The Chhattisgarh Government launched the 'Chendru State Rural Tourism Award' to give the state’s rural culture, tribal traditions, natural beauty and distinctive ways of life a greater identity on the national and international tourism map. The initiative aims to promote rural tourism and highlight the state’s cultural and natural heritage. Officials hope to boost rural economies by showcasing handicrafts, food, dance and landscapes across the state and to attract visitors, media attention and investment. The scheme will use a selection process with criteria linked to community participation and environmental stewardship.
Impact: boost rural economies and tourism investment.
Process: selection based on community participation and sustainability.
14th International Tourism Mart to be held in Tawang
The 14th edition of the International Tourism Mart (ITM) will be held in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, from 29 to 31 October 2026. The event is organized by the Union Tourism Ministry in collaboration with the Arunachal Pradesh government. Delegates from around 20 countries are expected to participate, providing a platform to promote tourism in the northeastern region and showcase its cultural and natural attractions. The ITM aims to promote travel and investment, support local communities and strengthen connectivity to the Northeast. The programme includes B2B meetings, cultural performances and industry workshops highlighting adventure tourism and eco‑tourism.
Dates: 29–31 October 2026.
Location: Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh.
Participants: about 20 countries.
Purpose: promote tourism in the Northeast.
Activities: B2B meetings, cultural programs, workshops.
Oct 05, 2026
Odisha launches India’s first MICE Incentive Portal
Odisha has launched India's first MICE Incentive Portal, a digital platform to simplify support for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions. Deputy Chief Minister and Tourism Minister Pravati Parida unveiled the portal during the Odisha Travel Bazaar 2026. The MICE portal aims to promote Odisha as a destination for corporate conventions and other large events while streamlining applications for financial incentives by event organisers and tourism operators. The platform integrates with the state's tourism networks, offering faster approvals and greater transparency. It is part of Odisha's broader effort to strengthen business tourism and attract private-sector investment.
Odisha launches India’s first MICE Incentive Portal.
MICE stands for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions.
Unveiled at Odisha Travel Bazaar 2026 by Deputy CM Pravati Parida.
Portal aims to promote Odisha for corporate events.
Aims for faster approvals and streamlined incentives.
Sep 28, 2026
World Tourism Day 2026 highlights AI and digital tools
World Tourism Day was celebrated on 27 September 2026, emphasizing tourism’s social, cultural, economic and environmental importance. The theme for 2026 is 'Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,' highlighting the growing role of digital technologies and AI in the sector. Governments, industry bodies and communities organised webinars, exhibitions and campaigns to promote sustainable travel, inclusive growth and better connectivity. The observance underscored the need for responsible practices, accessible information and innovative digital solutions to enhance visitor experiences while protecting cultural heritage and natural resources.
World Tourism Day was observed on 27 September 2026.
Theme: Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism.
Focus on sustainable travel, inclusive growth and digital solutions in tourism.
Sep 27, 2026
Mizoram hosts first Pluck & Pay festival to promote rural tourism
Mizoram launched its first Pluck & Pay festival in Khawzawl district, held from 23 to 25 September 2026 in the villages of Tualte and Chawngtlai. The three-day event, organized by the state Tourism Department and the Khawzawl Deputy Commissioner’s office, allows visitors to harvest farm produce and pay farmers directly. The festival features agriculture, horticulture, local cuisine, handicrafts, Mizo music and dance, and traditional games. It supports farmers, homestays, guides and local businesses, and aims to promote rural tourism and strengthen community livelihoods by connecting visitors with producers and local services.
Dates: 23–25 September 2026.
Locations: Tualte and Chawngtlai, Khawzawl district.
Activities: farming, local cuisine, handicrafts, culture.
Impact: supports farmers and rural livelihoods.
Sep 23, 2026
WION Iconic Tourism Summit and Awards 2026 held in New Delhi
The WION Iconic Tourism Summit and Iconic Awards 2026 were held in New Delhi, gathering leaders from India's tourism, travel, and hospitality sectors. The event focused on recognizing achievements in the sector and discussing opportunities for growth in the travel economy. Ministers, ambassadors, aviation experts, hospitality leaders, and technology innovators participated in plenary sessions and panel discussions. Participants explored strategies to attract more international visitors, improve air connectivity, and use digital tools to enhance customer experiences. The summit highlighted resilience in India's tourism industry, the role of public‑private partnerships, and sustainable practices for long-term growth across destinations.
Event held in New Delhi; tourism, travel, and hospitality leaders attended.
Aimed to recognize achievements and discuss growth opportunities.
Participants included ministers, ambassadors, and industry experts.
Discussions covered connectivity, technology, and customer experience.
Emphasis on public-private partnerships and sustainability.