Anjali Pokhriyal
The inaugural session was graced by distinguished guests, including Mr. Ruhul Amin, Assistant High Commissioner of Bangladesh in Guwahati, Mr. P. P. Khanna, President of the Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI), Dr. Saumen Bharatiya, Patron-in-Chief of Byatikram Group, Dr. Rajan Parekh, Secretary of the Medical Tourism Association of India (MTOA), and Mr. Mukul Medhi, President of the Tour Operators Association of Assam (TOAA), among other notable industry figures.
Key Highlights of the Inaugural Session
Mr. Pradip Kumar Karar, CEO and Chairperson of Fairview Media Pvt. Ltd. (FMPL), delivered the welcome address, expressing his enthusiasm for the event: “UTC Connect will elevate global tourism connectivity, foster new relationships, and unlock transformative business opportunities both in India and abroad.”
Mr. Ruhul Amin underscored the conclave’s significance, stating, “The Universal Travel Conclave presents a significant opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties and promote cultural exchange through tourism between Bangladesh and North East India.”
Dr. Saumen Bharatiya highlighted the event’s broader impact: “I am delighted to witness such an impactful initiative that not only showcases the potential of North East India but also fosters sustainable tourism practices essential for our region’s development.”
A Platform for Insightful Discussions
UTC featured an impressive lineup of keynote speakers and panel discussions that explored pivotal topics such as MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) in global business travel, wellness and medical tourism, and the latest trends in inbound and outbound tourism in India. These discussions provided industry professionals with invaluable insights and a platform to address current challenges while exploring new collaborative ventures.
The event was further bolstered by the support of esteemed governmental tourism boards, international stakeholders, and industry influencers from South East Asia. Together, they contributed to fostering global partnerships and driving business opportunities through a dynamic program of roadshows, audio-visual presentations, conferences, and networking sessions.
Looking Ahead
Abhishek Chaudhuri, Director & COO, and Kaustuv Das, Executive Director of The Universal Travel Conclave, announced that UTC will continue its journey across India and Southeast Asia, with upcoming events scheduled in Delhi, Hyderabad, Dehradun, and Bangkok through 2025. This ambitious schedule reflects UTC’s commitment to expanding international tourism partnerships and exploring new opportunities for growth.
As UTC concluded in Guwahati, it left an indelible mark on the region’s tourism landscape, reinforcing the importance of the North East as a key destination for both domestic and international travelers. The conclave not only showcased the immense potential of the region but also laid the groundwork for future collaborations that promise long-term benefits for the local economy and the broader tourism industry.
As UTC embarks on its next phase, it remains poised to elevate the tourism sector, foster global connections, and continue its mission of creating transformative opportunities for stakeholders across the industry.
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