This year, IATO is celebrating its 40th Annual Convention in Puri, Odisha, recognising the state as the perfect stage to showcase India’s cultural heritage and emerging tourism potential. With its focus on digitalization, sustainability, and inclusivity, President – Ravi Gosain, IATO – is not only proud of the association’s journey but also inspired to lead an engaging edition featuring impactful business sessions, a vibrant travel mart, and post-convention tours unveiling Odisha’s hidden gems.
1. Why Odisha chosen as the host destination for IATO’s 40th Annual Convention? What makes it the ideal venue for this landmark event?
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Odisha is a lead state with respect to their policy in the development of Infrastructure. Connectivity to Puri has been bolstered, International connectivity to Bhubaneswar has been spruced up, Star category Hotel accommodation at Puri have reached a remarkable high with all recognised brands making their presence felt, surface transport is geared up – all make it ideal for inbound tourists.
2. What is your vision for IATO?
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My vision for IATO is to transform it into a dynamic, future-ready organization that champions sustainable and inclusive growth of inbound tourism. By embracing innovation, strengthening partnerships with government and global stakeholders, and empowering our members—especially the youth—IATO will play a pivotal role in positioning India as a leading, year-round destination on the world tourism map.
3. What are some recent policy-level successes that IATO has contributed to?
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Over the past 40 years, IATO has emerged as the voice of India’s inbound tourism industry. Key milestones include our successful advocacy for the introduction and expansion of the e-Tourist Visa, GST relief for tour operators, and infrastructure development through consistent dialogue with government bodies.
IATO requested Air India, IndiGo, FHRAI and HAI that there should not be any cancellation charges for cancellation of groups/FITs atleast till 31st July 2025 and full refund of the advance payments should be made to the tour operators through whom the bookings have been received. IATO’s request has been favourably considered by IndiGo and IndiGo has agreed that Currently, All groups booked on or before 8 May, 2025 are eligible for a change or cancellation fee waiver. This waiver applies to travel to and from all affected destinations until 22 May, 2025.
On IATO’request to the policy maker the French Embassy lifted their temporary travel advisory which temporarily cautioned against travelling to Rajasthan, Punjab, Himachal, Ladakh and Gujarat.
Mr. Rajiv Mehra Immediate Past President met Chairman CAQM along with Mr. Ravi Gosain President IATO regarding operation of AITP coaches and tempo travelers during GRAP III and IV. Although IATO had requested that IT should be permitted to ply AITP coaches and Tempo Travellers having at least BS IV registration till 31st December 2026. They have agreed to extend the same till 1st November 2026. By then all vehicles should be changed to BS -6/EV/CNG, with this approximately 18 months period IATO members will be able to change their vehicles.
On the request of IATO to Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India Govt of Germany has updated the advisory and have removed Rajasthan and Punjab.
4. Could you share insights into how states like Odissa are using technological innovation at heritage sites?
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Odisha is harnessing technology to bring its heritage sites to life. The Shree Jagannatha Dham mobile app guides Puri temple visitors with queue updates, rituals, darshan timings and navigation .At Bhubaneswar, the State Tribal Museum and Odisha State Museum feature immersive 360° virtual tours and multilingual AR-enabled exhibits
5. Could you elaborate on how marketing, budget allocation, and infrastructure development are boosting India’s image as a tourist destination?
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With respect to Inbound there is hardly any Marketing and Promotion. The Budget crunch has jeopardized the marketing and promotional efforts and though working out the digital mode of representation, our nodal ministry has been handicapped on account of this to address the physical form of promotion comprise participation in International Travel Marts and Road Shows across the world. Infrastructure development at tourist destination are undertaken by the States and Ministry of Tourism are also funding Projects for the states
6. What are the biggest challenges currently facing the tourism sector in India? How is IATO addressing these key challenges?
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India struggles with poor infrastructure and last mile connectivity, safety concerns (particularly for women), environmental degradation and overtourism, skill shortages in hospitality, cumbersome visa and regulatory processes, and weak global branding
IATO’s response: It has engaged directly with the Tourism Minister to advocate for simplified visas, budget for international marketing, formation of an India Tourism Board, enhanced air connectivity, and infrastructure support via PPPs—especially targeting inbound tourism recovery iat
7. Are there any new initiatives being introduced at the 40th convention to support IATO members?
At the 40th IATO Annual Convention (22–25 August 2025 in Puri, Odisha), several new initiatives support members: The initiatives lie in the new content at the strategic format that has evolved over the years The Convention aims to market destinations of India through its members across India.
IATO convention will witness a congregation of around 1200 stakeholders over 3 days comprise Tour Operators inbound .domestic. adventure .MICE, cruise,airlines,surface transport companies, media and around 17 state governments besides the host state Odisha and ministry of tourism Government of India.
The 40th IATO Annual Convention in Puri will provide delegates with extensive networking opportunities through state government booths, interactive luncheons, and cultural dinners spread across three days. The convention will feature a comprehensive format that includes the inaugural and valedictory sessions, high-powered business discussions, engaging state presentations, and the IATO Travel Mart & Exhibition with around 50 booths. Adding further value will be the prestigious awards ceremony, the IATO Run for Responsible Tourism, and curated post-convention tours designed to highlight Odisha’s diverse destinations and hidden gems. A press conference chaired by the host state will formally set the tone for the event. To ensure a seamless experience for delegates, the Government of Odisha is extending special support, including streamlined temple access at the Jagannath Temple, enhanced beach facilities, and complete hosting assistance, making Puri a truly fitting destination for this landmark convention.
