Closing her remarks, Krishnamurthi reminded the forum of the importance of sustainable tourism, which sometimes resulted in policies that seem not in line with tourism promotion but are necessary for sustainable tourism.

Nobel Pardamean, Deputy Director of Tourism Marketing for South and Central Asia at the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy of the Republic of Indonesia, spoke about the growing number of Indian tourists discovering the wonders of Indonesia. In 2024, 671,136 Indian tourists visited the country. While Bali remains the most popular destination, Pardamean encouraged tourists to explore lesser-known yet stunning locations such as Batam, Bintan, Yogyakarta, Bromo, Mandalika and Labuan Bajo. He also highlighted special segments tailored for the Indian market, including weddings, honeymoons, MICE, family trips, luxury travel, wellness, filming locations and events.

A video presentation followed, capturing the essence of Badung and showcasing its top attractions and activities. Attendees were also treated to a captivating performance of Indonesian cultural dance.
During the media meet, Pardamean and Ida Bagus Nama Rupa (Gusde), Director of Junglegold Bali, provided valuable insights into Indonesia’s tourism landscape. The event then concluded with a lucky draw, offering complimentary stays at prestigious properties across Indonesia for the fortunate winners.

EVA Air highlighted its strong travel routes between India and Taiwan, with codeshares and interline options through Singapore and Bangkok. Taiwan aims to broaden its reach and attract both leisure and business travellers from India prior to ITB Mumbai.

Noel Saxena, Taiwan Tourism’s India representative emphasised the growing potential of India’s MICE Market. Taiwan is planning more such events, including another roadshow in Mumbai and a leisure FAM trip to Taiwan for top Indian travel partners.

The primary goal of the roadshow was to strengthen tourism ties between India and Iran. The Iran Tourism Board engaged with Indian travel agents and tourism professionals to establish solid business connections and position Iran as a top travel destination. The roadshow also included collaborations with key organisations such as MTOA, TAAI, TAFI and IATO to boost Iran’s visibility among their members.

Hosseinabadi said, “We are thrilled to present the beauty and historical richness of Iran to the Indian market. This roadshow has provided a unique platform to share Iran’s cultural tapestry, including our historic landmarks and renowned hospitality. We look forward to deepening our partnerships with Indian travel agents and encouraging more Indian travellers to explore the wonders of Iran.”

One of the key highlights of the event was the participation of prominent stakeholders from Madhya Pradesh’s tourism industry, including travel agents, tour operators, and hoteliers. These industry professionals connected with their Hyderabad counterparts to forge partnerships aimed at promoting tourism between the two regions. This collaborative initiative is expected to strengthen Madhya Pradesh’s tourism appeal and encourage greater tourism exchanges.

“We are delighted with the outcome of the roadshow in Hyderabad. It reaffirms our belief in the importance of collaboration within the tourism industry. The partnerships forged during this event will undoubtedly enhance tourism prospects for Madhya Pradesh. The roadshow not only deepened the understanding of Madhya Pradesh’s tourism potential amongst the stakeholders but also established strong bonds between the two regions, encouraging travellers to explore the offerings of Madhya Pradesh. The stakeholders gained a competitive edge in the marketplace to deliver a more personalised travel experience in this workshop,” said IAS Bidhisha Mukherjee, Additional Managing Director, MPT.

Several prominent dignitaries from India Tourism (Ministry of Tourism, Government of India), senior officers from Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), and the heads of leading travel associations, were present to contribute to the evening’s significance.

Speaking about the successful roadshow, Myong Kil Yun said, “The India-Korea Friendship Night was a resounding success and a testament to the deepening ties between our two nations. Our collaboration with the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Chennai was pivotal in bringing this event to life, and we are thrilled to have celebrated the shared independence and cultural heritage of both India and Korea. The fusion of our culinary traditions, along with the cultural performances, created an unforgettable experience for all attendees. This event has laid a strong foundation for future collaborations, and we are excited to continue strengthening the bond between our countries.”

A music performance on friendship in Korean and Tamil started the event, followed by an Indo-Korean fashion show choreographed by Sejong Culture Academy from Korea and InKo Centre Chennai. To enlighten attendees about the diverse experiences Korea has to offer, KTO showcased an engaging presentation on the country’s vibrant culture. A lucky draw was conducted with special prizes awarded to the winners to further add to the excitement. Guests were also treated to a rich culinary experience featuring popular Korean traditional dishes, including the K-drama favourite, Gimbap.

Dosanjh did record-breaking shows that swept across North America, followed by upcoming performances slated in the UK, Europe, and India, and his entry into Abu Dhabi is said to yet another milestone in his illustrious career.
“I am beyond excited to bring the Dil-Luminati Tour to Abu Dhabi for the very first time. This is something I’ve been looking forward to, and I can’t wait to share the magic with my fans at Etihad Park. I’m ready for an unforgettable night of music and celebration because Punjabi UAE aa gaye oye!! I am incredibly humbled by the overwhelming love and support I’ve received from fans across the world. I promise to continue working hard to bring you the best music experience and create something truly special on stage. I encourage you all to bring your energy and enthusiasm because Abu Dhabi, we’re going to make this night extraordinary,” said Dosanjh for his upcoming show in UAE.

Siddharth Anand Kumar, Sr. Vice President – Films, Events & A&R, Saregama India Ltd. said, “We are beyond excited to bring Diljit Dosanjh’s Dil-Luminati Tour to Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, marking his debut performance in the city. Diljit is a global sensation and his ability to connect with audiences is incredible. At Saregama, we are committed to delivering world-class entertainment experiences, and this concert, just like the ones we’ve produced across North America, Australia and India is set to be a milestone event. We look forward to creating an immersive and spectacular experience for fans, in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral.”

Sonali, Founder – Ripple Effect Studios & Business Manager – Diljit Dosanjh said, “Working with Diljit on the Dil-Luminati Tour has been an extraordinary experience. His passion for his craft and his dedication to his fans are truly inspiring. Bringing this tour to Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, for the first time ever, is a momentous occasion, and we are excited to see how the energy of the UAE will resonate with Diljit’s electrifying performances. We’re committed to making this show an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.”

Hong Kong has hosted the Lions International Convention twice, in 1992 and 2005. This massive win marks the triumphant return of one of the largest conventions. The event will underline Hong Kong’s fine ability to host large-scale international events, further consolidating its position as a leading MICE destination,

“Hong Kong is ready to roar with excitement as we support the Lions Clubs International District 303 to host the 2026 Lions International Convention,” said PANG Yiu-kai, GBS, JP, the Chairman of the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), which is one of the supporting organisations of the event. “This event aligns with our mission to grow the MICE sector and bring the world’s most prestigious events to our vibrant city, and drive social and economic benefits for Hong Kong. We can’t wait to welcome the members of the Clubs to our city once again with much new attractions and excitements developed in the past and coming years.”

Lions Clubs International is an organisation of the world’s largest service clubs, comprising over 1.4 million members in more than 48,000 clubs across 200 countries and geographical areas who provide social and humanitarian services to benefit their communities.

“We’re thrilled to host 2026 Lions International Convention in Hong Kong. The city’s diverse culture and dynamic energy will fuel ‘Lionism’ by providing a robust platform for members from around the world to come together and interact with each other as they enjoy making a difference in their communities,” said Sammy Shum, District Governor, Lions Clubs International District 303.

Visitors to the convention will experience a range of activities that display the diversified charms of the city. Hong Kong’s infectious energy and warm hospitality will leave a lasting impression on all the Lions Clubs International members in attendance.

Apart from networking, there will be two informative knowledge sessions. This will help travel agents formulate the best experiences and optimal service provisions so that they lead in their markets.

Madhya Pradesh is, without doubt, a treasure house of Tourism Experiences and an “Offbeat Multispecialty Destination of First Choice.” The accelerated change in the tourism scenario took the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board to commit to the organisation of comprehensive workshops. The extensive workshops showcased the state’s tourism products to bring greater synergy between principal industry stakeholders.

Madhya Pradesh is not only the greenest state in India but also fulfils the status of the ‘Tiger State of India’ with a population of 785 tigers and holds the status of ‘Cheetah State of India.’ It has acquired the reputation of being the cleanest and safest state for tourists visiting India. Astonishingly, Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in India to witness an unprecedented rise in the arrival of tourists in the year 2023 with 112.1 million tourists as compared to 34.1 million tourists in 2022.

An important highlight of the roadshow was Madhya Pradesh’s dynamic scenario in the tourism sector. The state is a perfect blend of historical, cultural, and natural beauty and an emerging spiritual tourism hub. This is evident from the huge numbers flocking to sites like Mahakal Lok in Ujjain and Raja Ram Temple in Orchha, which will soon be developed into the Raja Ram Lok. Besides, the tallest statue of Adi Shankaracharya in India, towering at 108 feet, is attracting tourists from far and wide.

Minister for Tourism, Culture, Religious Trusts, and Endowments Department Shri. Dharmendra Lodhi spoke about the immense importance of road shows in promoting the grandeur of Madhya Pradesh’s tourism on the national level. With this, the Managing Director of the MP Tourism Board and Principal Secretary in the Department of Tourism and Culture, Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, highlighted his satisfaction with the event’s turnout and emphasised the point that this event would help give a new dimension to understand the tourism potential of Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat while further strengthening the bond between the two regions.

Madhya Pradesh is soon coming up with a jungle safari, which is set to begin on 1st October 2024. The state is poised to be a leading tourist destination in India, offering unique and enriching experiences based on breathtaking landscapes, giants of history, and vibrant cultural sites.

14 UNESCO Heritage Sites of the State

Madhya Pradesh is currently home to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites- Khajuraho temple complex, Bhimbetka Caves, and Sanchi Stupa. The state continues to strive for more such recognitions with formal entries like Gwalior Fort, Khooni Bhandara of Burhanpur, Rock Art Sites of the Chambal Valley, the Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple at Bhojpur, the Gond monuments of Ramnagar in Mandla, the historic ensemble of Dhamnar, Group of Monuments at Mandu, the historic ensemble of Orchha, Bhedaghat-Lametaghat in Narmada Valley, Satpura Tiger Reserve, and Chanderi: Iconic Saree Weaving Clusters of India.

The evening was also comprised of a lavish dinner, scintillating performance by Bollywood singer Amit Gupta, and great networking time. This left participants with a lot of unforgettable memories and precious chances for networking with peers from the same industry.

“We are thrilled to honour the remarkable agents who have been pivotal to our success this year. Their dedication, hard work, and innovation have significantly contributed to our growth. This award show is our way of expressing our gratitude and celebrating their achievements,” said Heniel Rupaarelia, Managing Director of ETRAV Tech Ltd.