India’s First Wedding & MICE Conclave Concludes on a High Note in Kochi
The inaugural edition of KTM’s Wedding & MICE Conclave — India’s first dedicated platform for the Weddings and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions) sector — concluded on a high note today, after three days of engaging discussions, B2B meetings, cultural showcases, and networking sessions that brought together global tourism stakeholders in Kochi.
The conclave was inaugurated on August 14 at the Grand Hyatt, Bolgatty, by Kerala’s Tourism and Public Works Minister Shri P A Mohamed Riyas, who declared that Kerala offers the most enchanting “off-beat venues” in the country, making it an unmatched choice for weddings, corporate events, and personal celebrations.
“Our state offers an unmatched combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, world-class infrastructure and highly skilled professionals. Here, dreams are not just celebrated — they truly come alive,” Shri Riyas said at the inauguration. “From shimmering backwaters to centuries-old forts, Kerala transforms every occasion into a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
Chairing the ceremony, Minister for Industries, Coir and Law Shri P Rajeeve highlighted Kerala’s top ranking in five-star hotels and its strong hospitality reputation. “This conclave was a statement of sustainable growth. Kerala is safe, socially vibrant, and fully prepared to partner with the tourism industry to deliver world-class events,” he said.
Tourism Secretary Shri Biju K presented Kerala’s unique proposition as a Wedding & MICE destination, while Shri Suman Billa, Additional Secretary & DG, Ministry of Tourism, urged Kerala to establish a dedicated MICE Promotion Bureau to compete globally. “The global Wedding & MICE sector is worth $1 trillion. India contributes just 1.8% — there is immense scope to grow. Kerala must create an ecosystem to capitalise on this,” Shri Billa advised.
Over the three days, the conclave witnessed vibrant participation with 675 registered buyers — 610 from India and 65 from abroad — representing markets such as the UAE, UK, Germany, USA, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Italy, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and more. The venue at Le Meridien, Kochi, hosted 75 exhibition stalls, including KTDC, Kerala Tourism, and the Union Ministry of Tourism.
Highlights included seminars on MICE in God’s Own Country: Unlocking New Avenues and Sacred Vows & Scenic Views: Reimagining Destination Weddings in Kerala, along with cultural evenings and networking dinners at Kochi’s premier hotels. Delegates also experienced Kerala’s rich heritage through curated performances and immersive experiences.
KTM Society President Shri Jose Pradeep said the conclave served as a common platform for global buyers, sellers, and planners to collaborate. “This initiative has marked Kerala’s entry into a new chapter of tourism excellence — integrating leisure, culture, and high-end event tourism under one banner,” he noted.
KTM Hon. Secretary Shri S Swaminathan described the event as the best example of a public-private partnership, backed by strong support from the Tourism Department and industry stakeholders.
Also present were Kerala Tourism Director Ms Sikha Surendran, Kochi Mayor Shri M Anilkumar, and former KTM presidents including Shri Jose Dominic, Shri EM Najeeb, Shri Riyaz Ahmed, Shri Abraham George, and Shri Baby Mathew Somatheeram.
The conclave concluded with renewed optimism for Kerala’s positioning as a premier global hub for Wedding & MICE tourism, with delegates affirming that the event opened new opportunities for collaboration, promotion, and sustainable growth.
