Odisha government backs 40th IATO Annual Convention to boost tourism and showcase cultural heritage
Delegates from the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), led by President Mr. Ravi Gosain, recently met with Smt. Pravati Parida, the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Tourism of Odisha, to extend an invitation for the upcoming 40th IATO Annual Convention. Scheduled for 22nd to 25th August 2025 at the Swosti Premium Spa & Resorts in Puri, this significant event is expected to gather around 900 to 1,200 participants from various sectors of the tourism industry.
During the meeting, the Deputy Chief Minister offered her full support along with assurances from the Directorate of Tourism and the Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC). Notable arrangements have been promised for IATO delegates, including seamless entry to the revered Lord Jagannath Temple and planned enhancements for Puri Beach. Such efforts underline the state's commitment to not only hosting the convention but also showcasing its cultural and scenic attractions.
The convention will serve multiple purposes, not only facilitating business sessions and networking opportunities but also hosting the Indian Tourism Fair, an essential platform for promoting tourism in India. Expected attendees include senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism, various state governments, tourism professionals, and media representatives, all of whom play a pivotal role in shaping the future of travel in India.
Post-convention tours have been tailored to highlight Odisha’s diverse offerings, providing a unique firsthand experience of the state's potential. According to industry insights, the inclusion of state-level attractions in these tours aims to promote Odisha as a prime destination for both domestic and international travellers. This initiative reflects a broader strategy to enhance the state’s visibility and attractiveness within the tourism sector.
Puri, a city renowned for its cultural heritage and religious significance, offers a fitting backdrop for this pivotal convention. With its well-known attractions and rich traditions, it stands poised to attract not just delegates from across India but also international stakeholders keen on exploring investment and collaboration opportunities within the Indian tourism landscape.
The preparations for the event reflect a concerted effort by both the IATO and the Odisha government, emphasising cooperative engagement in promoting tourism. During discussions, Mr. Gosain highlighted the convention's potential to bolster inbound tourism and stimulate economic growth in Odisha post-event. Additionally, the state’s readiness to collaborate with multiple accommodations, including notable partners like Taj Puri Resort & Spa and Mayfair Heritage, ensures that delegates will be well-supported throughout their stay.
As the convention date approaches, the involvement of various stakeholders remains crucial. Feedback from previous conventions indicates that these events are instrumental in setting agendas and enhancing industry dialogues on challenges and opportunities within tourism. With the Odisha government’s enthusiastic backing, the 40th IATO Annual Convention promises to become a hallmark event that not only strengthens ties within the tourism community but also elevates Odisha’s profile on the national and international stage.
In summary, the commitment by Odisha's government, alongside IATO's proactive engagement, illustrates a united front in further developing India's tourism sector. The collaborative atmosphere surrounding this annual convention is expected to yield significant benefits for the industry, paving the way for enhanced exposure, partnership opportunities, and a renewed focus on promoting the rich cultural fabric of Odisha.