The Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI) hosted its Members’ Meet series across two key cities, with Kolkata on April 2 at Cal On, Hyatt Centric, followed by Mumbai on April 3, 2026, at Kyma, BKC, in association with myPartner by MakeMyTrip. Both gatherings brought together the OTOAI Managing Committee, the myPartner by MakeMyTrip team, and a strong turnout of members.

Designed as relaxed, no agenda evenings, the meets encouraged meaningful conversations, stronger connections, and a genuine sense of camaraderie among attendees. They highlighted how informal interactions often create the most lasting impact within the travel fraternity.

Addressing members, Himanshu Patil, President, OTOAI, outlined the association’s priorities and the challenges it continues to navigate. He noted that as a relatively young body representing outbound tourism, expanding membership remains critical to strengthening its collective voice and ability to address industry concerns. He also pointed out that outbound tourism still lacks adequate recognition at the government level, often being viewed as a forex outflow, which limits its representation at the Centre.

At the same time, he highlighted key advocacy achievements, including OTOAI’s contribution to the reduction of TCS on overseas tour packages to a flat 2 per cent in Budget 2026, describing it as a meaningful step towards enhancing competitiveness. He added that a more united and robust membership base would enable the association to engage more effectively with policymakers and push forward important industry agendas.

Both the Kolkata and Mumbai meets received an encouraging response, reinforcing the value of consistent engagement and collaboration within the OTOAI community.