The 32nd Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) convention is going to be held in Chennai, Tamil Nadu from September 18-21, 2016, at The ITC Grand Chola. The theme for the convention is ‘Expectations and Reality: Bridging the Gap’. The association aims come together to identify and tap the potential of the tourism industry in India. Speaking to Express TravelWorld on this year’s theme, Pronab Sarkar, president, IATO, said, “The sessions are going to focus on leadership, branding, entrepreneurship, bilateral, management, manpower relations, communications and direct relations with wholesellers, airlines and overseas tour operators. There would be discussions on challenges from online travel service operators, rupee fluctuations, government’s new directives about electronic visa, authority and bottleneck areas for an early settlement, etc.”
Commenting on Chennai as the convention host, he informed, “It is our policy to have our conventions in new emerging states which have been pro-actively promoting tourism and received acceptance from the tourists. This year Tamil Nadu came forward with full support and offered services beyond our expectations. Tamil Nadu stands now as one of the most progressive states with so much to offer. The state’s products were the main reason driving our decision. It is the first time the state has shown full involvement in order to co-ordinate with the international tour operators who are keen on the state’s potential. Special post convention tours have been organised to showcase the new developments in the state.”
IATO conventions provide the best opportunity for IATO members to interact with trade partners, stakeholders, central and state senior officials on one-to-one basis. “Active interactions enable the members to understand the sessions in a manner that could benefit their business,” mentioned Sarkar.
He also expressed that IATO’s efforts will contribute in boosting tourism in Tamil Nadu. He stated, “We are confident that IATO will make its mark to enhance tourist arrivals after the members approach it with a new experience.”
