A 30-member delegation from the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), led by its President, Ravi Gosain, held a productive meeting with the Honorable Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, in Srinagar on June 17, 2025. The Chief Minister extended his gratitude to the delegation for their initiative and provided strong assurances regarding the safety and security of tourists within the region. He urged the delegates to disseminate the message that Kashmir is a safe travel destination among their professional networks.
“Rubaroo Jammu & Kashmir” Campaign Concludes with Positive Assessment
The meeting was part of IATO’s “Rubaroo Jammu & Kashmir” campaign, a three-day initiative (June 14-17) during which members explored various areas of Pahalgam and Srinagar. The delegation reported finding the valley peaceful and its residents welcoming.
“It was crucial to assess the ground situation, and during our three-day stay, we found the state to be as safe as any other location,” stated Ravi Gosain. “Furthermore, we have received assurances from the highest levels of government, which instills great confidence in all of us. I am confident that tourist flow to the state will return to normal in the coming period.”
Restoring Confidence After Recent Cancellations
Gosain acknowledged that IATO members had experienced numerous cancellations from both domestic and international tourists following an incident in Pahalgam. “Clearly, sentiment was impacted, but it is vital to restore confidence and revive tourism,” he added. “This visit is a step in that direction, and we are completely satisfied with the safety arrangements implemented by the government.”
Invitation to IATO’s 40th Annual Convention
The IATO delegation also took the opportunity to invite the Chief Minister to the 40th IATO Annual Convention, scheduled to take place in Puri, Odisha, in August 2025. This convention is expected to gather 1000-1200 delegates from across India, offering the Chief Minister a significant platform for engagement. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, in principle, accepted IATO’s invitation and assured them that the Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Department would participate with a robust delegation. The IATO Convention is set to be held in Puri, Odisha, from August 22nd to 25th, 2025.
IATO, established in 1982, serves as the national apex body for India’s tourism industry.
