India’s Ministry of Tourism showcased India’s many offerings and promoted sustainable tourism at World Tourism Market (WTM) 2023 in London.
THE Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, along with a consortium of stakeholders, including tour operators and state tourism departments, actively participated in the prestigious WTM 2023, held in London from 6th to 8th November 2023. The ‘Incredible India Pavilion’ covers an extensive area of 650 square meters and presented a wide range of tourism products and immersive experiences to visitors, in line with the theme of ‘Incredible India! Visit India Year 2023’.
The formal inauguration of the Indian Pavilion was conducted by Ms. V. Vidyavathi, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and H.E. Vikram Doraiswami, High Commissioner of India to the UK. The ceremony was graced by the presence of Shri Rohan Khaunte, Minister of Tourism, Government of Goa. The opening was marked by ribbon-cutting, ceremonial lamp lighting, a Ganesh Vandana, and welcoming remarks by the Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, and the High Commissioner of India to the UK.
Post-inauguration, the Indian delegation and participants explored the Indian Pavilion and engaged with booths representing various participating states and stakeholders. A range of cultural performances, henna application, and yoga sessions were organized by Incredible India throughout the day. Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, took part in the UNWTO –WTTC Tourism Ministers Summit, focusing on ‘Transforming Tourism through Youth and Education’, held at the Elevate Stage. The Secretary also met with influential tour operators, media representatives, and key stakeholders within the UK market.
Incredible India Pavillion Members & Exhibitors
At WTM 2023, the Incredible India Pavilion boasts 47 participants, including tour operating companies, DMCs (Destination Management Companies), and State Tourism Departments from various regions such as Delhi, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Bihar, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Odisha, Assam, and the Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). Additionally, State Tourism Departments from Kerala, Karnataka, Ladakh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat have established their individual pavilions to highlight their offerings and establish connections with potential clients and partners.
The Ministry of Tourism views WTM 2023, London, as an invaluable platform for bringing together professionals from diverse sectors of the travel and tourism industry. This forum will facilitate networking, business opportunities, and the exchange of ideas and information. The event is expected to draw a wide array of attendees, including travel agencies, tour operators, airlines, hoteliers, cruise lines, travel technology providers, tourism boards, and other professionals within the travel and hospitality sector.
In addition to showcasing a diverse array of tourism products and transformative experiences for travelers, with a focus on ‘Incredible India! Visit India Year 2023’, the Ministry of Tourism is placing emphasis on promoting sustainable tourism. The ‘Travel for LiFE’ program, launched on 27th September 2023 on the occasion of World Tourism Day, aligns with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment). This global mass movement encourages individuals and communities to take action for the protection of the environment against the impacts of climate change.
