India is on track to emerge as the global capital for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), with world-class infrastructure now being developed across major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Jaipur, and even tier-2 locations. Speaking at the inauguration of a two-day seminar titled “India: The Land of Exponential Growth”, organized by the Indian Exhibition Industry Association (IEIA), Union Minister of Culture and Tourism Gajendra Singh Shekhawat emphasized that MICE tourism is the fastest-growing tourism segment in India. He called for stronger collaboration between the government and private sector to position India as a preferred destination for global MICE events, capitalizing on expanded connectivity through roads, airports, railways, and conference facilities.
Highlighting the country’s infrastructure boom post-2014, including over 1.5 lakh km of new roads, upgraded railway stations, high-speed trains, 150+ operational airports, and inland waterways, Shekhawat asserted that India’s G20 presidency has boosted international confidence in the country’s capabilities. “The world now looks at India with awe and curiosity, and the future of economic growth through MICE tourism is promising,” he said.
IEIA President Sooraj Dhawan added that the 14th edition of the IEIA Open Seminar is expected to attract over 700 top decision-makers from the exhibition and event industries, including international participants. He revealed that the Indian exhibition industry has grown by 40% post-COVID and now contributes ₹50,000 crore to the economy, while generating business worth ₹3 lakh crore. Dhawan urged the government to designate October 1 as National MICE Day to further recognize the sector’s contribution.
MICE tourism, often referred to as the event industry, is a key economic driver that generates income and employment in sectors like hospitality, transportation, food and beverage, and entertainment. Industry leaders such as Mr. Premjeet Lal (ED, ITPO), Mr. Rakesh Kumar (MD, India Expo Mart), Mr. Jagdish Patanakar (Hon. Secretary, IEIA), and Mr. Ravinder Sethi (Vice President, IEIA) also attended the event, reinforcing a shared vision to make India a leading force in the global exhibition and conference landscape.
