
• Destination presentations
• Panel discussions
• Familiarisation (FAM) trips to AP tourist spots
Benefits for Andhra Pradesh
• Increased tourist footfall
• Boost to local employment and small businesses
• Stronger linkages with national travel industry
• Promotion of lesser-known destinations
• Strengthening AP’s tourism brand nationally
Role of ADTOI
• Promote domestic tourism in India
• Highlight untapped destinations
• Support sustainable tourism models
• Assist in professionalising tourism services
Significance
• Positions Visakhapatnam as a national tourism hub.
• Enhances AP’s competitiveness in the tourism sector.
• Contributes to economic diversification, jobs, and rural tourism growth.
CARE MCQ
Q. The primary objective of the National Tourism Mart–2025 in Visakhapatnam is to:
(a) Promote international tourism exclusively
(b) Strengthen domestic tourism through B2B engagement
(c) Launch new aviation routes in South India
(d) Train rural youth in adventure sports
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
• The event is designed to boost domestic tourism through B2B networking, collaboration with ADTOI, destination showcases, and FAM trips.
• It does not focus exclusively on aviation or adventure-sport training.
