Bhopal, July 2024: The 39th IATO Annual Convention, slated for August 30 to September 2, 2024 in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, will focus on India’s inbound tourism growth potential. With the theme “Resurgent India Inbound,” the conference seeks to capitalize on the potential for development and explore new prospects in the tourist industry.
Ravi Gosain, Vice President of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), has been named Chairman of the Convention, with Sunil Mishra, Honorary Treasurer, and Mahendra Singh, Chairman of the IATO Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh Chapter, serving as Co-Chairmen. Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary Tourism and MD of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, stressed the convention’s importance as a dynamic venue for developing new collaborations and marketing state destinations.
The event will be hosted at the Taj Lakefront in Bhopal, where all events will take place, including registration, the opening ceremony, business sessions, and evening entertainment. The Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh has orally guaranteed his attendance to kick off the event on August 30, 2024.
The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and numerous state tourism agencies will participate in the conference, which is expected to draw participants from about 15 states. Approximately 900-1000 participants, including senior Ministry of Tourism officials, state legislators, industry leaders, tourism and hospitality experts, and travel trade journalists, are expected to attend.
Ravi Gosain stated that 10 post-convention excursions are planned to highlight Madhya Pradesh’s charms to tourism stakeholders, marketing these locations in both local and international markets. Shukla went on to say that the conference would be an ideal chance to sell state locations, with an emphasis on spiritual and historical itineraries, as well as FAM trips that represent the state’s culture, heritage, wildlife, and cuisine.
Throughout the three-day conference, many sessions will address important challenges in the tourist industry, with professionals from diverse sectors participating in the discussions. In addition, the IATO Run for Responsible Tourism will be held on September 1, with prizes awarded to winners and runners-up. Evening entertainment activities will also be offered, allowing attendees to unwind and network.
The Indian Tourism Fair (Travel Mart) will be held on August 31 and September 1, 2024, at the Taj Lakefront in Bhopal. This event will allow members to meet with state tourism departments and other stakeholders, encouraging collaboration and promoting tourism.
The 39th IATO Convention in Bhopal is expected to be a big event, renewing India’s inbound tourism and emphasizing Madhya Pradesh as an important destination for travelers globally.
