The 40th Annual Convention of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) began on August 22nd evening at Swosti Premium Beach Resorts in Puri, drawing over 1,200 delegates from across India.
The inaugural session featured a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony attended by key dignitaries, including Union Tourism Minister Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Smt. Pravati Parida, Additional Director General of Tourism Shri Suman Billa, Chhattisgarh Tourism Chairman Neelu Sharma, along with IATO President Ravi Gosain, Immediate Past President Rajiv Mehra, and Swosti Group CMD J.K. Mohanty.
This year’s theme, “Rejuvenate Inbound,” reflects the association’s focus on boosting India’s inbound tourism market. The three-day convention is packed with business sessions, expert discussions, and networking opportunities aimed at addressing industry challenges and identifying fresh opportunities for growth.
The programme also includes the Indian Tourism Fair (Travel Mart) on August 23–24, providing a platform for members to engage with state tourism boards and stakeholders to explore partnerships and collaborations.The Hall of frame award was presented to Pronab Sarkar, MD, Swagatam Tours and former IATO President.
To highlight Odisha’s tourism potential, delegates will participate in post-convention tours that showcase the state’s cultural, spiritual, and natural attractions, giving them valuable insights to promote the destination globally.
It was also announced during the event that Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, will host the 41st IATO Annual Convention in 2026, continuing the legacy of fostering stronger collaborations in India’s tourism sector.
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