Addressing the 39th IATO Annual Convention at Bhopal, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Rajendra Shukla, highlighted India’s path to becoming an economic superpower by 2047 under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership.
He emphasized the need for three key revolutions: the Green Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, and the Tourism Revolution. Shri Shukla also noted the important role IATO will play in driving the tourism revolution in both India and Madhya Pradesh.
Deputy Chief Minister Shri Rajendra Shukla Outlines Vision for India’s Economic Superpower Status by 2047
Shri Rajendra Shukla emphasized the importance of promoting tourist destinations to attract visitors. He noted that through this convention, IATO members would gain a deeper understanding of Madhya Pradesh‘s tourism offerings and share this knowledge with potential travellers. This effort, he said, will lead to a significant increase in foreign tourists visiting the state. Shri Shukla encouraged IATO tour and travel operators to actively promote Madhya Pradesh’s tourist spots to international visitors and inspire them to explore the region.
Madhya Pradesh Set to Become a Leading Tourism Destination, Says Minister Shri Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi
Minister of State for Culture, Tourism, and Religious Trusts, Shri Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, expressed confidence that under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, Madhya Pradesh will become a top destination for tourism in India. He highlighted the crucial role IATO will play in increasing tourist numbers in the state. Shri Lodhi shared details of Madhya Pradesh’s tourism offerings and the government’s efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure. He mentioned that after the convention, IATO members would experience the state’s natural beauty, historical heritage, and rich culture firsthand through post-convention tours. Shri Lodhi encouraged IATO members to actively promote Madhya Pradesh and attract more tourists to the state.
IATO President Shri Rajiv Mehra delivered the welcome address, assuring that IATO members will work towards bringing more tourists to Madhya Pradesh. As a gesture of respect, Shri Mehra presented statues of Lord Shri Krishna to Deputy Chief Minister Shri Shukla and Minister of State Shri Lodhi. Shri Mahendra Pratap Singh, Chairman of IATO’s Madhya Pradesh Chapter, expressed his gratitude to the attendees.
Associations Must Collaborate
During the first session on the third day, the topic “Synergy in Tourism and Hospitality Industry” was discussed. Leaders from key private sector tourism and hospitality organizations emphasized the importance of collaboration and networking by identifying common areas for joint efforts. Speakers included Padmashri Ajeet Bajaj, Vice Chairman of FAITH, Amaresh Tiwari, IATO President Rajiv Mehra, and TAAI President Jyoti Mayal, who all shared their perspectives on the need for unified efforts within the industry.
A total of 350 IATO members will explore Madhya Pradesh through FAM tours, designed to showcase the state’s natural beauty, rich history, culture, and diverse wildlife to global tourists. These members will visit key destinations such as Indore, Ujjain, Bhopal, Rewa, Pachmarhi, Bhojpur, Bhimbetka, and Sanchi to learn about the attractions and tourism facilities available. The tours are part of 10 scheduled FAM tours aimed at promoting Madhya Pradesh as a prime tourist destination.
Madhya Pradesh Receives ‘Best Promotional Publication by State’ Award
IATO recognized states and organizations for their exceptional contributions to tourism, awarding Madhya Pradesh the prestigious ‘Best Promotional Publication by State’ Award. The award was accepted by Ms Bidisha Mukherjee, Additional Managing Director of the Tourism Board.
500 Members Participate in Responsible Tourism Run
The third day of the convention kicked off with the ‘Run for Responsible Tourism,’ a 5 km race that began at VIP Road. The event was flagged off by Mr Ilayaraja T, Managing Director of the Tourism Development Corporation, and Ms Bidisha Mukherjee, Additional Managing Director of the Tourism Board. Over 500 IATO members from across India participated, promoting the message of eco-friendly tourism. The race concluded at Gauhar Mahal, passing through Imperial Segway, allowing participants to appreciate Bhopal’s natural beauty and heritage along the way.
Entertainment at the Closing Ceremony
The closing ceremony featured a lively performance by renowned stand-up comedian Sugandha Mishra, who entertained the audience with her mimicry, songs, and dance. The event was attended by notable figures, including Mr Ilayaraja T, Managing Director of the State Tourism Development Corporation, Ms Bidisha Mukherjee, and IATO Vice President Mr Ravi Gosain.
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