Suman Billa, Additional Secretary & DG Tourism, Govt of India, highlighted that tourism in India is at the cusp of a long-term growth cycle, presenting immense opportunities for youth. He advised the youngsters not to restrict themselves to traditional hospitality roles but to embrace entrepreneurship, particularly in under-leveraged areas like tourism products and experiential offerings. According to him, India needs innovative thinkers who can develop unique travel experiences and showcase them globally, making entrepreneurship a vital driver of the sector’s future growth and competitiveness.

Minor Hotels, an international hotel owner, operator and investor with a portfolio of more than 560 properties across 59 countries, continues to deepen its commitment to supporting the destinations in which it operates. As part of this long-standing focus, the group’s global ‘Dollars for Deeds’ initiative has played an important role in connecting hospitality with meaningful community support. First introduced nearly a decade ago in Minor Hotels’ Anantara branded properties in Thailand, ‘Dollars for Deeds’ is now embedded into the social responsibility strategies of Minor Hotels worldwide. The programme invites guests to opt-in at check-in by contributing one US dollar per night of their stay. Minor Hotels matches each donation in full, with funds directed to carefully selected charitable and environmental projects tailored to each location. From coral conservation in the Maldives to child welfare projects in Hungary, the initiative has consistently sought to create measurable impact. In Sri Lanka, support has been directed towards the Turtle Hatchery near Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle and the Elephant Orphanage in Pinnawala through Anantara Kalutara and Avani Kalutara. Now, Minor Hotels Sri Lanka is taking this commitment even further by partnering with Ayati Trust, a national centre dedicated to supporting children with disabilities. Established in 2016 and operational since 2020, the Ayati National Centre for Children with Disabilities provides diagnostic, therapeutic, and educational services to children and families across Sri Lanka. The facility — the first of its kind nationally — was formed through collaboration between the University of Kelaniya, Hemas Holdings, MAS Holdings, Roshan Wijerama family Foundation, Rotary International, and several philanthropic partners. Ayati was built on the understanding that every child has potential — but children with disabilities often face social …

Speaking at the Philippines Itinerary Training in New Delhi, H.E. Josel Francisco Ignacio, Ambassador of the Philippines to India, revealed that the country welcomed 82,925 Indian tourists between January and September, a 7.93% year-on-year growth. In 2024, the country recorded over 78,000 Indian arrivals, up 12.4% from 2023. Filipino visitors to India have also rebounded close to pre-pandemic levels, underscoring growing reciprocal tourism between the two nations.

Monisha Dewan, VP – Sales and Distribution, South Asia, Marriott International, noted a strong shift in traveller preferences. “Leisure travellers are increasingly seeking immersive and memorable experiences that go beyond the room. Demand for wellness offerings, culinary journeys, and locally inspired experiences reflecting cultural richness is rising. These elements are now essential for guest satisfaction and loyalty,” she said.

Accenture’s latest report, Beyond the Stay, identifies gamification as a powerful tool to enhance guest engagement and loyalty. The study reveals that 76% of Indian hoteliers expect revenue growth from gamified strategies, with investments in this area projected to rise by over 15% in the next three to five years, reflecting strong industry confidence.

A delegation from the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) met Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Finance Minister, submitting a detailed representation seeking a fair, growth-oriented GST framework for hospitality. The association urged regularisation of past GST dues since 2017, restoration of Input Tax Credit (ITC) for hotels, and delinking F&B GST rates from room tariffs to ensure sectoral revival.

Attend an exclusive webinar by Impiana Private Villas, Seminyak, Bali, on 15 October at 2 pm, and discover Bali’s hidden luxury gems with exclusive villa offerings and learn about new packages with value additions. The webinar will also include a quiz, a live Q&A, and gift vouchers. For more info, write to jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or call 9650196532.

This Diwali, Experience Abu Dhabi invites families to make unforgettable memories with unique celebrations and experiences happening all across the city. From vibrant exhibitions and international icons in concerts to festive meals and staycations, there’s something for every family to see, do and discover – all in one easy to reach destination. If you’re looking to plan your Diwali itinerary, here are some of the things to look forward to in the city: 1. Savour festive flavours Food is at the heart of every festivity, and this Diwali, Abu Dhabi has something for every taste. Families can enjoy a Diwali Mela at Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi, festive menus at Zeera by Buddha-Bar or experience the Festival of Lights at 28 Degrees, Bab Al Nojoum, Hudayriyat Island, complete with traditional decor including rangolis and diyas, and a dedicated Diwali menu every weekend in October. With everything from Indian thalis to playful fusion dishes, Abu Dhabi’s dining scene is as diverse as it is full of flavour. 2. Cheer for top athletes This Diwali, watch some of the most exciting sporting events in Abu Dhabi, as October sees UFC 321, UAE Warriors and the KMBZ Championship bringing fans closer to the action and creating high-energy experiences for the whole family. 3. Watch international stars take the stage Music fills the air this festive season, with performances from Andre Rieu and Atif Aslam. From classical melodies to Bollywood hits by one of India’s favourite voices, Abu Dhabi’s concerts promise an entertaining evening for every music lover. 4. Enjoy a Diwali staycation Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island makes it easy to immerse yourself in Diwali celebrations with vibrant decor, live entertainment and Indian cooking stations. …

IndiGo has commenced flights from Mumbai to Copenhagen, Denmark. It is IndiGo’s 44th international and 138th destination overall. The services will be operated three times a week with the leased Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft.

Air India has entered a new interline partnership with STARLUX Airlines, further enhancing travel options for customers across Asia. The agreement between the two carriers enables single-ticket itineraries that combine Air India and STARLUX flights, offering smoother journeys, coordinated baggage handling, and simplified travel for customers of both airlines. Through this partnership, Air India customers will be able to access Taipei via Air India’s Southeast Asia gateways, namely, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Singapore, Ho Chi Minh City and Kuala Lumpur.