The central government is developing a comprehensive online portal to boost the country’s position as a global healthcare destination. Prataprao Jadhav, MoS (Independent Charge), Ayush & Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, said that the new digital platform will integrate hospitals, facilitators, travel agents, hotels, translators, and other support services in one place.

Jonathan Heastie, Portfolio Director, Travel Sector, RX Global, said, “India is witnessing the second highest outbound growth after China. It has experienced an increase of 12%, impacting Asia’s outbound market. However, China remains the dominant source market for the Asia-Pacific region, with over 130 million travellers, followed by the USA and Germany.”

GRT Hotels & Resorts hosted a vibrant meet in the capital, bringing together key players from the fraternity for an evening of networking, knowledge sharing, and partnership building. The event witnessed participation from some of the most respected names in the industry, reinforcing GRT’s commitment to strengthening its travel trade relationships across the country. The gathering showcased GRT Hotels’ expanding portfolio and innovative experiences across South India, with special emphasis on its award-winning resorts and urban escapes. Guests were also given exclusive updates on new offerings, signature experiences, and the brand’s vision for the year ahead. Speaking on the occasion, Vikram Cotah, CEO, GRT Hotels & Resorts, said: “Our travel trade partners have been integral to our growth journey. Events like these allow us to reconnect, exchange ideas, and explore new possibilities together. At GRT Hotels & Resorts, we believe in creating not just stays but stories – and our partners help us take those stories far and wide.”

Air Astana launched its first-ever non-stop flight service connecting Kazakhstan’s Almaty with India’s financial capital, Mumbai. Operated using the airline’s Airbus A320 aircraft, the route marks a significant milestone in strengthening air connectivity between Central Asia and India. This launch also coincides with the airline’s 20th anniversary in India, celebrating two decades of bridging people, cultures, and commerce.

IHCL signed the SeleQtions hotel in Anjuna, Goa, a conversion of a standalone resort with expansion of inventory to 51 keys. The hotel will offer an array of culinary experiences, including an all-day dining restaurant, a speciality restaurant, and a cocktail bar. Guests can unwind with a range of recreational amenities such as a swimming pool and a well-equipped gym.

As India becomes the third-largest domestic aviation market in the world, Mumbai is all set to host the Inter Passenger Terminal Show (IPTS 2025) at the Bombay Exhibition Centre on 11-12 June. The global debut of the event will showcase cutting-edge airport infrastructure and passenger experiences.

RateGain, in its latest ‘State of Car Rental’ report, revealed that 64% of operators rely heavily on competitor pricing, indicating reactive strategies and limited internal forecasting capabilities. Only 12% of operators actively use AI-driven pricing, it added.  

PATA in its new report, ‘The Evolving Tourism Workforce: Human Capital Development in APAC’ emphasised a critical need for better collaboration between the public and private sectors, as well as between academia and industry, particularly in preparing youth to enter the workforce with realistic expectations and future-ready skills.

According to new research from MakeMyTrip, 69% Indian travellers expressed their willingness to choose destinations that actively promote responsible travel, with an emphasis on local sustainability initiatives. Deep Kalra, Founder & Chairman, MMT & Chairman, WTTCII, said, “The Market is ready, the challenge now is for the industry to provide the products and services that meet demand.”

Jonathan Heastie, Portfolio Director, Travel Sector, RX Global, said, “An upcoming ATM report sees an emerging middle-class in Asia, expected to comprise 24% of the global population by 2030. India is predicted to add 9 million households. Middle East remains a top choice due to religious, cultural and commercial ties.”