Strikin, a U.S.-based global entertainment company has expressed its sincere gratitude to the Commissioner of Tourism and Patel Ramesh Garu, Chairman of Tourism, Telangana, for the opportunity to present its transformative entertainment vision for the state. In collaboration with Cirque Éloize, a renowned Canadian entertainment company, Strikin aims to position Telangana as a global destination in the entertainment sector. This partnership underscores a shared commitment to redefining entertainment experiences and elevating Telangana’s global standing. Strikin also unveiled its second initiative, Theme Team Entertainment, a theme-based entertainment concept inspired by iconic destinations like Universal Studios and Disney World. This state-of-the-art venue will be the first of its kind in Hyderabad and across India, setting a new benchmark in the Indian entertainment landscape. During the presentation, Strikin recognised the synergy and alignment of vision with the Commissioner and Telangana’s leadership. The company expressed eagerness to initiate these transformative projects, which promise to significantly boost Telangana’s profile as a hub for world-class entertainment. This announcement comes at a pivotal moment as the Telangana Government recently introduced its first-ever comprehensive Tourism Policy, ‘Telangana Tourism Policy 2025-30’, in the Legislative Assembly. The policy aims to generate three lakh jobs, making this initiative highly relevant and timely.

Rikant Pittie co-founded EaseMyTrip in 2008 and has been instrumental in its growth and success over the years With over 16 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry, he has a deep understanding of market trends and customer needs EaseMyTrip.com, one of India’s leading online travel tech platforms, has announced the appointment of Rikant Pittie as its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Co-founder. In his new role, Rikant will lead the company’s strategic initiatives, drive innovation, and enhance customer experiences to further strengthen EaseMyTrip’s position in the industry. Rikant Pittie co-founded EaseMyTrip in 2008 and has been instrumental in its growth and success over the years. With over 16 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry, he has a deep understanding of market trends and customer needs. Under his leadership, EaseMyTrip has achieved significant growth, reflecting its commitment to a customer-first approach. “The travel industry is at a transformative juncture where technology and personalisation are redefining how people explore the world.” Speaking on his appointment, Rikant Pittie, CEO, Co-founder, EaseMyTrip said, “The travel industry is at a transformative juncture where technology and personalisation are redefining how people explore the world. At EaseMyTrip, our mission goes beyond simply offering an enhanced travel experience. It is about setting new benchmarks. We are dedicated to pioneering innovative solutions that empower travellers globally. I am both honoured and thrilled to take on this role and look forward to continuing the company’s journey.” Rikant has also been recognised for his exceptional contributions to the business landscape, having won the prestigious Fortune India 40 Under 40 and Entrepreneur India’s Entrepreneurship of the Year in Service Business – Travel Category. Notably, Rikant Pittie …

IndiGo has announced new domestic routes, establishing direct flight connections between Bhubaneswar and Dehradun, and Dehradun and Srinagar, effective 6 February, 2025. These additions to IndiGo’s network will improve connectivity and offer passengers a wider range of travel choices.

Expanding its presence in North India, ITC Hotels announced the opening 81-room Welcomhotel in Delhi. The hotel is conveniently located near Delhi Airport. It features modern amenities and expansive event spaces for weddings, social gatherings, and conferences.

According to Cirium, an aviation analytics firm, Indian airlines have seen a significant influx of new aircraft in 2024, with 97 deliveries already completed and 10 more expected. Alternatively, Cirium’s data suggests a slight decrease in 2025, with 86 new aircraft projected.

With passenger traffic steadily increasing at Indian airports, the Airport Authority of India (AAI) has significantly expanded aviation infrastructure and connectivity to meet the rising demand. Compared to the previous year, AAI has seen substantial growth, with a 6.7 per cent increase in aircraft movements and a 15 per cent jump in passenger numbers.

Evgeny Kozlov, Chairman, Moscow City Tourism Committee, informed that Russia aims to attract more Indians and MICE visitors. To do so they have already liberalised visa process and introduced e-visa. Russia aims to double tourism’s contribution to its GDP from 3.8 per cent to 10 per cent by 2030 by launching ‘Tourism and Hospitality’ project in 2025.

According to HVS Anarock’s ‘Occupancy Trends Across Key Indian Markets,’ all major cities saw a rise in occupancy rates in 2024 compared to previous year. Mumbai tops with over 80 per cent occupancy, driven by MICE events and high-profile gatherings like Dua Lipa’s concert. Pune recorded the highest growth, with a 12-14 percentage point increase.

Hemant Soren, Chief Minister, Jharkhand directed officials to prepare a blueprint for promoting eco-tourism in Jharkhand. With a forest cover of around 33 per cent, the state offers immense potential for eco-tourism activities such as forest trails, nature walks, jungle safaris, trekking and rock climbing, among others for adventure and nature enthusiasts.

Ravi Jain, Secretary, Tourism Rajasthan, said, “The state has allocated a budget of ₹5000 crore to promote cultural heritage and sustainable tourism, conserve heritage sites, and initiate new projects. Additionally, IIFA Awards 2025, scheduled for 7-9 March in Jaipur, will elevate state’s global appeal by promoting film tourism, local art and culture.