MOU BETWEEN IATO AND MP TOURISM

Preamble

The increasing importance of Madhya Pradesh as a holiday destination and the exceptional work done by the Department of Tourism, Govt. of Madhya Pradesh in improving the image as well as the tourist infrastructure of the state has been noticed and appreciated all over the country. This has also been recently substantiated by the “National Tourism Award – Best Tourism Performing State” being conferred on the State.

The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) is an apex body of the tourism industry looking after the interest of tour operators in the country. This body is recognized by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India and various state governments. IATO for the last 25 years has taken up the cause of tourism and played a very important role in shaping the tourism policy of the country. IATO is of the firm opinion that Tourism and Human Resource Development can be a vital instrument for enhancing the employment and economy in the country.

In consideration of the above and to provide
a further fillip to the growth and development of tourism in Madhya Pradesh
both the parties have decided to join hands for the following objectives.

a) Both the parties appreciate the need of setting up a Tourism Training Institute at Bhopal. While this Institute shall be set up and operated by IATO, the Department of Tourism, GOMP will facilitate in providing suitable land for the Institute.

b) This Institute shall undertake/organize/facilitate studies, conferences, seminars, lecture and researches in matters relating to tourism management and development of human resource requirement by the tourism sector of the state.

c) IATO shall also work in close co-ordination with Madhya Pradesh Tourism to actively promote tourist destinations of Madhya Pradesh.

This Memorandum of Understanding is hereby signed on 24th May, 2008 between the Department of Tourism, Govt. of Madhya Pradesh, Bhopal and the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), registered under Society Registration Act 1860 and having its office at 404, Padma Tower – II, 22 Rajendra Place, New Delhi.