The Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) marked its 75th anniversary alongside its 69th Convention and Exhibition – Indian Travel Congress 2026 in Kolkata from 25–27 October. The three-day event brought together more than 750 delegates, guests, and exhibitors for business, knowledge sessions, industry recognition, and destination experiences.
Organised in less than five weeks, the convention featured a two-day knowledge programme, the India Travel and Tourism Expo, commemorative awards, and three evenings of celebrations. TAAI described the gathering as its largest-ever B2B platform at a convention, with exhibitors reporting strong footfall and business engagement.
The event opened on 25 October with a ceremony featuring musical performances by Sajda Boys and dance performances by Bengal Beauty. The following evening marked the association’s 75-year milestone, with delegates cutting 75 cakes at the Sundarban Lawns at ITC Sonar. The Calcutta Choir performed during the celebrations, which continued with a midnight after-party.
The Farewell Gala on 27 October brought the convention to a close with performances by rock band Anarkyst, Bengal Beauty, BAD Salsa, and a DJ.
Knowledge sessions focus on AI and industry change
The two-day knowledge programme addressed emerging trends, business opportunities, changing industry dynamics, and the growing role of artificial intelligence in travel and tourism. It included individual presentations, panel discussions, and virtual presentations from speakers in Israel, South Africa, and the US.
The sessions aimed to give travel professionals perspectives on technology, evolving business models, and opportunities across the sector. Thought Leader Awards were presented to speakers in recognition of their contributions.
B2B expo creates business platform
The TAAI B2B – India Travel and Tourism Expo was a key component of the convention, bringing together travel professionals, tourism stakeholders, and industry partners. The platform was designed to facilitate business meetings, strengthen existing relationships, and develop new partnerships across domestic and international markets.
According to TAAI, exhibitors expressed satisfaction with the footfall and business connections generated during the expo. The association positioned the exhibition as a platform for collaboration and engagement between travel trade stakeholders.
Awards recognise industry contributions
The 75-year celebrations included several awards recognising individuals, member companies, and partners who have contributed to TAAI and the wider travel industry.
The Global Visionary Leadership Award was presented to Zubin Karkaria, Founder and CEO, VFS Global. A Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Subhash Goyal, Managing Director, STIC Travels.
Through its Pillars of Progress programme, TAAI recognised airline, hospitality, and media partners for their support over the association’s history. The TAAI Legacy Awards acknowledged members associated with the organisation for 20 years or more, including companies with more than 50 years of membership.
The Pride of TAAI Awards recognised member companies for their achievements and contributions. The initiative also highlighted the importance of encouraging younger professionals, particularly those below 40, to take on greater leadership responsibilities within the association.
Government and tourism stakeholders participate
The convention brought together government representatives, State Tourism Boards, and international tourism authorities.
Shankar Ghosh, Minister for Tourism, Government of West Bengal, received the TAAI Award of Excellence for his contribution to tourism. Kandula Durgesh, Minister for Tourism, was presented with the TAAI Award for Excellence in Tourism Leadership.
Bhuvanesh Kumar, IAS, Secretary, Tourism, Government of India, delivered the keynote address and received a TAAI award recognising his contribution to the travel and tourism industry.
TAAI also recognised six states for their tourism promotion efforts. Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, and West Bengal received the Most Outstanding States for Tourism Promotion awards.
International participation included Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, Singapore Tourism Board, Tourism Malaysia, Israel Tourism, and destination management companies representing other countries.
Delegate tours showcase eastern destinations
Tours across West Bengal and the Northeast formed part of the convention programme, giving delegates an opportunity to experience the region’s landscapes, cultural attractions, and tourism potential. The visits were intended to familiarise travel professionals with destinations that could be developed into itineraries and tourism products for domestic and international markets.
TAAI credited its Eastern Region, led by Chairperson Anjani Dhanuka and Managing Committee member Manav Soni, for supporting local coordination, transfers, and engagement with the West Bengal Government.
The association also acknowledged the contribution of sponsors, participating governments, tourism authorities, industry partners, and media organisations to the event.
The convention concluded with TAAI recognising the efforts of its 2024–2026 managing committee and regional teams in delivering the three-day programme. The association said the event marked its 75-year legacy while setting a new benchmark for future conventions.
Rahul Bhadana is a digital editor at TravTalk with experience spanning multiple content niches, with a strong focus on travel trade journalism and digital publishing. A graduate of Delhi University, his work covers editorial writing, content strategy and platform-led storytelling, supporting TravTalk’s digital growth and industry engagement. A technology enthusiast, he enjoys films, poetry and exploring new ideas across media and culture.