Reduce tax to boost MICE: NIMA

Shedding light on NIMA’s role in fostering growth and collaboration within India’s MICE industry, Nitin Mittal, Coordinator-South, NIMA, says the platform is dedicated to MICE agents and offers a supportive environment for professionals to connect, learn, and thrive.

Surbhi Sharma

The Network of Indian MICE Agents (NIMA) distinguishes itself from other industry associations by its persistent focus on supporting MICE agents across India. Unlike organisations that prioritise strategic planning, NIMA is committed to providing hands-on assistance and guidance to agents, regardless of their location or size.

Elaborating on the network’s functions, Nitin Mittal, Coordinator-South, NIMA, said, “Through a vibrant community of members, NIMA facilitates knowledge sharing, networking opportunities, and problem-solving. Members can actively participate in discussions, seek advice, and collaborate on projects without the fear of self-promotion. This unique culture of cooperation fosters a sense of fellowship and mutual support among NIMA’s members.” Talking about the recent initiatives started by the association, Mittal said, “To bridge the gap between academia and industry, NIMA has taken notable strides, such as forging partnerships with educational institutions like Garden City University in Bangalore, offering students valuable opportunities for internships, training, and career development.”

Furthermore, NIMA has been actively involved in delivering guest lectures at various educational institutions, sharing its expertise and insights with aspiring tourism professionals. By providing students with practical exposure to the industry, NIMA aims to equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed, Mittal said.

Advocacy for industry growth

NIMA has been outspoken in advocating for policies that support the MICE industry’s growth in India. “The association has consistently called for the rationalisation of TCS (tax collected at source) and a reduction in GST rates on tourism products. While these demands have not been fully met by the government’s side, NIMA remains optimistic about the future and continues to advocate for measures that can benefit the industry,” Mittal said.

Highlighting that NIMA’s commitment towards its members is evident in its efforts to provide a supportive and collaborative environment, Mittal said, “As the MICE industry continues to evolve, NIMA’s role as a catalyst for growth and innovation

will become increasingly important. Sustaining a solid sense of community and providing valuable resources, NIMA has well-positioned itself to shape the future of India’s MICE industry,” he added.

Growing membership

NIMA had adopted a conservative approach to membership, resulting in a smaller membership base in the past. However, it has recently expanded its membership by more than 25 per cent.