Arushi Bajaj
Gearing up for the IATO elections, campaigning for which is in full swing, Mr. Rajesh Mudgill, the Hony. Secretary, IATO, who is once again contesting for the post of Hony. Secretary said, “Leaving a tough 2020 behind along with the set of challenges it gave, it is now time for the trade to look up in hope towards the offerings of 2021. Though the business might not bounce back even for the next 6-8 months but the revival is still on the cards and tourism would get back on rails like never before. In the meantime, we have to prepare ourselves accordingly.”
Keeping in mind the dignified conduct and decorum, Mr. Lally Matthews for President, said, “We are going to make sure that we do not involve in any sort of character assassination. The whole idea is to create a healthy environment and ensuring just and fair electoral proceedings. The pandemic, for sure made our lives miserable but Ministry of Tourism has done a phenomenal job by introducing one of a kind campaign such as ‘Dekho Apna Desh’ and like my team members, I too feel that the revival of the industry is what our focus should be for the future.”
Commenting on the occasion, Mr. E.M. Najeeb, Senior Vice President, IATO, who is also once again contesting for the same post said, “It is time to ensure that participants come forward in huge numbers and to share their suggestions / feedback that in turn would make the entire election process transparent. My main motive is to ensure that no one in tourism goes out of job. Tourism has to work closely in partnership with the government for the overall growth of the sector. The focus is on creating IATO’s brand image like that of Incredible India campaign.”
Elaborating on the ‘change’, Mr. Lally Matthews mentions, “My priority at the moment is small and medium operators who have an immense potential to turn the industry around. As far as the growth is concerned, I believe, new leaders come with new ideas. We also have plans in place for skill development programs that will take the scenario to next level.” When questioned on the major changes he would bring to the association he said, “Waiving of annual fees and subsidizing convention cost for the year 2021 shall be enforced and even if inbound business does not gain momentum will consider waiver even for 2022. We will also try through MoT for soft loans for members at low interest rates. And last but not the least, we guarantee the amendment of constitution to make it more inclusive and transparent by the end of 2021.”
“IATO – Team for change would work tirelessly for its members in full capacity as a lot needs to be done for the betterment of the association. IATO needs to alter its traditional approach of functioning by looking for international collaborations and tie-ups with outbound associations. The need of the hour is to increase the membership base by building good synergy.” Mr. Rajesh Mudgill concluded.
Manifesto
1. Waiver of Annual fees for 2020-21 and if inbound business does not gain momentum will consider waiver even for 2021-22.
2. We will try through MOT for soft loans for members at low interest rates.
3. Inclusive participation of regional chapters with amendment in constitution.
4. Cap of Rs. 5000 on Hotel charges for convention.
5. Increased financial support for local chapters.
6. Educational trips to new and upcoming destinations with local chapters.
7. Guaranteed amendment of constitution to make it more inclusive and transparent by end 2021.
8. More powers to be divested to sub-committees.
9. Complete Transparency at IATO office.
10. Women representation in EC.
11. Ensure Chapter Chairman participation in EC meetings.
12. IATO monthly luncheons to be converted into knowledge sessions about new products/hotels with representation by experts.
13. Educational seminars including language skill development in collaboration with reputed language schools.
14. Time bound roadmap to generate enquiries for members through IATO website.
15. To deliberate on how IATO can form a “Cooperative” for the benefit of members.
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