Union Minister for Culture and Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat Highlights ITDC as a Multi-Dimensional Growth Engine

The Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, inaugurated a series of multi-dimensional, high-impact initiatives at the Convention Centre of The Ashok, New Delhi, marking the joint celebration of 60 years of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) and 70 years of The Ashok Hotel.

Digital & Metaverse Strategy:
ITDC is reimagining itself for the digital age, aligning with Viksit Bharat @2047. Initiatives include Gen AI, immersive experiences, and smart digital infrastructure.

Commemorations:
- 60 years of ITDC (Shashthipoorti).
- 70 years of The Ashok Hotel, marked by a commemorative “My Stamp” release and heritage souvenirs.

Youth & Careers:
Launch of “A Day at the Hotel” comic book with Amar Chitra Katha to inspire students from Tier 2/3 cities and rural India about hospitality careers.

Cultural Diplomacy:
Release of The Ashok Recipe Book Inspired by Gyan Bharatam, documenting state banquet menus since 1975, positioning gastronomy as soft power.

Hospitality Infrastructure:
- Renovated pools at Hotel Samrat.
- Expanded event venues like Aishwarya Gardens and Airawat Outdoors for weddings, exhibitions, and conferences.

Technology & Governance:
- New Procurement Manual 2026 for transparency and compliance.
- Sound & Light Shows Manual 2026 with modern projection mapping.
- Unified ITDC Template for General Clauses 2026 to streamline governance.

Education & Training:
- Repositioning of Ashok Institute as IHM Ashok, a Centre of Excellence.
- MoU with Ministry of Tribal Affairs to train 1,500 tribal homestay operators.

Immersive Tourism:
Teasers for new Sound & Light shows at Leh, Purana Qila, Bundi, Sarkhej Roza, and Udayagiri & Khandagiri.

Travel Services:
- ATT repositioned as a one-stop solution for tours, visas, concierge, and premium travel.
- Launch of www.itdcbookings.in for seamless government and PSU bookings.

Promotions & Campaigns:
- Film showcasing The Ashok’s heritage and modern indulgence.
- Partnership with NITI Aayog for “Chalo India with Eric Ji” (Mizoram).

Big Picture
This isn’t just about celebrating milestones—it’s about future-proofing India’s tourism ecosystem with technology, inclusivity, and cultural branding. ITDC is positioning itself as both a custodian of heritage and a driver of innovation.