The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan, and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), hosted the Meet in India Conclave on May 4, 2025, in Jaipur, Rajasthan. Held alongside the 14th Great Indian Travel Bazaar (GITB), this event marked a significant step toward positioning India as a global leader in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry.
India’s MICE Industry: A Global Powerhouse
Union Minister of Tourism & Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, addressed the conclave, emphasizing the transformative potential of India’s MICE sector. He stated, “India’s MICE industry is rapidly emerging as a global powerhouse, fuelled by robust economic growth, world-class infrastructure, and strong government backing.” With iconic venues like Bharat Mandapam, Yashobhoomi, and Jio World Centre, India aims to elevate at least 10 cities into the world’s top MICE destinations. Guided by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership, states like Rajasthan are leading the charge through innovation and legacy.
Economic Impact and Growth Projections
The Indian MICE market is on a remarkable growth trajectory, generating USD 49,402.6 million in 2024 and projected to reach USD 103,686.5 million by 2030, with a 13% CAGR. This growth is driven by new MICE-ready destinations like Varanasi, Khajuraho, and Kochi, alongside significant infrastructure developments, including over 150,000 km of roads, 150 operational airports, and 2.48 million hotel rooms. India’s successful hosting of the G20 further showcased its robust venue network and regional tourism potential.
Rajasthan: A Future-Ready MICE Hub
Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Ms. Diya Kumari, highlighted Rajasthan’s role as an emerging MICE destination, stating, “Rajasthan is not just a heritage destination—it is a vibrant, future-ready hub for MICE tourism.” With state-of-the-art convention centres, seamless connectivity, and world-class hospitality, Rajasthan is poised to offer unforgettable experiences that blend tradition with modernity.
Odisha’s Contribution to MICE Tourism
Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha, Smt. Pravati Parida, showcased Odisha’s potential, saying, “India is ready to welcome the world, and Odisha stands proudly among the leading states.” From the spiritual serenity of Puri to the architectural marvel of Konark, Odisha offers a rich cultural tapestry and robust infrastructure for MICE events.
Strategic Vision for Global Leadership
Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairperson, NITI Aayog, emphasized the momentum from India’s G20 presidency, urging states to capitalize on opportunities in events and experiences. Mr. Suman Billa, Additional Secretary & Director General of Tourism, outlined a unified national strategy, including city-level convention bureaus, skill development academies, and a seamless digital portal, to propel India into the top five MICE markets by 2025.
Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Past President of FICCI, added, “India is no longer just a leisure destination. With exceptional infrastructure and proven capabilities, we are ready to host large-scale global conventions. Through platforms like GITB and Meet in India, we invite the world to say, ‘Let’s meet in India.’”
Event Highlights and Future Outlook
The conclave attracted over 300 delegates, including international and domestic MICE operators, professional conference organizers, foreign tour operators, and hospitality stakeholders. The event featured a keynote by Dr. Senthil Gopinath, CEO of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), and three key sessions:
- Catalyzing Growth: How Tourism Policies are Attracting MICE Opportunities
- Unlocking India’s MICE Tourism Potential: Elevating Convention Centres
- Strategizing for Success: Crafting Policies & Marketing India as a Global MICE Hub
B2B sessions facilitated connections between buyers and sellers, fostering collaboration. The conclave sets the stage for the 14th GITB, scheduled for May 5–6, 2025, at the Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC).
Conclusion
The Meet in India Conclave 2025 underscores India’s ambition to become a global MICE leader. With strategic investments, world-class infrastructure, and a rich cultural heritage, India is ready to welcome the world.
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