From emerging outbound tourism trends and evolving traveller preferences to AI-driven transformation and new business opportunities, TAAI leaders and members share their perspectives on the industry’s changing landscape and expectations from this milestone Convention.
Compiled by Priyanka Saxena Ray, Shreya Shimpi and Pallavi Sharma
Sunil Kumar R.
President, TAAI
The 69th TAAI Convention & Exhibition in Kolkata is a historic occasion as we celebrate 75 glorious years of excellence, leadership and service to India’s travel and tourism industry. Established in 1951, TAAI has grown into a strong collective voice representing nearly 2,500 member companies, and this milestone belongs to every member who has contributed to our journey.
We have consciously chosen to host this landmark Convention in India, reaffirming our commitment to Incredible India and showcasing the country’s immense tourism potential. Kolkata, with its rich heritage, culture and hospitality, provides a wonderful setting for this celebration.
Our theme, “Empowering Evolution,” reflects the need for travel businesses to remain relevant in a rapidly changing industry. Artificial Intelligence, emerging technologies, evolving traveller expectations and new business models are transforming tourism. We must embrace these changes while strengthening the role of travel professionals.
With approximately 900 delegates and media expected, I look forward to meaningful discussions, knowledge sharing, networking and stronger industry partnerships. Above all, I hope members return with fresh perspectives and practical opportunities for growth. As we celebrate our past and present, our greatest responsibility is preparing TAAI and its members for the future.
Shreeram Patel
Hon. Secretary General, TAAI
As we celebrate 75 glorious years of TAAI, our upcoming Convention in Kolkata is more than just an event; it is a celebration of our journey, unity and the collective strength of India’s oldest and largest travel trade association. This landmark occasion reflects decades of achievements, partnerships and the unwavering commitment of our members towards strengthening India’s travel and tourism industry.
The Convention will bring together members from across India, offering valuable opportunities for business networking, knowledge sharing, exploring new avenues of growth and meaningful industry interactions. It will also provide a platform to reconnect with colleagues, exchange ideas and collectively look towards the future of our industry.
I sincerely urge every TAAI member to register, participate wholeheartedly and encourage fellow members to join us. Your presence will add immense significance to this historic milestone. Let us come together in Kolkata and make this 75th anniversary Convention truly memorable. See you all in Kolkata!
Bettaiah Lokesh
Vice President, TAAI
TAAI’s 69th Convention & Exhibition will be held in the City of Joy and Cultural Capital of India, Kolkata, West Bengal, from October 25–27, 2026, at ITC Royal Bengal. Under the inspiring theme “Empowering Evolution – Journey Beyond Today, Bash On Regardless,” we extend a warm welcome to all delegates for what promises to be the Convention of the Decade!
Over three action-packed days, delegates will gain exclusive insights through keynote sessions featuring global visionaries and industry pioneers who are rewriting the rules of travel. Targeted masterclasses will offer practical learning on AI integration in travel marketing, sustainable tourism practices and risk management, helping members prepare for emerging industry opportunities.
The Convention will also facilitate networking with over 700 agency owners, tour operators, aviation professionals, hospitality leaders, invitees and representatives from state and international tourism boards through dedicated B2B sessions and evening galas.
We look forward to welcoming everyone to Kolkata!
Paras Lakhia
Hon. Treasurer, TAAI
We are truly delighted and excited as we celebrate 75 glorious years of TAAI across the country, marking a remarkable journey of legacy, leadership and dedicated service to India’s travel and tourism industry. This milestone is a proud moment for every TAAI member and reflects the association’s longstanding contribution towards bringing the travel trade community together.
The 69th TAAI Convention, being held during this memorable anniversary year at the magnificent ITC Royal Bengal, Kolkata, from October 25–27, promises to be a grand gathering of our industry. It will bring together members, partners, friends and industry leaders to celebrate our shared achievements, strengthen relationships and look ahead to an even more promising future.
It is truly a privilege to be part of this wonderful TAAI team as we celebrate 75 years of our association. I am extremely excited about this special occasion and look forward to seeing everyone in Kolkata!
Rajan Sehgal
Chairman – Public Relations Council & Member MC, TAAI
2026 is a historic year for TAAI as we celebrate 75 glorious years of dedicated service to India’s travel and tourism industry. This milestone reflects the association’s remarkable journey, its contribution to the industry and the strong bonds that unite our travel trade fraternity.
We have chosen West Bengal to host this historic Convention as it offers an excellent opportunity to showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage, spiritual traditions, art, music and distinctive cuisine. Kolkata, fondly known as the City of Joy and Love, will welcome our members and industry colleagues to the magnificent ITC Royal Bengal for this memorable celebration.
Beyond the Convention, we want delegates to explore the unexplored and discover the hidden gems of West Bengal. Through this gathering, we hope to encourage travellers from other Indian states and across the world to experience the diverse tourism offerings of West Bengal.
Anurag Agarwal
Hon. Secretary, TAAI Northern Region
Travel never really stops. It may slow down during challenging times, but it always revives, often faster than expected. India’s outbound market currently faces disruptions in the Middle East, rising airfares and a stronger US dollar, but demand remains resilient. Japan and Vietnam have emerged as strong favourites, while Malaysia is witnessing significant growth. Bali continues to attract Indian travellers, and Thailand and Singapore remain perennial favourites. Experiential travel, family holidays, luxury, honeymoons and MICE will continue to drive growth.
We are entering a new travel environment shaped by AI, bringing excitement as well as uncertainty. Technology has always played an important role in our industry’s evolution. I look forward to the TAAI Convention in Kolkata as an opportunity to understand these changes, explore emerging travel trends and discover how AI can enhance our businesses. My biggest takeaway would be learning something new and returning with practical ideas that help the travel trade grow.
Dr. Manoj Sogani
Chairman, TAAI Rajasthan Chapter
We are delighted to celebrate 75 remarkable years of TAAI with the 69th TAAI Convention in Kolkata. With the City of Joy as our host, October promises to be a festive and exciting experience, bringing together TAAI members, airline heads, industry experts and distinguished speakers at the magnificent ITC Royal Bengal.
The Convention will feature a vibrant B2B Expo, tourism board partnerships, valuable networking opportunities, entertainment and engaging knowledge sessions. It will provide an excellent platform for members to connect, exchange ideas, strengthen business relationships and explore new opportunities within the travel and tourism industry.
Delegates will also have the opportunity to experience the warm hospitality, distinctive cuisine, rich culture and traditions of West Bengal. With extensive industry participation and live media coverage, the Convention will explore how Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies can be effectively integrated into travel businesses and everyday operations, preparing members for the industry’s evolving future.
Hemendra Singh Jadon
Chairman, TAAI MP & CG Chapter
India’s outbound tourism market continues to show strong momentum, driven by rising aspirations, improved connectivity and travellers seeking diverse experiences. We are witnessing growing interest in leisure, luxury, MICE, family holidays and experiential travel. Destinations offering unique experiences, seamless connectivity and value will continue attracting Indian travellers. Emerging destinations and customised travel also hold immense potential, as today’s travellers are more informed, experience-driven and willing to explore beyond conventional choices.
The 69th TAAI Convention in Kolkata is especially significant as we celebrate 75 years of excellence, leadership and service to the industry. I look forward to meaningful networking, knowledge sharing and stronger collaboration among members and industry stakeholders. Hosting the Convention in India also reinforces our commitment to Incredible India. I hope this gathering creates new business opportunities, strengthens member engagement and provides the travel fraternity with a clear vision for the next chapter of India’s travel and tourism industry.
Hina Sheeraz
Chairperson, TAAI Uttar Pradesh & Uttarakhand Chapter
India’s outbound tourism market remains strong, diverse and increasingly experience-driven. Travellers are moving beyond sightseeing to seek meaningful experiences, wellness, luxury, family holidays, celebrations and cultural exploration. Short-haul destinations across Southeast Asia and the Middle East, along with established European markets, will continue attracting interest, particularly those offering good connectivity and seamless visa processes.
Families, women-only groups, millennials, Gen Z, luxury travellers and MICE groups are emerging as key growth segments. Wellness, culinary journeys, cruises, personalised itineraries and curated group travel will drive demand.
I look forward to the TAAI Convention in Kolkata as a platform for networking, knowledge sharing and collaboration. Discussions on emerging destinations, AI, evolving traveller behaviour and experiential tourism will be valuable. I hope members build stronger B2B relationships, explore business opportunities and return with practical insights, reinforcing TAAI’s role in shaping the future of India’s travel and tourism industry.
Amit Navlani
Hon. Secretary / Incoming Chairman (2026–2028), TAAI MP & CG Chapter; Co-founder, Travel Solutions
India’s outbound tourism market continues to grow steadily, driven by travellers seeking safe, seamless and experience-led holidays. The UAE is witnessing renewed interest due to its world-class infrastructure, attractive offerings and ease of travel, while Vietnam, Japan and Central Asia are gaining momentum. Direct flight connectivity has become an important deciding factor for travellers choosing international destinations.
Family holidays, FITs and premium experiential travel are expected to drive growth in the coming months, with travel agents offering personalised and thoughtfully curated journeys benefiting the most.
As TAAI celebrates 75 glorious years, I look forward to meeting industry leaders, airline heads, tourism boards and fellow travel professionals at the Kolkata Convention. I expect valuable insights into AI, innovation and the future of travel, alongside stronger industry relationships and new business opportunities. The Convention will also provide an opportunity to discover Kolkata, West Bengal and the Northeast while strengthening our travel fraternity.
Irshad Hazari
Honorary Secretary, TAAI J&K Chapter
It is a great honour and privilege to be part of the 69th TAAI Convention & Exhibition, celebrating the remarkable journey, achievements and collective strength of India’s travel fraternity. As TAAI marks 75 glorious years of service to the travel and tourism industry, this historic Convention offers an excellent opportunity for members to come together, exchange ideas and strengthen professional relationships.
As Chairman of the TAAI Jammu & Kashmir Chapter, I look forward to bringing the spirit of Kashmir to this prestigious national platform while highlighting the importance of collaboration, innovation and collective growth.
The Convention will provide valuable opportunities to foster meaningful partnerships, share industry experiences and explore new business possibilities. I hope it encourages constructive discussions on emerging opportunities and challenges facing our industry. Together, through stronger relationships and shared knowledge, we can work towards building a more sustainable, resilient and globally competitive tourism industry.
Pradeep Kumar Rai
Secretary, TAAI Uttar Pradesh & Uttarakhand Chapter
I am proud and excited to be part of the 69th TAAI Convention & Exhibition – Indian Travel Congress 2026 in Kolkata, as we celebrate 75 glorious years of TAAI. This landmark occasion represents an extraordinary journey of excellence, leadership, unity and dedicated service to India’s travel and tourism industry.
The Convention is not merely an opportunity to look back at our achievements but also an important platform to shape the future of Indian travel and tourism. It brings together members and industry stakeholders to exchange knowledge, explore opportunities and strengthen the relationships that have contributed to our association’s success over the decades. I look forward to connecting with fellow industry leaders, sharing ideas, developing new partnerships and celebrating the spirit of Incredible India.
Jay Bhatia
Director, Tulsidas Khimji Holidays
Indian outbound travel remains resilient, although the Middle East crisis continues to affect travel to the region and parts of Europe. We see promising opportunities in Japan, South Korea, Australia, the Indian Ocean and increasingly Africa, which remains relatively unexplored by Indian travellers. Luxury FITs, families and younger experiential travellers will drive growth, with greater demand for personalised and longer holidays. Improving direct connectivity will support this growth, although visa processing extending beyond 12–15 days remains a concern.
As TAAI celebrates 75 years of leadership, representation and collective strength, the Kolkata Convention should honour our legacy while looking firmly towards the future. TAAI Conventions have consistently set high standards through forward-looking knowledge sessions and valuable member networking. I look forward to discussions on how AI can empower travel businesses and stimulate growth, while strengthening our collective voice with the Government, IATA and industry stakeholders on necessary reforms and emerging challenges.
Harmandeep Singh Anand
Managing Director, Jagsons Travels, Nagpur;
Co-founder, Global Panorama Showcase (GPS)
India’s outbound tourism market remains resilient, increasingly driven by Tier-II and Tier-III cities such as Nagpur, where first-time international travellers and aspirational families are fuelling demand. Short-haul destinations including Vietnam, Thailand, Dubai, Bali and Sri Lanka continue attracting travellers through value offerings and easier visa processes, while Japan, Central Asia and Europe are gaining popularity among experiential travellers.
Weddings, MICE and luxury travel remain strong segments. Improved air connectivity and wider access to NDC-driven fares will further accelerate growth.
Kolkata, as a gateway to eastern India, is a fitting Convention destination. I expect meaningful discussions on airline distribution and commissions, GST and TCS compliance, and visa facilitation. Stronger engagement with government, airlines and tourism boards should deliver actionable outcomes. The Convention must also equip members, particularly smaller agencies, with technology and skills to compete effectively, while reinforcing TAAI’s collective voice and unity.
Rajendra Akolkar
Hon. Secretary, TAAI Vidarbha Chapter; Destinations Travel & Vacation Planners, Nagpur
India’s outbound tourism market is booming, fuelled by rising disposable incomes, improved air connectivity and simplified visa policies. Growth over the coming months will be driven by short-haul destinations across Southeast Asia and the Middle East, alongside Europe. Luxury experiential travel, family holidays, high-spending MICE groups and younger travellers seeking offbeat destinations and immersive cultural experiences will continue to generate strong demand.
However, rising airfares and hotel tariffs remain major challenges for the travel trade, affecting affordability and travel planning. As TAAI celebrates its 75th anniversary at the 69th Convention in Kolkata, I look forward to actionable insights on AI integration, sustainable tourism and changing consumer behaviour.
Ln. S.P. Rajendran
Chairman, TAAI South Tamil Nadu Chapter
Practically speaking, outbound tourism from India has declined considerably due to exceptionally high domestic and international airfares, reduced flight frequencies and operational viability challenges faced by airlines. However, I am hopeful that the upcoming holiday seasons will revive demand and encourage airlines to increase flight operations.
Travellers have already started enquiring about Christmas, New Year and summer vacations beginning April 2027. Within India, destinations such as the Northeastern states, Leh, Ladakh, Kashmir, the Golden Triangle, Rajasthan and Gujarat are attracting interest. Internationally, travellers are considering Southeast Asian countries, particularly Vietnam and Cambodia, along with China and Europe. The 69th TAAI Convention in Kolkata promises to be a memorable gathering as we celebrate 75 years of our association.
Sameer Baktoo
Chairman, TAAI J&K Chapter
It is a matter of immense pride and privilege to join the celebrations of 75 glorious years of TAAI, a remarkable journey built on vision, dedication, collaboration and an enduring commitment to India’s travel and tourism industry.
The 69th TAAI Convention, being held from October 25–27, 2026, at ITC Royal Bengal, Kolkata, is an opportunity to celebrate our collective achievements and acknowledge the people who have contributed towards making TAAI a strong and respected voice of the Indian travel trade.
As Chairman of the TAAI Jammu & Kashmir Chapter, I am delighted to be part of this landmark occasion. I look forward to connecting with members, colleagues, industry partners and friends from Jammu & Kashmir and across the country.
Aletta Dias
General Manager – India, BCD Travel
My heartiest congratulations to TAAI on the remarkable milestone of its 69th Convention & Exhibition, particularly as the association celebrates 75 glorious years of service to India’s travel and tourism industry. Over the decades, TAAI has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry, strengthening relationships among stakeholders and providing a collective platform for travel professionals across the country.
It is an honour to be part of this journey and celebrate such an important achievement alongside industry colleagues, partners and fellow travel professionals.
I look forward to engaging discussions, meaningful networking opportunities and the exchange of fresh ideas that can contribute to the continued growth and development of our industry.
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