Shillong, Oct 14 (IANS): Tourism Minister Shripad Yesso Naik Tuesday urged states to develop innovative tourism products and services while noting concerted efforts are required to develop adventure, eco and rural tourism.

Speaking at the inauguration of the third International Tourism Mart here, Naik stressed the need to "develop niche and innovative tourism" products and services which should be the focus areas for state governments and the private sector.

"Concerted efforts are required to develop adventure tourism, eco tourism, rural tourism including home stays and birding tours in this region," he said.

Naik also urged the participants to discuss new tourism products of the northeast region.

"This platform should be used by the tourism stake holders from the northeast region to interact with their international counterparts and also with the tour operators from other regions of the country," he said.

Naik also pointed out that the ministry is "working out an action plan for cleanliness of tourism spots in the country".

"This is sought to be done with the active participation of the private sector in order to build up the necessary tourism infrastructure which will facilitate travel and hospitality," he said.

The three day event began Oct 13 but was formally inaugurated Tuesday.