Chennai: In an effort that may signify government and private sector participation in promoting tourism in the state in a big way, the Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation (TTDC) has planned to explore the opportunities to take the “Enchanting Tamil Nadu” forward through the IATO (Indian Association of Tour Operators).
A delegation of IATO representatives led by its president Pronab Sarkar called on tourism minister Vellamandi N. Natarajan at the Secretariat here recently and sought the department’s participation in the travel and tourism fairs regularly organised by IATO in various parts of the country. This national body of the tourism industry has over 1,500 members covering all segments of the tourism industry and has close connections with other tourism associations in the US, Nepal and Indonesia, where USTOA, NATO and ASITA are its member bodies.
The team which also included IATO’s secretary Lally Mathews and TN chapter chairman K. Pandian; also discussed the scope for enhancing inbound and outbound tours.
Tourism commissioner and MD of TTDC H. S. Meena and other tourism officials were also present during the discussions. The IATO has been taking numerous proactive measures and has been playing a lead role in encouraging responsible tourism. As it knows the pulse of travel, the organisation frequently issues travel advisories too.
