The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) took a significant step towards successfully organising its 40th Annual Convention, scheduled for August 2025 in Puri, Odisha. On December 17, 2024, a high-level delegation from IATO met with key officials of the Odisha government to garner support for this monumental event. This meeting underscores the importance of collaboration between industry leaders and state authorities to boost tourism in India.
High-Profile Meeting with Deputy Chief Minister and Director of Tourism
The IATO delegation, comprising President Mr. Rajiv Mehra, Vice President Mr. Ravi Gosain, Honorary Secretary Mr. Sanjay Razdan, Eastern Region Chairman Mr. J.K. Mohanty, and Odisha Chapter Chairman Mr. Gagan Sarangi, engaged in fruitful discussions with Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister Mrs. Pravati Parida, who also holds the charge of Tourism Minister, and Mr. Samarth Verma, IAS – Director of Tourism, Government of Odisha.
Odisha’s Commitment to Supporting Tourism
The Deputy Chief Minister expressed her enthusiasm about hosting the convention in Puri, a city revered as the home of Lord Jagannath and a key spiritual and cultural destination in India. She assured the delegation of the Odisha government’s unwavering support, emphasizing the state’s commitment to positioning Odisha as a top destination for domestic and international tourists.
Exploring the Role of IATO in Promoting Tourism
IATO’s Vision for Inbound Tourism
During the discussions, the delegation highlighted IATO’s pivotal role in promoting inbound tourism across India. The annual convention is not merely a networking event but a strategic platform to showcase India’s tourism potential, foster partnerships, and drive growth in the sector. The 40th IATO Annual Convention in Puri is expected to boost Odisha’s visibility as a tourist hotspot significantly.
Post-Convention Tourism Growth
The IATO delegation stressed how the convention could act as a catalyst for tourism development in Odisha. With increased focus on marketing, infrastructure, and collaboration with stakeholders, the state could witness a surge in visitor numbers, creating a lasting economic impact.
Preparations for the 40th IATO Annual Convention
Inspection of Accommodation Facilities in Puri
As part of their visit, the IATO delegation conducted a thorough inspection of various hotels in Puri to assess their suitability for accommodating convention delegates. The growing hospitality landscape in Puri, marked by the emergence of several new hotels, provides ample options to host the large influx of attendees expected during the event. These properties will also have the opportunity to showcase their offerings to industry leaders and stakeholders.
Interactive Meeting with Odisha Chapter Members
The IATO delegation held an interactive session with members of the Odisha chapter at Hotel Swosti Premium, Bhubaneswar. The meeting fostered enthusiasm among local members, who pledged their full support for the successful execution of the convention. The collective excitement and cooperation signal the immense potential for a landmark event in August 2025.
Why Puri is the Perfect Host for IATO 2025
Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Puri, one of the Char Dhams in India, is renowned for its spiritual aura, cultural heritage, and architectural marvels. The city’s iconic Jagannath Temple, serene beaches, and vibrant festivals make it an ideal destination to showcase India’s rich traditions.
Strategic Location
Located along the Bay of Bengal, Puri offers excellent connectivity and is a gateway to Odisha’s many attractions, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Konark and the Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon.
Infrastructure Readiness
With a steady increase in tourism-focused investments, Puri has witnessed significant improvements in its infrastructure, including better roads, upgraded accommodations, and enhanced facilities for tourists. This makes it a fitting choice for hosting a convention of such magnitude.
IATO 2025: A Milestone for Odisha Tourism
The 40th IATO Annual Convention in Puri is poised to be a landmark event for Odisha, reinforcing its status as a top-tier destination. By collaborating with the Odisha government and local stakeholders, IATO aims to create a robust platform for showcasing the state’s tourism assets to a global audience.
As preparations gather momentum, the event is expected to attract leading travel professionals, tourism operators, and policymakers, ensuring a lasting impact on Odisha’s tourism economy.
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