Skål International India has expanded its presence in Jammu & Kashmir with the launch of its 20th club ‘Skål International Kashmir’ at Taj Dal View, Srinagar, inaugurated by Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister, J&K. Expressing confidence in the strengthened tourism movement, he said, “Kashmir welcomes Skål International with open arms — together, we will invite the world to rediscover our peace, beauty, and hospitality. Any B2B networking is good for the Kashmir economy. Tourism is our key business, and Skål International India is doing excellent work — we are happy to see Kashmir in the spotlight for Skål International India.” Sanjeev Mehra, President, Skål International India, said, “Our goal is to establish at least one club in every State and UT — and even multiple clubs where the industry size demands it.” The ceremony followed official Skål protocols, including the oath and pinning of office-bearers and founder members, certificate presentations, recognition of tourism contributors, and messages of solidarity from Skål leaders. Office Bearers — Skål International Kashmir President — Sk Zahoor Ahmad Qari Vice President 1 — Sk Showket Ahmad Pakhtoon Vice President 2 — Sk Shamim A Shah Secretary — Sk Ather Yameen Narwari Treasurer — Sk Mir Anwar Membership Development Officer — Sk Tanveer Ahmad Khan Director — PR, Communications & CSR — Sk Irshad Hazari Auditor — Sk Rahil Patloo

The Oberoi Group has opened ‘The Oberoi Rajgarh Palace’ in Madhya Pradesh’s Khajuraho. This meticulously restored 350-year-old architectural jewel is set within a 76-acre estate featuring a pristine natural lake. The estate features 65 elegantly designed rooms and suites, including grand Palace Suites, private pool villas and accommodations with private gardens and terraces overlooking the hills, forests and shimmering lake. The palace also offers refined venues for intimate gatherings, with banquet spaces that accommodate up to 200 guests within 440 square metres of opulent and glamorous indoor settings, complemented by an additional 518 square metres outdoors.  

GRT Hotels & Resorts successfully hosted the latest edition of its signature thought leadership series under the banner of “Great Conversations”, & the topic was ‘Navigating Tomorrow – Leaders in Conversations.’ The insightful evening centred on a critical industry topic: Emerging Travel Trends and Changing Guest Behaviours. The event featured a powerful all-women panel of industry stalwarts, offering diverse perspectives on the rapidly evolving travel landscape and the shift in consumer expectations.

Rail Europe recently hosted its key accounts from India and the GCC on an exclusive familiarisation trip across Switzerland and Germany, to strengthen partnerships and spotlight the seamless connectivity and flexibility of exploring Europe by train. Participating partners included Veena World, Kesari, Thomas Cook/SOTC, TBO.COM, Ottila International, Riya Holidays, Amigo Travels, and Satguru. Lufthansa served as the airline partner for the trip.

Srivatsa Krishna, IAS (1994 Karnataka cadre), who was recently appointed as the new Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, is all set to join office on 1 December. A topper of the 1994 IAS batch, Krishna brings with him a distinguished record across governance, policy, and global institutions. Before assuming this role, he served in several key leadership positions in Karnataka, including Secretary – Commerce & Industry, Chairman – Urban Administration and Development, Secretary – E-Governance, and Secretary of the Department of IT, Biotechnology and Science & Technology. He has also served as Director of IIT Madras and IIM Bangalore, and as Chief Executive Officer & Secretary of the Coffee Board of India.

Bengal has emerged as India’s second most preferred destination for international tourists after Maharashtra, according to the India Tourism Data Compendium 2025. Despite lacking direct flights to Europe or the US, the state recorded 31 lakh foreign arrivals in 2024 — a 14.8% increase from 27 lakh in 2023. The surge reflects the state’s rising global appeal across culture, heritage, and tourism experiences.

Le Méridien New Delhi won the ‘Best City Business Hotel’ award at the India Travel Awards 2025. Receiving the award, Meena Bhatia, Vice President and General Manager, said, “The true edge of hospitality lies in the human touch. While we must embrace technology and prepare for the future, my advice to future leaders is never lose the human edge that defines hospitality.”

Skål International is set to launch its Kashmir club at Taj Dal View, Srinagar, on 29 November, marking a major step in expanding its India presence, said Sanjeev Mehra, President, Skål International India. The club will look after the Central Kashmir region. Mehra confirmed that additional clubs are planned across various regions, strengthening its network and fostering greater collaboration within the country’s travel and tourism fraternity.

Sue Moore, Mayor of Singleton, will highlight the best of Hunter Valley — from vineyard escapes and hot-air balloon rides to unforgettable countryside adventures — at an exclusive webinar by Turtle Down Under tomorrow at 11.30 AM IST. Three lucky winners stand a chance to win Amazon vouchers by filling out the live survey during the session. For more information, write to jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or 9650196532.

Cholan Tours has launched a pioneering women-led e-auto initiative in Madurai, training 20 women to become certified electric auto-rickshaw drivers in the historic Temple City. Calling it a “small step toward empowering the women of Madurai,” Pandian Kumaravel, Founder & MD, said the programme will soon expand to other cities across Tamil Nadu, with Trichy next in line.