Category Archives: Associations

India’s rising influence in global tourism was spotlighted at the 54th Skal Asia Congress, held in Colombo, Sri Lanka recently, as Padmashri Dr. Mukesh Batra, President of Skal International South Mumbai, was honoured with two prestigious Asian Awards. The recognition celebrates the chapter’s outstanding contributions to tourism leadership, sustainability, and collaborative growth, reinforcing India’s expanding footprint on the world tourism map. Themed around “Unity, Leadership, and Transformational Tourism,” the Congress brought together over 275 delegates from 19 countries, including dignitaries such as Skål International President Denise Scrafton, Skål Asia President – Keethi Jayaweera, Skål Colombo President -Ahintha Amarasinghe, Congress Chairperson – Sharmili Vaz, and Skål India National President – Sanjeev Mehra. Skål International Mumbai South received: • 1st Runner-Up for Highest Growth in Numbers • 2nd Runner-Up for Highest Percentage Growth These awards honour the Mumbai chapter’s dynamic expansion and increasing member engagement over the past year. Receiving the award, Dr. Batra said, “It was an honour to accept two Asian Awards on behalf of the Skal Club. This recognition comes at a critical time when tourism is evolving toward sustainability, community engagement, and ethical growth. This is a collective recogniton, and I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all our members who have worked tirelessly to make this possible.” He also took the opportunity to invite delegates from across the globe to visit Mumbai at the Skål India National Congress 2025 in Mumbai to be hosted by Skal Mumbai South. India had a strong presence at the Congress with over 120 delegates representing 13 clubs, demonstrating Skal India’s growing influence. Other Indian clubs were also recognised at the Congress, but Skål Mumbai South received two awards, underscoring its performance and …

Enterprising Travel Agents Association (ETAA) South Chapter has announced its newly elected committee for 2025–2026. Chairman and Regional Director is Joyson, Vice Chairperson is Princy K.D, Secretary is Dinesh, and Treasurer is Vimalesh. The new chairman plans to host an event in Bengaluru every alternate month and take ETAA events to tier 2 cities as well.

Stating that overcrowding is straining destinations, WTTC addresses overcrowding in its latest report titled Managing Destination Overcrowding and urges public and private stakeholders to adopt a proactive, evidence-based approach to sustainable tourism management. The paper outlines six key actions for this that includes reinvesting in destination health and implementing robust monitoring and early warning systems.

The event served as a vibrant platform for industry leaders, hotel owners, restaurateurs and professionals from across the western region to collaborate, share insights and recognize excellence in hospitality leadership. The event commenced with an inaugural session graced by Chief Guest – Shri Mohamed Farouk, Regional Director (Western Region), India Tourism Mumbai, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. The conclave also featured thought provoking sessions led by prominent voices in policy, sustainability, food safety and operations. “The 5th edition of the Empowering Hospitality Conclave and Awards is not just a celebration of achievement; it is a reaffirmation of our industry’s resilience and commitment to progress. The hospitality sector has demonstrated remarkable grit during the pandemic and is now embracing a new era of growth powered by innovation, collaboration and forward-looking policies. This platform is a testament to the incredible talent, dedication and dynamism that define our fraternity. Today, we not only honour excellence but also strengthen the dialogue that will shape the future of Indian hospitality,” says Mr Chetan Mehta, Vice President, HRAWI. Opening the conclave on a congratulatory note, Shri Mohamed Farouk underscored the sector’s role in nation building. “It is a privilege to be part of the 5th edition of HRAWI’s ‘Empowering Hospitality’ Conclave, a platform that brings together some of the most visionary minds in the western region’s hospitality sector. The hospitality industry is not just a key driver of tourism; it is the first impression of India for many visitors. This industry’s services reflect the warmth, culture and professionalism of our nation. As India charts its course on the global tourism map, I urge the industry to focus on inclusive growth, accessible tourism, technological innovation and …

Skål International’s 2025 World President, Denise Scrafton made a powerful and symbolic visit to India, a first in many years, reaffirming India’s rising prominence in the global Skål movement. Her presence inspired renewed energy and deeper alignment across clubs, with a focus on future leadership, sustainability, youth engagement, and international cooperation. “India is fast becoming a vital force in global tourism and an emerging powerhouse within Skål. It’s time we lead today to shape a stronger tomorrow — together,” said Denise Scrafton, echoing her presidential theme and setting the tone for her impactful journey. NSN Mohan, Deputy Vice President of Skål International and Director of Region 10 (India), who accompanied her throughout the journey added, “Denise’s visit comes at a time when Skål India (Region 10) is evolving into a mission-driven force in global tourism. We are focused on collaboration, youth engagement, sustainability, and responsible tourism — values that align beautifully with her leadership vision.” Sanjeev Mehra, President of Skål International India, shared, “Her presence energized our movement and inspired our clubs. We are proud of the momentum we’re building — launching new clubs, driving inclusive leadership, broadcasting powerful and meaningful communications. India is on the path to becoming Skål’s top-performing nation. With 91 years of legacy, Skål International stands as the world’s largest and oldest organisation of tourism and hospitality professionals. Remarkably, three of its top ten clubs globally — Delhi, Chennai, and Kolkata —are proudly from India.” Ms. Scrafton, who joined Skål in 2002, has held every major leadership role — from President of Skål International Melbourne and Skål International Australia to President of the Skål International Council and now World President. She pioneered the Membership Development Fund …

Asego has been appointed as the official travel protection partner for the 6th OTOAI Convention 2025 in Moscow. Offering comprehensive coverage to all delegates, the company ensures peace of mind for travel trade professionals. This collaboration underscores Asego’s commitment to supporting the industry with smart, reliable travel protection as stakeholders gather to shape the future of tourism.

Skål Delhi has become the world’s largest Skål club. Sanjeev Mehra, President, Skål International India, announced plans to expand from 19 to 36 clubs, covering every Indian state and union territory. With India now ranked second globally in Skål membership, just 15 members behind the USA, the goal is to strengthen tourism industry collaboration.

The Hotel And Restaurant Association (Western India) – HRAWI celebrated excellence at its 5th Empowering Hospitality Conclave & Awards on 26th June 2025 at Della Resorts & Adventures, Lonavala. Graced by Chief Guest Shri Mohamed Farouk – Regional Director (Western Region), India Tourism Mumbai, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, the event recognized pioneers reshaping Lonavala and Khandala’s hospitality and culinary identity through innovation, sustainability and leadership. Among the distinguished recipients was the Late Subhash Thakker, the pioneer behind Dukes Retreat, Khandala recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Maganlal & Sons, the iconic Lonavala Chikki brand founded in the 1880s at a railway cart, now a four-generation legacy of authentic taste and tradition, and Cooper’s Fudge & Chikkis, the family-run Lonavala institution since the 1950s were bestowed with Founder’s Excellence in Regional Cuisine. Jimmy Mistry (Della Group), the Creator of Sky Garden – India’s first levitating fine-dining experience 150 ft. above ground, was recognized with Innovation in Dining Award as well as with the Best Adventure Resorts Award for Della Adventure Park, which is India’s largest extreme adventure destination. Kishore Keswani MD & Founder of Kailash Parbat Hotel was recognized for his Outstanding Contribution in the hotels category. The award for the Best Iconic Hotel in Lonavala was bagged by the Fariyas Resort and The Fern – An Ecotel Hotel was awarded the Best Hotel in Lonavala. Rhythm Hospitality, the innovator of the ResiTel model was recognized as Best Boutique Resort in Lonavala while Mr Madhav Todi Director of Triose Boutique Hotel was awarded the Sustainable Hospitality Award for the championing of green practices including solar energy, zero plastic, rainwater harvesting and waste recycling. Ikshana Resort & Spa won the …

The OTOAI Convention is set to host its 6th edition in the vibrant city of Moscow. This prestigious event brings together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to shape the future of travel. Asego is proud to be a part of this illustrious gathering as OTOAI’s preferred Global Assistance and Travel Insurance partner, providing comprehensive travel protection to all delegates attending this convention. In today’s unpredictable travel environment, having a relevant travel protection solution is a vital safeguard against cancellations, booking disruptions, and unforeseen emergencies. For travel trade professionals who rely on seamless travel amidst their busy schedules, Asego’s protection offers crucial relief and peace of mind during their journeys. This underscores Asego’s commitment to supporting the travel trade with reliable and smart Travel protection solutions that keep the industry moving forward with confidence.

Expressing concern on the recent proposal to increase excise duty on liquor in Maharashtra, HRAWI in a letter to Ajit Pawar, Deputy CM & Minister of Finance & Excise, Maharashtra, said the proposed hike is expected to cause a sharp rise in the retail prices of alcoholic beverages reportedly between 14% to 60% across various categories, with the steepest increase in IMFL.