A high-level delegation from the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), led by President Mr. Ravi Gosain, met the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister and Tourism Minister of Odisha, Smt. Pravati Parida, to formally invite her to the 40th IATO Annual Convention. The prestigious event is scheduled to be held from 22nd to 25th August 2025 at Swosti Premium Spa & Resorts, Puri, Odisha.
The IATO delegation included Vice President Mr. Sanjay Razdan, Immediate Past President Mr. Rajiv Mehra, Eastern Region Chairman Mr. J.K. Mohanty, and Odisha Chapter Chairman Mr. Gagan Sarangi. During the meeting, Smt. Parida graciously accepted the invitation and assured the delegation of her full support, along with that of the Directorate of Tourism, Government of Odisha, and the Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC).
In a significant gesture, the Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister promised special arrangements for IATO delegates, including seamless entry to the iconic Lord Jagannath Temple and enhancements to the Puri Beachfront for the duration of the convention. She also agreed to host delegates at OTDC properties during post-convention tours aimed at promoting Odisha’s tourism offerings.
Following this meeting, the IATO team also called on Smt. Mansi Nimbhal, Director of Tourism, Government of Odisha, who extended her full support to ensure the successful execution of the convention.
The 40th IATO Annual Convention in Puri is set to be a landmark event, supported by the Odisha Tourism Department. The convention is expected to attract 1000–1200 participants, including senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, state tourism departments, travel trade professionals, industry leaders, and tourism media. Representatives from 15 to 18 states are anticipated to participate, making it a significant platform for tourism collaboration and promotion.
All major activities—including delegate registration, the inaugural function, business sessions, and evening cultural programs—will be hosted at Swosti Premium Beach Resort, Puri. Post-convention tours across various destinations in Odisha are also planned to showcase the state’s cultural and natural diversity.
