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NEWS ROUND UP
TRAVELBIZ MONITOR OCTOBER, 2024 11
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With members-first approach, Sunil Kumar

to lead TAAI for two-year term

Prasenjit Chakraborty | Mumbai Sameer Karnani, Rajan Sehgal,
Manav Soni, Gopal Unadkat and
t the Travel Agents Amish Desai.
AAssociation of India (TAAI) The elections for the national
national elections held in Mumbai office-bearers and Managing
at ITC Maratha, Sunil Kumar has Committee was held after
been elected as President for concluding the 73rd AGM of the
the 2024-26 term, with Lokesh oldest and largest association of
Bettaiah joining him as Vice the travel agent fraternity in India.
President. Speaking exclusively to
Kumar secured 306 votes to TravelBiz Monitor, Sunil Kumar,
win the elections. the newly elected President,
Shreeram Patel is now the stated that his priority will be a
Honorary Secretary, and Paras “member-first” approach. “All
Lakhia has been named as our programmes will focus on
Honorary Treasurer. members, and we will begin
The other two contenders for identifying challenges that we five years, I will strive to continue that the growth of the tourism
the President’s post were former can overcome together,” he said. the goodwill that was established industry is directly proportional
President, Jyoti Mayal (177 votes) “I have a very good team, and we earlier. The members believe to the growth of individual travel
and Harmandeep Singh Anand will work collaboratively.” that I can bring the changes they companies. “I assure you that we,
(286 votes). Kumar expressed his gratitude anticipate.” as a team, will be visible in the
The newly-elected Managing to members from across the When discussing the biggest industry through our actions,” he
Committee members are P Lalith country for their confidence in challenge in the industry, Kumar added.
Kumar Jain, Hema RV Chander, him. “Though I am returning after emphasised the need to ensure prasenjit.chakraborty@saffronsynergies.in

CONTD from PG 01 Illinois Office of Tourism appoints Sartha
Iran Tourism debuts in India... Global Marketing as India Representative

“Prospective travellers should inquire about Iran’s safety,
hospitality, and overall appeal from those who have already been TBM Staff | Mumbai
there. Our country is safe, and Iranians are known for their warm
welcome to visitors,” he added. he Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO),
Hosseinabadi urged people not to be misled by those trying TOffice of Tourism announced it is opening a new office in New Delhi, India
to present a distorted image of Iran. “Certain media outlets are to attract more overseas visitors to Illinois.
deliberately broadcasting misleading information,” he remarked.” The official travel authority for the state of Illinois in the USA announced
Meanwhile the event also witnessed signing an MoU between the appointment of Sartha Global Marketing LLP as its partner in India for
the Iranian Tour Operator Association (ITOA) and Maharashtra marketing and promotional activities.
Tour Organisers Association (MTOA). The MoU was signed by Sartha will develop and implement
Mostafa Shafiee Shakib, Chairman, ITOA and Vishvajeet Raja comprehensive travel trade and public
Patil, President, MTOA. relations programs to inspire Indian
Later, Patil mentioned that ITOA aims to start a dialogue with travellers to explore the state and its
local travel agents in India. “They want MTOA to play a key role unique experiences including luxury,
in connecting with travel agents from Mumbai, Maharashtra. culinary, architecture, outdoor experiences and cultural attractions.
ITOA is looking to establish a regular exchange of ideas to Daniel Thomas, Deputy Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce
explore ways to boost outbound tourism from India to Iran and and Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism, said, “India is now the largest
vice versa,” Patil explained. overseas source market for Illinois, with a tremendous 55% increase in visitors
He mentioned that Iran has introduced a paperless visa entry from 2019 to 2023. We are excited to partner with Sartha Global Marketing to
system for Indian tourists, eliminating passport stamping. “This welcome Indian travellers to experience Illinois’ world-class cities, natural
is a significant move by the Iranian government,” Patil noted. landscapes, and cultural diversity. From vibrant Chicago to charming small
Acknowledging that there are concerns among Indians towns along the Mississippi River and stunning state parks, we offer something
regarding safety in Iran due to the current political situation. for every traveller. Whether it’s culinary, arts, history, or nature, we invite you to
However, it’s a matter of time; when tourists start visiting, it will discover the heart of the U.S.”
be as usual. Sheema Vohra, Managing Director, Sartha Global Marketing LLP, added,
Shakib stated that this is just the beginning of understanding “We are excited to commence work on promoting Illinois in India, a state
and recognising each other’s needs. “I am very happy and that has something for every Indian traveler. With Chicago as an excellent
sincerely believe that tourists from both India and Iran will travel gateway, Illinois offers dynamic cities, breathtaking outdoor adventures,
to each other’s countries, opening up new vistas on the tourism diverse attractions, and a rich historical legacy. We are honored to be working
front,” he said.” with the Illinois Office of Tourism to promote this wonderful state, a must-visit
prasenjit.chakraborty@saffronsynergies.in destination.”
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