Category Archives: Associations

In a novel initiative aimed at making Assam’s vibrant tourism industry more inclusive, the Tour Operators Association of Assam (TOAA) and Shishu Sarothi, a leading non-profit organization working for the empowerment of persons with disabilities, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote accessible tourism in Assam. The MoU was signed in the presence of Shri Jayanta Malla Baruah, Hon’ble Minister, Tourism and Shri Rituparna Baruah, Chairman, Assam Tourism Development Corporation Ltd. (ATDCL) on the occasion of the World Tourism Day celebrations of the Govt. of Assam on 27th September with a marathon “Run for heritage” in Sivasagar. This collaboration reflects the commitment of both organizations to create an environment where everyone, including persons with disabilities, can enjoy the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and diverse experiences that Assam has to offer. Under the MoU, TOAA and Shishu Sarothi will work closely together to develop and implement strategies that enhance accessibility and inclusivity in the tourism sector. Key components of this partnership include sensitization and awareness trainings for tourism professionals to raise awareness about the needs and preferences of travelers with disabilities, ensuring a welcoming and accommodating environment; promotion and providing support for the development of accessible infrastructure and amenities at various tourist destinations across Assam; promotion of employment opportunities of persons with disabilities in the tourism sector; and undertaking collaborative activities to highlight Assam as an inclusive and accessible tourist destination, attracting a wider range of visitors. Debajit Borah, President of TOAA expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We believe that Accessible tourism is an integral part of the broader themes of tourism and green investment due to its alignment with inclusivity, sustainability, economic benefits, environmental considerations, legal compliance, positive …

Ravi Gosain, Vice President, IATO said, “We are actively working to select a venue for next year’s convention. We are in discussions with Goa and Madhya Pradesh, and we are optimistic about a favourable outcome from Madhya Pradesh.”

The market for India’s outbound tourism is on upward trajectory and shows an impressive rise. Gajesh Girdhar, Chairman, NIMA, mentioned, “The market is set to reach $15 bn in 2023, with anticipated 11.4% CAGR by 2032. The growth is driven by Indians especially millennial”.   

Peter Semone, Chairman, PATA, has said that PTM 2023 has attracted over 1000 delegates from 46 global destinations, which includes 159 sellers from 92 organisations and 15 destinations, along with 196 buyers from 191 organisations and 38 source markets.

Speaking at the PATA Travel Mart in New Delhi, Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO, PATA, said, “India is a very important source market for the tourism industry, not only because it has a huge population base, but more importantly, because of the recent announcement by PM Modi of the ‘Travel for Life’ concept of sustainability and caring for the earth which resonates well with entire global industry.

On the occasion of World Tourism Day (WTD), the UNWTO revealed this week its global campaign, ‘Tourism Opens Minds’, in a universal pledge to address the challenges facing the tourism sector.  This global initiative presents an opportunity to rediscover the way people travel and encourages tourists to venture into a wider range of destinations, to open their minds and hearts to places they haven’t previously imagined visiting. A YouGov survey released earlier this week showed that while 66% of travellers prefer familiar destinations over exploring new horizons, 83% report that the experience of traveling to new places, broadened their perspective and enabled them to develop a better understanding of other cultures.

After a hiatus of three years, the physical edition of the PATA Travel Mart commences today in New Delhi at International Exhibition-cum-Convention Centre, Pragati Maidan. The Mart is scheduled to take place from 4-6 October, bringing together tourism professionals from across the world.   

According to CAPA’s latest report, international departures from India is expected to reach 45 mn by 2030 as compared to 20 mn in 2019, making India one of the most attractive and fastest growing outbound market.

Inaugurating the 38th IATO Convention in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar (CSN), Sandipanrao Bhumre, Minister- EGS & Horticulture, Maharashtra and Guardian Minister – CSN, said that the event would put focus on tier-II cities for big events and would also attract more tourists.

At the 67th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of FHRAI, Pradeep Shetty has been elected as the President of FHRAI for 2023-2024. He will be assuming charge from 1st January 2024. 23 new EC members were also elected at the 67th AGM.