Madrid, Spain, January 31, 2024: The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, has actively participated in FITUR, a prominent global travel exhibition held in Madrid, Spain, from January 24th to 28th, 2024. The event saw a substantial delegation from the Union Government, various State Governments, and private travel stakeholders, signaling a concerted effort to revitalize tourism and reach pre-pandemic levels.
HE Shri Dinesh K. Pattanaik, Ambassador of India to Spain, inaugurated the ‘Incredible India’ pavilion at FITUR on January 24th. The event was attended by Ms. Anmol Gagan Mann, Minister of Tourism, Government of Punjab, alongside officials from the Ministry of Tourism and State Governments.
India’s participation in FITUR is a strategic move to increase inbound tourism from key source markets worldwide. With an expansive space of around 315 square meters, the Indian pavilion is one of the largest at FITUR in recent years. Over 40 co-exhibitors, including State Governments such as Punjab, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, and Karnataka, joined the delegation.
FITUR, attracting over 150,000 visitors annually, serves as a premier international event for the tourism sector. The Incredible India Pavilion aims to showcase diverse tourism products and destinations, emphasizing cultural, wellness, and culinary heritage. India is positioned as a significant MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), wedding, and wellness destination in the region.
The India pavilion featured traditional music, dance performances, and Yoga sessions, providing visitors with a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the country. Mehendi application sessions also captured the attention of attendees.
Spain holds significance as a key source market for India, with foreign tourist arrivals from Spain approaching pre-pandemic levels. The participation at FITUR aimed to strengthen ties with Spain and enhance India’s visibility as a preferred global travel destination.
The Ministry of Tourism’s robust presence at FITUR underscores India’s commitment to revitalizing its tourism sector and reconnecting with the world in the post-pandemic era. The exhibition serves as a vital platform for India to engage with international travel agencies, tour operators, and other stakeholders, fostering collaboration and promoting the diverse tourism offerings of ‘Incredible India.’
Spain is an important source market for India. The foreign tourist arrivals from Spain to India are almost touching the pre-pandemic levels.
