India will become the world’s economic superpower by the year 2047 under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Three revolutions are necessary to make the country an economic superpower. The first is the Green Revolution, the second is the Industrial Revolution and the third is the Tourism Revolution. IATO will play an important role in bringing a tourism revolution in the country and Madhya Pradesh.
Deputy Chief Minister Shukla was addressing the closing ceremony of the 39th session of IATO at Hotel Taj. Deputy Chief Minister Shukla said promoting tourist places is very important to attract tourists.
Madhya Pradesh is set to emerge as a top tourism destination in India, fueled by a new initiative from the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO). This ambitious vision was unveiled during the closing ceremony of IATO’s 39th annual convention, held at Hotel Taj. The event underscored the significant role IATO will play in transforming the state’s tourism landscape.
Deputy Chief Minister Shukla Advocates for Promotion
In his keynote address, Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla highlighted the essential role of promoting Madhya Pradesh’s tourist destinations to attract international visitors. “The promotion of our tourist spots is crucial for drawing in tourists,” Shukla emphasized. He expressed confidence that the convention would allow IATO members to gain an in-depth understanding of Madhya Pradesh’s tourism offerings. This, in turn, is expected to boost foreign tourist arrivals. Shukla encouraged IATO’s tour and travel operators to actively market Madhya Pradesh’s attractions to international travelers.
Minister Lodhi Envisions Madhya Pradesh as a Tourism Leader
Minister of State for Culture, Tourism, and Religious Trusts, Shri Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, praised the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, asserting that Madhya Pradesh will soon lead the country’s tourism sector. Lodhi detailed the state’s tourism assets and the government’s efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure. He also mentioned that post-convention, IATO members would experience Madhya Pradesh’s destinations firsthand through organized tours, gaining insights into the state’s natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural richness. Lodhi urged IATO members to increase tourist traffic to Madhya Pradesh.
IATO President’s Commitment and Recognition
IATO President Rajiv Mehra delivered the welcome address and committed to increasing tourist numbers in Madhya Pradesh. As a gesture of respect, Mehra presented a statue of Lord Krishna to Deputy Chief Minister Shukla and Minister Lodhi. Mahendra Pratap Singh, Chairman of the Madhya Pradesh Chapter of IATO, also extended his gratitude for the support.
Award for Best Promotional Publication
The convention recognized outstanding contributions to tourism promotion. Madhya Pradesh received the ‘Best Promotional Publication by State’ Award for its effective tourism marketing. The award was presented to Ms. Bidisha Mukherjee, Additional Managing Director of the Tourism Board.
Entertainment and Engagement
The closing ceremony featured a performance by renowned stand-up comedian Sugandha Mishra, who captivated the audience with her mimicry, songs, and dance. The event was attended by prominent figures, including Mr. Ilayaraja T, Managing Director of the State Tourism Development Corporation, Ms. Bidisha Mukherjee, Additional Managing Director of the Tourism Board, and Mr. Ravi Gosain, IATO Vice President.
Responsible Tourism Run
The third day of the convention began with the ‘Run for Responsible Tourism,’ a 5 km race aimed at promoting eco-friendly tourism. Flagged off by Mr. Ilayaraja T and Ms. Bidisha Mukherjee, the race saw participation from over 300 IATO members. The event highlighted Bhopal’s natural beauty and heritage, concluding at Gauhar Mahal via Imperial Segway.
FAM Tours to Showcase Madhya Pradesh
Following the convention, over 350 IATO members embarked on Familiarization (FAM) Tours to explore key destinations in Madhya Pradesh, including Indore, Ujjain, Bhopal, Rewa, Pachmarhi, Bhojpur, Bhimbetka, and Sanchi. These tours aim to familiarize participants with the state’s tourism features and facilities.
Call for Collaborative Efforts
The convention’s final session focused on ‘Synergy in Tourism and Hospitality Industry,’ where leaders from various tourism organizations, including Padmashri Ajeet Bajaj and TAAI President Jyoti Mayal, discussed the importance of collaboration and networking to advance the industry. The discussions underscored the need for joint efforts to enhance the tourism sector’s growth.
Overall, the event marked a significant step towards a tourism revolution in Madhya Pradesh, with IATO playing a crucial role in shaping the state’s tourism future.
