The Indian Tourist Transporters Association (ITTA) is in advanced discussions with Mercedes-Benz to purchase 100 E-Class and S-Class vehicles, announced Bobby K.S. Sawhney, Honorary Secretary, ITTA. The move is aimed at elevating service standards and enhancing the premium travel experience offered by ITTA members.  

Dilip Puri, Founder & CEO, Indian School of Hospitality, said, “With India’s booming domestic market, many hotels thrive without foreign footfall.” However, he urges renewed global marketing, noting, “It’s time to repush the revamped ‘Incredible India 2.0’ campaign, backed by robust government support,” to showcase improved connectivity, infrastructure and guest experiences. 

Cross Hotels & Resorts invites Indian MICE travel agents to a special webinar on 15 July at 3 pm to explore dynamic MICE opportunities in brand’s properties across Thailand. Get insights to help create enriched itineraries for your corporate clients. Register to learn more and win exciting prizes. For further info, contact sandeep.raghav@crosshotelsandresorts.in or 9599076699. 

Jasmeet Singh, Chief Commercial Officer-Holidays & Experiences, MakeMyTrip, said, “Agents offer trust and end-to-end support, especially in smaller cities where travel planning is often high-involvement and relationship-driven.” He believes that in these markets, travellers still rely heavily on personalised guidance, reassurance and handholding through complex itineraries. 

The Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, Sultanate of Oman, is organising an exclusive webinar for the Indian travel trade on 2 July at 3 pm IST. Speakers from Oman Air, JW Marriott Muscat and Zahara Tours will highlight the latest offerings and leisure experiences. Register and attend for a chance to win exciting prizes. For details, contact jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or 9650196532. 

India’s first Wedding and MICE Conclave will be held in Kochi from August 14–16. Organised by Kerala Travel Mart Society with the Tourism Department, it aims to promote Kerala as a premier destination. PA Mohamed Riyas, Minister, Kerala Tourism said, “The conclave aims to tap Kerala’s potential in this fast-growing segment, leveraging the state’s unique advantages to transform it into a global MICE and wedding tourism hub.” 

Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) has launched an initiative called TAAI DMC Connect to connect global DMCs, tourism boards and authorities with its outbound tour operators across India. With a network of over 2,000 members, it aims to promote destinations and boost clients’ businesses. 

Dev Karvat, Founder & CEO, Asego, said, “There has been a clear increase in demand for comprehensive, top-tier travel protection plans. Travellers are now asking more informed questions, they want to know exactly what scenarios are covered, especially around medical emergencies. Many are upgrading medical coverage limits and actively opting for benefits, relevant to their destinations.  This growing awareness indicates that travel insurance is not considered as just a visa requirement anymore but a quintessential part of trip planning.” 

India has ranked 99th out of 167 nations in the 2025 Sustainable Development Goals Index, marking its first entry into the top 100. The UN Sustainable Development Report noted India’s score improved to 67 from last year’s 64. While global progress is stagnating, India and several Asian nations have shown steady gains in socioeconomic indicators since 2015. 

The Hotel Association of India held key discussions with Dr. Atul Patne, Principal Secretary-Tourism, Government of Maharashtra, on enhancing the state’s hotel ecosystem. HAI proposed industry electricity tariffs, a unified ‘One License One Property’ model, and stronger incentives under the 2024 tourism policy. The government responded positively, supporting long-term investment, sustainable growth and ease of doing business in hospitality.