The Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, last night inaugurated a series of multi-dimensional, high-impact initiatives at the Convention Centre of The Ashok, New Delhi, marking the joint celebration of 60 years of India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC) and 70 years of The Ashok Hotel. Describing ITDC as a “multi-dimensional growth engine for India’s tourism and hospitality ecosystem,” the Minister underscored the organisation’s re-imagination strategy for the digital and metaverse age, aligned with the Prime Minister’s vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. The landmark celebration witnessed the launch of a comprehensive bouquet of physical, digital, intellectual, and institutional initiatives aimed at catalysing growth across the tourism and hospitality sector. These initiatives reflect the Union Budget 2026 emphasis on emerging technologies, including Gen AI, immersive experiences, and smart digital infrastructure for commercial excellence. Established in 1966, ITDC is a Schedule ‘B’ Mini-Ratna CPSE under the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Over six decades, it has played a pioneering role in shaping India’s tourism infrastructure, hospitality standards, and international outreach. As ITDC celebrates its Shashthipoorti (60 years), it continues to strengthen market leadership through modernisation, institutional reforms, and technology-enabled transformation. Commissioned in 1956, The Ashok, New Delhi, ITDC’s flagship property and India’s only PSU-managed five-star luxury hotel, marks 70 years of distinguished service to the Nation. Along with its sister property, Hotel Samrat, it continues to redefine excellence in hospitality. The Ashok is a recipient of the National Tourism Award for Best Facilities for Differently-Abled Persons and Best Hotel-Based Meeting Venue, and remains central to India’s diplomatic engagements, MICE tourism, and luxury hospitality landscape. In collaboration with the Department of Posts, a customised commemorative “My Stamp” postage stamp sheet was released to honour The Ashok’s 70-year legacy. These officially valid stamps will serve as collectables, branding tools, and heritage souvenirs.