TBM Staff - Mumbai The Government of Gujarat is now keen to position the state as a preferred choice of destination for MICE Travel & Adventure Tourism, having hosted the recent Convention of the India Conventions and Promotions Bureau (ICPB), and currently being home to the ATOAI (Adventure Tour Operators Association of India) Convention at Ekta Nagar.
Addressing the delegates after the inauguration of the Convention, Hareet Shukla, IAS, Secretary Tourism, Government of Gujarat said, “Till now, Gujarat has been popular choice for Family Travel & Religious Tourism. However, with these two large-scale Conventions being hosted in Gujarat, we are confident to position the state as the No. 1 destination in India for MICE & Adventure Travel in the next 2-3 years.”
He cited the example of Gujarat hosting the 10th edition of Vibrant Gujarat Investors Summit next month, and the past couple of months seeing IPL and ICC Cricket World Cup matches being hosted in the state. “For the first time, Gujarat will host the Filmfare Awards, in 2024. This is a clear indication of our intent to showcase Gujarat and its infrastructure suitable for hosting varied events.”
He went on to say, “Gujarat has a very progressive and vibrant Tourism Policy, and as part of this, 5 destinations are currently under development in the state, with additional funds being allocated in the recent State Budget. Alongside, across the state, various tourism projects are under various phases of development, to offer a varied experience of the state to all kinds of travellers. For example: the Statue of Unity is a complete destination, a planned city, with options to spend between 3-7 days to explore the destination and surrounds. We are now developing various options for soft and hard adventure activities, and are happy to host the ATOAI Convention in the state.”
