To boost efficiency and a unified global brand, IATO suggests a 50:50 funding split between the Union Ministry of Tourism and states/UTs for international marketing campaigns. Ravi Gosain, President, IATO, said, “A long-term, country-specific marketing strategy and continuity under the ‘Incredible India’ campaign are essential to strengthen India’s year-round destination appeal.”

Speaking at the MP Travel Mart, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Tourism Minister, GoI, said, “Tourism now contributes over ₹20 trillion to our national GDP and provides livelihood to more than 84 million people. With 20 million inbound tourists last year, India’s tourism sector is estimated to grow at a CAGR of more than 25 per cent.”

The Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) has announced that its President, Sunil Kumar, has been appointed as the Vice Chairman of the Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism and Hospitality (FAITH) for the term 2025–26. As TAAI approaches its landmark 75th year in 2026, Sunil Kumar’s leadership role at FAITH underscores the association’s continued commitment to representing the interests of the travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors at a national level.

Jagsons Travels was honoured as the Best Travel Ancillary Services Provider of the Year at the India Travel Awards 2025. Receiving the award, Sobinder Singh Kohli, Executive Director, Jagsons Travels, said, “This award is a proud milestone and a tribute to our dedicated team. It truly belongs to our valued clients and partners for their unwavering trust.”

Skyscanner’s ‘Travel Trends 2026 Report’ reveals 3 in 5 Indians plan to travel more next year, with 58% willing to spend more on flights, 49% on accommodation, and 35% on car hire. Cost-conscious choices remain key, with food (63%), flight costs (60%), accommodation (56%), and visas (48%) shaping itineraries.

PA Mohammed Riyas, Tourism Minister, Kerala announced ₹100-crore modernisation plans for Kovalam, Varkala, and Kappil beaches, a National Institute of Water Sports at Beypore, and cruise terminals in Kochi and Kollam. The government also plans an international wellness conclave. “The Centre’s ₹376-crore allocation for six projects will give a strong boost to Kerala’s tourism initiatives,” he said, sharing plans for an international wellness conclave.

Impiana Private Villas, Seminyak, Bali, is hosting a webinar on 15 October at 2 pm. Participants can explore why Impiana is ideal for honeymooners, families, groups, and weddings, discover exclusive villa offerings, and learn about new packages with value additions. The session will also include an interactive quiz with gift vouchers and a live Q&A, offering attendees an engaging glimpse into Bali’s hidden luxury gem. For more info, write to jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or call 9650196532.

Mayfair Spring Valley Resort in Guwahati was recognised as the Best Luxury Resort – Destination Weddings in Northeast at the India Travel Awards 2025. Pravesh Sharma, Director, said, “Receiving this award is an incredible honour for me and my team. It celebrates our dedication, creativity, and hospitality, inspiring us to create unforgettable celebrations.”

HRAWI has welcomed the Maharashtra Government’s move allowing shops, hotels, and restaurants across the state to operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Jimmy Shaw, President, HRAWI, said, “This decision empowers businesses with greater flexibility while benefitting local communities through job creation. It recognises the industry’s needs and supports Mumbai’s global city ambitions and the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.”

Rajasthan welcomed 15.04 crore domestic tourists from January to August this year, up 11% from last year, driven by festivals, heritage circuits, and improved air connectivity. However, foreign visitors dropped 5% to 11.9 lakh, reflecting global uncertainties. Rajesh Yadav, Principal Secretary, Tourism Department, said, “The drop in foreign tourists is being felt across the country due to global factors beyond our control. What we can do is continue promoting Rajasthan globally, which we are doing aggressively through international travel fairs.”