Abraham George elected President; Riyas U C, Manu P V, Lijo Issac and Saji Jose take key positions

Kochi, October 16, 2026: The Confederation of Accredited Tour Operators (CATO), an umbrella organisation representing tour operators approved by the Government of Kerala, has elected its new office bearers at a meeting held in Kochi.

Mr Abraham George of Intersight Tours and Travels Pvt Ltd was elected President, while Mr Riyas U C of Spice Land Holidays and Entertainments Pvt Ltd was elected Vice President. Mr Lijo Issac of Iris Holidays was elected as Joint Secretary, Mr Manu P V of Discover Kerala Holidays was elected Secretary, and Mr Saji Jose of Great Escapes was elected Treasurer.

Founded in 2012 through an initiative involving the Government of Kerala and a group of quality-conscious tour operators, CATO aims to promote Kerala tourism by bringing together credible and professionally managed tourism service providers.

Over the years, the organisation has gained recognition among domestic and international tourism stakeholders. It also provides a collective platform for small and medium-sized tour operators, helping strengthen their credibility and promote quality tourism services across Kerala.

Promoting Kerala Tourism

CATO works in association with the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, to promote the state's tourism potential and safeguard the interests of tour operators accredited by Kerala Tourism.

Its activities include organising familiarisation tours for international travel agents and tourism professionals, conducting seminars, workshops and training programmes, and promoting Kerala through publications, travel guides, exhibitions and other marketing initiatives.

The organisation also represents tourism industry concerns before government authorities, studies emerging trends and opportunities, and encourages collaboration among tourism stakeholders to improve professional standards and service quality.

With its new leadership, CATO is expected to continue its efforts to strengthen Kerala's position as a preferred destination for domestic and international travellers while supporting accredited tour operators and fostering closer cooperation between the tourism industry and the government.