Travl360 (A Unit of T4 Initiatives) has been honoured with the ‘Most Promising MICE Operator’ award at the Indian Travel Awards 2025. Munish Sekhri, Managing Director, said winning his third award at the platform felt amazing, adding that he looks forward to continued growth in the hospitality sector and dedicates the recognition to future opportunities.

The Rajasthan cabinet has approved the Rajasthan Tourism Policy 2025. The policy proposes Special Tourism Zones, single-window clearances, PPP-led projects, new tourism circuits projection mapping, light-and-sound shows, prepaid taxi booths, e-vehicle tours and a Rajasthan Travel Card. It also strengthens tourist safety measures with a 24×7 call centre, tourist assistance force and panic-button-based systems and allots 15 acres at Kishangarh airport for a new approach-lighting system.

At the TravTalk ThinkTank held at Le Meridien New Delhi, Gaurav Luthra, Industry Expert, Ex-Chief Business Officer, Yatra, and Ex-Managing Director, FCM India, emphasised that the next phase of growth for Indian travel companies will depend on leadership maturity. He noted that modern travel businesses cannot scale if decision-making stays centralised. “Leaders need to set the direction, articulate the ‘why,’ and then trust their teams to deliver without being on their shoulders,” he said. Luthra highlighted that companies embracing transparent goals, empowered teams and a culture of confidence will be best positioned to navigate rapid industry shifts and new-age customer expectations.

India is set to make travel significantly easier for Russian visitors with the introduction of a free 30-day e-tourist visa, which is expected to encourage more Russian travellers to visit India, reducing both cost and paperwork and a free 30-day group tourist visa, making it easier for travel agents and tour operators to bring Russian groups to India. The initiative is part of a broader effort to expand tourism and cultural engagement between the two countries at a time when Russia is seeking new travel partners, and India is diversifying inbound tourism markets.

TezJet Airlines commenced its direct passenger services between Delhi and Bishkek, marking a new milestone in India-Kyrgyzstan connectivity. The service will operate once a week, every Sunday, offering Indian travellers convenient access to Kyrgyzstan – an emerging favourite known for its stunning mountain landscapes, alpine lakes and rich nomadic culture. This launch marks a significant step in strengthening not only air connectivity between the two nations, but also further enhancing opportunities for tourism, trade and cultural exchange.

The Hotel and Restaurant Equipment Manufacturers Association of India (HOTREMAI) has unanimously elected Anil Malhotra as President for the 2025–27 term. This marks his third tenure leading the association. Malhotra, a senior figure in the hospitality equipment sector, brings more than four decades of experience, including international training in Austria, Switzerland and Germany, as well as a long association with the Taj Group. An Economics (Hons.) graduate from Hindu College and a qualified Hotel Kaufmann from Austria, he has led the HSMC Group for over thirty years, working with several global hotel brands.  

The Odisha government has set a target to develop 15 fully operational airports by 2047, which would significantly enhance the regional, domestic, and international air linkages. The state has 26 airports and airstrips, of which 12 are state-owned, and only five are civilian airports. Discussions were also held to formulate a comprehensive state aviation policy to streamline regulatory processes, attract private investments and facilitate uniform growth across the sector.

THE Park Hotels group will start the construction of its new luxury property in Kolkata next year, with commissioning targeted for March 2029. The Kolkata Municipal Corporation recently approved the project, which will span 7,00,000 sq. ft. and feature both hotel and residential components.

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.