India Tourism looks ahead to 2015

On snowy Wednesday evening, 65 tour operators, media and honoured guests enjoyed drinks and a buffet at the Consulate General of India in Toronto, while hearing about a place where snow is never a problem.

“India is incredible,” said Anil Oraw, director, India Tourism Toronto. “And you should know us here at the Consulate. This should feel like a home. This office is for you.”

Oraw said that 2015 looks like a very promising year for India, as it has seen growth on many levels - politically, technologically, in business and in tourism. India is also seeking to simplify its Visa process even further, a process it has been consciously refining for some time.

“It’s not there yet but it will be very soon,” said Oraw in reference to the Visa process.

Oraw said when it comes to selling India as a holiday destination, many pictures come to mind - some not as favourable as others. “That is a mindset we have to change,” said Oraw.  Oraw stressed that India is a place that must be experienced to understand it fully - the food, the culture, the sights, the history and spirituality.

The event also welcomed Akhilesh Mishra, Consul General of India Toronto, who spoke about the relationship between Canada and India.

“I consider the tourism sector to be one of the most important and most significant elements for India,” said Mishra. Mishra echoed Oraw’s sentiment that India must be experienced to be understood: “You have to build relationships at a human level. You have to experience India to understand India.”

Mishra said that the relationship between Canada and India is a special one - “They are both examples of very diverse societies co-existing peacefully.” Mishra also pointed out both countries are leaders in cutting-edge technology, innovation, energy and higher education.

“We have to start with our shared values and build on our business relationship,” said Mishra.

Mishra also talked about India’s vast range of tourism offerings. “India has 22 different languages, more than three million sq. km of land and coastline.” Mishra said India offers a diverse range of experiences with a landscape featuring mountains, ocean, in-land experiences and a culture rich in friendly people, many cuisines and spiritual experiences.

Mishra said India is in a period of transformation unparalleled in any time in history, with India’s economy growing rapidly each year.

"The time for stepping up the engagement between our two countries is now,” said Mishra. “India is a great place to do business and a welcoming place for people.” Mishra stressed how becoming connected online is a priority for many villages in India, with many steps being executed to make this a reality and transform the way India does business.

“We have to start thinking about India now, which is why your role is so critical,” said Mishra.     

Getting to India has never been easier, with Air Canada announcing recently that it will begin nonstop service from Toronto to Delhi beginning in November 2015. The new route, the first to be dedicated for Air Canada's Boeing 787-9 series aircraft, will open new opportunities in the Indian subcontinent, currently the largest international market not served by Air Canada.

“This route will be good for both sides - those going to India and those going to Canada,” said Oraw. “Now our job is to sell it.”

For more information, visit www.incredibleindia.org.

Photo: Akhilesh Mishra, Consul General of India Toronto; Anil Oraw, director, India Tourism Toronto.