Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Aug 26: Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department participated in the 40th Annual Convention of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) which took place in Puri, Odisha, from August 22 to 25, 2025.
The convention’s theme was “Rejuvenate Inbound @2030,” focusing on revitalizing India’s inbound tourism industry by 2030. The objective was to provide a platform for industry professionals, Government stakeholders, and tourism boards to discuss current challenges, opportunities, and strategies for growth.
The inaugural event was presided over by the Minister of Tourism and Culture, Govt of India, Gajender Singh Shekhawat. Pravati Parida, Deputy Chief Minister Odisha was the guest of honour on the occasion. Over 1,000 delegates, including Government officials, industry leaders and media representatives, attended the convention.
The key events and activities included an Indian Tourism Fair (Travel Mart) held on August 23-24, that allowed IATO members to interact with State Tourism Departments and industry stakeholders to promote tourism. Business Sessions and Expert-led discussions on current industry challenges, sustainable tourism, immersive travel, and emerging opportunities like cruise tourism and film tourism.
Aijaz Qaiser, Joint Director Tourism Jammu; Virender Manyal, Chief Executive Officer Patnitop Development Authority and Liaqat Mahmood, Accounts Officer, Directorate of Tourism Kashmir represented the UT of J&K in the annual conclave.
Addressing a distinguished gathering of travel professionals, industry stakeholders, and other dignitaries, Joint Director Tourism Jammu described IATO convention as a vital platform to explore avenues for promotion of the tourism sector in J&K.
In his power point presentation, the Joint Director highlighted Jammu & Kashmir’s transformation into a year-round, all-segment tourist destination, with significant strides made in infrastructure, accessibility, and investor-friendly policies. He invited travelers from all parts of country to discover the timeless charm, natural beauty and evolving experiences of Jammu & Kashmir beyond the traditional sites of J&K.
While Promoting off-beat locations such as Gurez, Bangus, Bhaderwah, Patnitop-Sanasar, Doodhpathri and Basohli, he emphasized on the significant growth and unique experiences for travelers in all these locations.
On the sidelines of three day convention, IATO in collaboration with Govt of Odiha organized a Run for Responsible Tourism on August 24 to promote responsible tourism practices. Aijaz Qaiser, Joint Director Tourism Jammu finished first in Men category by completing the 5 kms walk for responsible tourism.
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