The India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) celebrated a historic double milestone this week—
60 years of ITDC and 70 years of its iconic flagship property, The Ashok, in New Delhi. The grand event
brought together policymakers, industry stalwarts, and senior officials to honour decades of service to
India’s hospitality and tourism industry.

The ceremonial evening commenced with the traditional lighting of the lamp in the esteemed
presence of Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister for Tribal
Affairs Jual Oram, Tourism Secretary Shrivatsa Krishna, Information and Broadcasting Secretary Sanjay
Jaju, Secretary (Department of Investment and Public Asset Management) Arunish Chawla, Secretary
(Department of Public Enterprise) Moses Chalai, and NITI Aayog Member Vinod Pal. Minister of State
for Tourism and Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi joined the celebrations virtually.

The event provided a forum for considering ITDC’s development as a key organization influencing
India’s tourist industry. Founded with the goal of boosting the nation’s tourism industry and hospitality
infrastructure, ITDC has been at the forefront of creating heritage hotels, upscale housing, and tourism
services that meet international standards.

The Ashok, one of India’s most recognisable hospitality innovations, has remained one and the same
with iconic service and political hospitality for seven decades. The property has hosted numerous
global leaders, cultural events, and major national gatherings. Its legacy reflects the transformation of
Indian tourism from a growing business to one that is recognized around the world. To mark seven decades of famous service by The Ashok, ITDC—in coordination with the Department
of Posts—released a Special Commemorative Postage Stamp. Additionally, a film honouring Ashok’s
visual luxury was released, alongside a stylised AR postcard that brings the film to life through a rooted
QR code. Additionally, an ITDC Gift Card was unveiled as a comprehensive brand loyalty solution.

The celebrations served as both a tribute to ITDC’s remarkable past and a reaffirmation of its vision to
strengthen India’s position as a leading global tourism destination.