Home » ASIA » The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) 39th Convention Concluded with Hall of Fame Awards, Future Trends, and Emerging Destinations in Bhopal
Monday, September 9, 2024
The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), the apex body representing inbound tour operators, recently held its 39th annual convention in Bhopal. The event, which took place from August 30 to September 1, was inaugurated by Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav. With over 1200 members from across the country and senior representatives from tourism ministries of 13 states, this year’s convention marked a record turnout.
Focus on Boosting Foreign Tourism and Developing Tourist Infrastructure
The three-day event featured various sessions centered on enhancing foreign tourism in Madhya Pradesh and across India. Key discussions revolved around developing new tourist spots, improving existing facilities, and addressing challenges faced by the tourism sector. Solutions and strategies to overcome these obstacles were explored during multiple sessions.
The convention also set the stage for the next gathering, which will be held in Puri, Odisha.
Hall of Fame Award Honors Industry Leaders
During the event, prominent figures from the tourism and hospitality industry were honored. Mr. Puneet Chhatwal, MD and CEO of Indian Hotel Company Limited, and Late Shri M.L. Razdan of Razdan Holidays (posthumously) received the prestigious Hall of Fame award for their contributions to the sector.
IATO’s Commitment to Inbound Tourism
IATO President Rajiv Mehra and Vice President Ravi Gosain opened the convention by emphasizing the association’s critical role in driving inbound tourism. They reiterated their commitment to boosting tourism in Madhya Pradesh, with a promise to leave no stone unturned in promoting the state as a prime tourist destination. A special presentation titled “Manmohak Madhya Pradesh Heartland of India”, directed by Maitrei Pahari, showcased the rich heritage and culture of the region.
Business Sessions Highlight Future of Indian Tourism
Eight business sessions were held, covering a variety of topics, including “Resurgent India Inbound,” “Discovering the Undiscovered,” and the future of AI in inbound tourism. Legal challenges and women’s empowerment in tourism were also discussed. Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary and MD of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, outlined government initiatives to develop 50 new tourist destinations, aimed at easing congestion at overcrowded spots. He stressed the importance of collaboration between stakeholders for better policy outcomes.
While speaking at the inauguration MP CM Dr. Mohan Yadav said, “The state is endowed with multiple UNESCO world heritage sites and some of the monuments are such that their design is a challenge for experts even today. About our fauna, what to say, you can find Tigers on the roads in Bhopal. The state is rich in wildlife, cultural and religious tourism and has huge potential to attract the foreign tourists.”
Showcasing Lesser-Known Destinations
Tourism representatives from various states, including Assam, Gujarat, Karnataka, and Odisha, highlighted lesser-known tourist destinations. The convention saw active participation from 13 states, alongside the host state of Madhya Pradesh.
Closing Highlights and New Tourism Initiatives
The Deputy Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Shri Rajendra Shukla, graced the concluding session, focusing on the importance of branding in tourism. State Tourism Minister Shri Dharmendra Singh Lodhi also shared updates on several initiatives, such as developing Kuno National Park and converting lakes into tourist destinations. He announced plans for 1000 home stays and other measures aimed at boosting tourism.
Said Mr Rajiv Mehra, President IATO, “The convention which is held in different cities of the country every year, is organised with the objective of showcasing the specific city’s as well as that state’s tourism potential and draw in more foreign tourists with innovative strategies and help in boosting local economy.The response we received this year was unprecedented and we look forward to replicating this success at our next convention in Puri, Odisha”
The convention concluded with a “Run for Responsible Tourism,” where over 500 members participated, followed by special Fam tours to showcase emerging destinations.
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