KOLKATA: The Jammu and Kashmir tourism department participated in the 35th Annual Convention of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) at Kolkata from September 12 to September 15, 2019. Over 1,000 delegates from across the country turned up for the convention to seek the promotion of the travel and tourism industry.
Chairman of the Convention Pronab Sarkar led the industry leaders along with senior officials from various tourism boards of different states who spoke on the occasion stressed on interacting more frequently to face the challenges of tourism jointly. Tourism officers also sought input from the participants for the steps to be taken for the promotion of the country’s tourism.
Director Tourism Jammu Deepika Kumari, Deputy Secretary Tourism Waseem Raja, Assistant Director Leh Tsering Angmo represented J&K Tourism. IATO representatives from Srinagar and Jammu also participated in the convention to promote J&K tourism. During his detailed presentation, Wasim Raja stressed on the scope of adventure tourism in J&K besides highlighting off beat destinations and the hospitality of the people of the people of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.
He also highlighted that J&K was the only state in the country which has zero crime against tourists and is safest destination for female tourists. The delegates were mesmerized by the presentation which also featured visuals showcasing breathtaking beauty of the State besides its amazing art and craft and distinct cultures.
“Leading travel agents from within and outside the country are participating in the convention to promote their products. Hundreds of the visitors interacted with us and showed keen interest to visit J&K,” he said.
During the convention, the officers from the State promised the visitors that the tourism scenario of the State will improve and the tourist flow will substantially increase in coming months. During the 3-days of convention, the department distributed publicity material among the visitors and promoted all the regions of the State.