Delhi, 5 May (H.S.): The Ministry of Tourism of India, alongside the Rajasthan Government and FICCI, organized the Meet in India Conclave on May 4, 2025, in Jaipur, coinciding with the 14th Great Indian Travel Bazaar (GITB). Union Minister of Tourism & Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, highlighted India’s burgeoning Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry as a key economic driver poised to create high-quality jobs. He emphasized that India is emerging as a global MICE powerhouse, leveraging economic growth, superior infrastructure, and government support. With iconic venues like Bharat Mandapam and Jio World Centre, the aim is to elevate at least 10 Indian cities into leading global MICE destinations.
Over 300 delegates attended, including international and domestic MICE operators, conference organizers, foreign tour operators, state secretaries, media, and various stakeholders in tourism. The Indian MICE market generated USD 49,402.6 million in 2024, and projections indicate a rise to USD 103,686.5 million by 2030, reflecting a robust 13% CAGR. This growth is supported by the development of MICE-ready locations in cities like Varanasi and Kochi, alongside significant infrastructure advancements such as 150,000 km of new roads and an extensive hotel network. NITI Aayog Vice Chairperson Shri Suman Bery stressed the importance of capitalizing on the G20 presidency vision to position India as a global hub for events and experiences, urging states to build on the momentum.
Rajasthan is emerging as a significant MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination, as highlighted by Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari. She emphasized that Rajasthan, beyond its heritage appeal, is evolving into a vibrant, future-ready hub equipped with modern convention centres, excellent connectivity, advanced digital infrastructure, and world-class hospitality. She assured that the state’s commitment to MICE is a strategic priority aimed at fostering growth, innovation, and enhancing global visibility, promising an unforgettable experience for visitors.
In her address, Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, showcased Odisha’s readiness to host various global events, coupled with its rich cultural heritage and robust infrastructure. Mr. Suman Billa, Additional Secretary & Director General of Tourism, stressed the necessity of a unified national strategy to position India among the top five MICE markets by 2025, highlighting the importance of city-level convention promotion bureaus and skill development.
Dr. Jyotsna Suri, FICCI’s Past President, echoed the sentiment of India’s readiness to transition from a leisure to a leading MICE destination, showcasing the country’s capabilities during the G20 events. The event concluded with discussions focused on growth strategies and marketing India as a MICE hub, alongside B2B sessions for networking.
The 14th edition of the Great Indian Travel Bazaar (GITB) is set to take place from May 5–6 at the Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC) following this conclave.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
