Kochi-based cruise tour operator, Lotus DMC, has won the National Tourism Award for the Best Tour Operator in the ‘Niche Segment’ (cruise tourism), by the Ministry of Tourism. The guest of honour, Sumitra Mahajan, Lok Sabha speaker, gave away the award in the presence of Dr Mahesh Sharma, minister of state for culture and tourism and other officials. The award was received by Sanjeev Kumar, managing director and Deepu C S, director, Lotus DMC.
Lotus DMC was adjudicated the winner from among various contestants in the niche segment of tourism, which consists of cruise, golf, medical, wellness and eco-tourism in India. Lotus DMC, a tourism outfit started in 2011 with its head office at Kochi, is the only tour operator based out of Kerala, which has direct contracts with international cruise companies.
Kumar, MD, after receiving the award, said, “We are humbled by the recognition received in a short span of five years of existence. This could not have been possible without the trust reposed by our principals, support given by various stake holders, trade partners and associates and above all the dedication and untiring efforts of ‘Team Lotus’”. He further stated that Lotus is conscious of the added responsibility that goes with this honour and reiterated its resolve to continue to be a leading and responsible player in the industry with special emphasis on responsible tourism and is also well poised to take full advantage of the changing tourism environment arising out of the policy initiatives and priority given to tourism by the government.
