As the IATO Elections 2025-2027 approach, the spotlight is firmly on Team Stronger Together, a dynamic group of industry veterans poised to steer Indian inbound tourism into a more resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive phase. Contesting for key leadership roles—Rajnish Kaistha for Senior Vice President, Sanjay Razdan for Vice President, and Sunil Mishra for Honorary Secretary—each brings a unique perspective rooted in action, reform, and commitment.
Tripti Jain
Rajnish Kaistha: Reforming structures
For Rajnish Kaistha, a seasoned industry professional and Managing Director of Paradise Holidays India Pvt Ltd., the future begins with structural reforms. “In the absence of direct support from the Ministry of Tourism, we at Team Stronger Together are determined to revamp internal IATO mechanisms to better serve our members,” he says.
He highlights strategic collaboration with the Commerce and External Affairs Ministries through SEPC (Services Export Promotion Council) and Indian Embassies abroad. “Our roadmap includes organising India Tourism roadshows based on the government’s renewed global focus and ensuring participation is planned one year in advance,” he explains.
Rajnish Kaistha also underlines the urgent need for financial parity for inbound operators. “We are committed to serious efforts in securing RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products) for our members, recognising them as foreign exchange earners in the absence of SEIS,” he adds.
Technology, inclusivity, and partnerships are key themes in his strategy. “We’ll improve digital engagement and open all communication channels with members for regular feedback and real-time updates. Simultaneously, we’ll work closely with state governments to promote destinations and improve infrastructure at tourism sites.”
Sanjay Razdan: A mission of commitment
For Sanjay Razdan of Razdan Holidays, contesting for Vice President is both a privilege and a mission. “It is an honour and a responsibility to represent such a vibrant and ever-evolving industry,” he states. “The last two years have laid a solid foundation under Mr. Rajiv Mehra’s leadership, but the journey is far from over.”
Having previously served as Hony. Secretary, Razdan brings continuity with a promise of renewed vigour. “Some battles we have won, others are ongoing—but the goal remains to ensure that IATO speaks powerfully and inclusively for all members, large or small.”
His leadership philosophy emphasises service over status. “Leadership isn’t about titles. It’s about dedication, integrity, and the ability to listen. I pledge to serve with transparency, ensuring that every tour operator feels represented.”
Sanjay Razdan aligns with Team Stronger Together’s goal of making IATO more responsive to ground realities. “With Mr Ravi Gosain at the helm, our collective energy will be focused on advocacy, reforms, and robust industry-government coordination,” he adds.
Sunil Mishra: Rebuilding India’s Inbound
Sunil Mishra, from Cosmos Tours & Travels and a candidate for Honorary Secretary, has outlined a sharply focused agenda to re-energise India’s inbound tourism growth. “Reviving foreign tourist arrivals must be a national priority, and IATO has a key role to play in that process,” he explains.
His three-point plan starts with strong advocacy for India’s visibility in global markets. “We’ll push for the reintroduction of incentive schemes such as SEIS and MDA—or effective alternatives—to boost overseas branding and empower our inbound operators,” he shares.
Sunil Mishra also champions empowering members to act as India’s tourism ambassadors. “Every IATO member is an asset. We want to facilitate their presence in international roadshows and trade fairs, strengthening India’s brand story at a grassroots level,” he says.
Equally important is the ease of doing business. “Whether it’s better coordination with hoteliers, transporters, or visa facilitation, we’ll work to eliminate operational hurdles. A smooth backend ensures a world-class front-end for tourists,” Mishra highlights.
He believes collaboration will be the cornerstone of success. He shares, “With a united, action-oriented team, we can reshape inbound tourism into a more competitive and member-driven ecosystem.”
A vote for experience, vision, and action
As IATO members prepare to cast their votes on May 10, 2025, at Hotel The Ashok, the message from Team Stronger Together is clear: this is more than an election—it’s a movement to reimagine and reinforce India’s inbound tourism framework.
With Rajnish Kaistha’s strategic reforms, Sanjay Razdan’s continuity with purpose, and Sunil Mishra’s focused action plan, the team promises not only representation but transformation.
