Raipur, 27 September 2026: The third edition of Central India Connect Marketplace 2026 was held at Mayfair Lake Resort, Raipur, on World Tourism Day. Presented by the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board in association with the Chhattisgarh Travel Trade Association (CGTTA), the event brought together over 60 exhibitors, tourism professionals, travel trade representatives and destination stakeholders from across India and beyond.

The marketplace featured B2B interactions and exhibitions from 3 PM to 6:30 PM, followed by stage programming from 7 PM to 9:30 PM, aiming to strengthen partnerships and create business opportunities.

Dignitaries and Tourism Leaders

The event was attended by Shri Rajesh Agrawal, Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Chhattisgarh; Shri Neelu Sharma, Chairman, Chhattisgarh Tourism Board; Shri Bharatidasan, Secretary, Department of Tourism; Shri Saumil Ranjan Chaubey, Managing Director, Chhattisgarh Tourism Board; Shri Vijay Dayaram K, Collector, Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi; and Shri Jagdeep Bhagat, National President, Tourism India Alliance.

The dignitaries were felicitated by CGTTA representatives Mr. Ritesh Mundra, Mr. Kapil Jain and Mr. Sumit Agrawal. They highlighted Chhattisgarh’s tourism potential, cultural heritage and natural beauty. Shri Neelu Sharma spoke about taking the state’s tourism opportunities to wider markets, while Shri Rajesh Agrawal highlighted tourism development, including destinations such as Jashpur.

Awards and District Showcase

CGTTA presented over 10 awards recognising contributions and achievements across the tourism sector. A coffee table book showcasing the tourism, culture and heritage of Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi was also launched.

District administrations, including Dhamtari and Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi, participated alongside tourism operators and stakeholders from Bastar, Surguja, Tatamari, Kawardha, Korba and Rajnandgaon.

Technology and the Future of Tourism

The marketplace placed emphasis on AI and technology in tourism, encouraging travel businesses to explore technology-led solutions and new opportunities.

Mr. Ritesh Mundra, Program Chairman, said: “This is the third year of Central India Connect, and we are looking at making it bigger and better. Our focus is on helping members understand and adopt AI and technology, while creating stronger collaborations. We also aim to create year-round learning opportunities through expert-led sessions.”

About Central India Connect Marketplace

Central India Connect Marketplace is a CGTTA initiative to bring tourism stakeholders together, facilitate B2B networking and promote Chhattisgarh to domestic and international travellers.

Presented by Chhattisgarh Tourism Board in association with CGTTA. Tripjack was Main Sponsor, Yorker Holidays the Gifting Partner, and Mayfair Lake Resort, Raipur, the Venue Partner. Co-sponsors: Apoorva Tours & Treak, Halo Vacation, Imperial Getaways Tour LLP, Jagsons Travels Pvt Ltd, Luxury Holidays Asia Pvt Ltd, Phoenix Holidays & Resort, Predestination and Yatra Vacation.