Jaipur, April 26: The 15th edition of the Great Indian Travel Bazaar (GITB) is set to strengthen Rajasthan’s position as a global tourism hub while promoting investment, employment, and international partnerships. The event continues to serve as a powerful platform for collaboration and growth in the tourism sector.
Addressing the inaugural session held at Hotel Jai Mahal Palace, Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari said that GITB is not just a tourism event but a gateway to global opportunities and partnerships. She emphasized that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, tourism has emerged as a key driver of economic growth, employment generation, and cultural confidence.
Focus on Investment, Infrastructure, and Sustainability
Diya Kumari highlighted that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Rajasthan is positioning tourism as a “growth engine,” with a strong focus on transparent governance, private investment, and sustainability.
She noted that destinations such as Udaipur’s lakes, the Thar Desert, the forts of Jaipur and Chittorgarh, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, wildlife destinations, and over 660 heritage havelis are being preserved and promoted to enhance experiential tourism.
Efforts are also underway to improve connectivity and infrastructure, along with expanding MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), film tourism, and spiritual tourism to make Rajasthan a year-round destination.
Rajasthan Emerging as an Investment-Friendly Tourism Hub
Chief Secretary V. Srinivas stated that Rajasthan is no longer defined solely by its heritage but is now emerging as a preferred investment destination due to investor-friendly policies, simplified processes, timely decision-making, and robust infrastructure.
India’s Tourism Growth Story Gains Momentum
Suman Billa, Additional Secretary and Director General, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, highlighted that India aims to increase tourism’s contribution to GDP from 5.2% to 10% over the next decade.
He noted significant infrastructure growth, including an increase in airports from 75 in 2014 to around 150 today, and a surge in domestic tourist visits from 1.5 billion to 4 billion between 2014 and 2025. International tourist arrivals have also doubled, rising from 10 million to 20 million.
He stressed the need to expand hotel capacity, develop world-class destinations, and attract high-value international tourists. GITB, he said, plays a vital role in connecting smaller stakeholders with global partners.
Platform for 10,000+ B2B Meetings
FICCI Secretary General Anant Swarup informed that the 15th edition of GITB is witnessing participation from over 185 foreign tour operators from more than 50 countries. The exhibition also features the Ministry of Tourism, Rajasthan Tourism (host state), various state tourism boards, hotels, resorts, and Destination Management Companies (DMCs) from across India.
Over the next two days, more than 10,000 pre-scheduled B2B meetings will take place, reinforcing GITB’s position as a premier inbound tourism marketplace since its inception in 2008.
Exhibition to Open on April 27 at JECC
The GITB exhibition will be inaugurated on April 27 at 11:00 AM at the Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC), Sitapura, by Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari.
The event is jointly organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), with support from RATO, IHHA, and HRAR.
‘Ekam – The Spirit of Oneness’ Enthralls Audience
A grand cultural performance themed “Ekam – The Spirit of Oneness” captivated the audience during the inaugural ceremony of GITB.
The presentation beautifully showcased India’s unity in diversity, blending classical dance forms like Kathak and Manipuri with vibrant folk traditions such as Ghoomar, Chari, Dhol Cholom, and Chhau.
The performance culminated in a powerful visual portrayal of Lord Krishna as the eternal guide, symbolizing harmony and unity across diverse paths. The show added cultural grandeur and emotional depth to the opening ceremony.