Category Archives: Associations

WTTC’s Together in Travel initiative has spotlighted a powerful shift in Indian tourism—women-led travel businesses are leading a new era of innovation and inclusivity. WTTC calls this movement a ‘game-changer’ for tourism’s future, driving not only economic empowerment but also a more diverse and resilient sector ready to meet evolving traveller needs.

MP Bezbaruah, General Secretary, Hotel Association of India (HAI), highlighted India’s tourism infrastructure gap, citing a need for 4 lakh branded rooms and 2.8 million non-branded units. He urged the government to develop a long-term, capital-intensive accommodation policy looking ahead to 2047. He emphasised that while the industry will build it, policy support is crucial for encouragement and growth.

At OTOAI’s 6th Annual Convention in Moscow, Himanshu Patil, President, OTOAI, said, “The way technology is changing rapidly, travel industry must adapt to these changes. Otherwise, it would be tough to compete with the big giants. In today’s world of social media, technology will help the members to sell Russia in a better way.”

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.