‘’The Union Budget 2025 marks a significant step in supporting the sustained growth of India’s aviation sector. We commend the government’s commitment to infrastructure which will make air travel more accessible, thereby boosting tourism and the economy on the whole. Aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, this focus on aviation strengthens India’s position as a global hub, ensuring greater mobility for all and contributing to a more connected, inclusive nation. As India’s fastest-growing airline, we applaud the government’s continued efforts to fuel the sector’s growth and make air travel accessible to a greater number of Indians.’’

Encalm Hospitality, a leader in premium airport hospitality, has taken airport experiences to new heights with the launch of its exclusive airside lounge Encalm Privé at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Shamshabad. Strategically located on the Mezzanine level of the International Departures terminal, the premium lounge offers travelers a seamless and premium environment to relax, recharge, and refresh before embarking on their journeys. Spanning around 885 square meters, the lounge offers a wealth of amenities tailored to meet the needs of the modern traveler, all available 24/7. Guests can enjoy a range of world-class facilities in the airside lounge, including spacious seating areas, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a variety of dining options to cater to every travellers need. Culinary offerings take center stage, with an array of gourmet food options ranging from international cuisines to local delicacies, ensuring something for every palate. Live cooking stations allow guests to enjoy freshly prepared meals tailored to their tastes, while the Grab n Go counter offers quick bites for travelers with tight schedules. A full-service bar enhances the experience, offering a wide selection of premium spirits and expertly crafted cocktails. Crafted for both convenience and comfort, the lounge features shower facilities, perfect for revitalizing between long-haul flights, as well as a serene spa where guests can relax and rejuvenate with a variety of soothing treatments. At Encalm Hospitality, our objective is to create exceptional travel spaces that cater to the evolving needs of today’s travelers,” said Vikas Sharma, Chief Executive Officer of Encalm Hospitality Pvt. Ltd. “The launch of the Encalm Privé at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad marks a significant milestone in our journey to provide personalized, efficient, and luxurious experiences …

Moscow has signed an agreement to begin cooperation with India’s largest tour operator, Thomas Cook India Group, at a trade show in Mumbai. The capital of Russia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with India’s largest tour operator, Thomas Cook India Group, at the international tourism trade show OTM in Mumbai. The agreement marks the beginning of active co-operation with the Indian side in the field of tourism. The document is primarily aimed at promoting Moscow as a key destination for leisure and business tourism in the Indian market, which the authorities of the Russian capital consider a priority market. Under the agreement, the parties plan to strengthen cooperation through the exchange of knowledge and best practices. They will also work on increasing awareness among the Indian tourism industry about Moscow’s tourism and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) potential, and developing new travel products that are tailored to Indian travellers. “The Indian tour operator expressed interest in bringing its clients to Moscow this spring as part of a familiarization trip. The MoU was signed at the trade show, after we had agreed to organize a special presentation of Moscow as a tourist destination for Thomas Cook India Group and its clients, particularly in the MICE segment,” – said Evgeny Kozlov, First Deputy Head of the Office of the Mayor and the Government of Moscow, Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee. According to him, Thomas Cook India Group representatives expressed their interest in promoting Moscow in the Indian market at the Meet Global MICE Congress: BRICS Edition, which took place in Moscow in December 2024. “The Thomas Cook India Group team are big fans of Moscow, and are considered …

Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center is excited to announce the elevation of Swapnil Nandurkar as the new Director of Sales. With over 14 years of distinguished experience in the hospitality industry, Swapnil has been an integral member of the hotel’s leadership team, having previously served as the Associate Director of Sales. His extensive career includes roles at prominent global brands such as Taj Hotels Palaces Resorts Safaris, Mumbai & Hyderabad, JW Marriott Pune, where he has consistently demonstrated a passion for excellence, innovation, and business growth. Swapnil’s contributions to Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield have been instrumental in driving revenue growth, identifying new business opportunities, setting and achieving sales targets, and fostering strong client relationships. His strategic insights, combined with a deep understanding of the hospitality sector, have significantly strengthened the hotel’s position within a competitive market. Before his tenure at Sheraton, Swapnil’s was a part of Sales & Marketing team at Taj Lands End, Mumbai, set new benchmarks for excellence, further cementing his reputation as an industry leader. In his new role as Director of Sales, Swapnil will oversee all aspects of the hotel’s sales strategy. He will be responsible for budgeting, forecasting, and developing initiatives that enhance brand awareness and the hotel’s overall commercial performance. Under his leadership, Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield aims to solidify its position as a market leader, increasing market share and continuing its commitment to delivering exceptional service and experiences to guests. “We are thrilled to announce Swapnil’s elevation to Director of Sales,  said Sanjay Gupta, General Manager at Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center. “His deep industry knowledge, leadership skills, and unwavering dedication to innovation are key factors that …

Following the resounding success of its inaugural edition, the Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE) is all set to return with its second edition. This premier travel and tourism event will take place from 26 – 28 February 2025, showcasing Karnataka as a vibrant and diverse global tourism hub. Sri H.K. Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Legislation, Tourism, Government of Karnataka, unveiled the KITE – 2025 logo along with brochures at the curtain-raiser event organized at Vidhana Soudha. Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, IAS, Chief Secretary, Government of Karnataka; Smt. Salma Fahim, IAS, Secretary, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka; Dr. K.V. Rajendra, IAS, Director, Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, and Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation; Mr. K. Syama Raju, President, Karnataka Tourism Society, along with the office bearers of KTS and other officials, were present on the occasion. Organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, and the ‘Karnataka Tourism Society,’ KITE 2025 promises to be a platform that brings together stakeholders from across the tourism and hospitality industries. The event aims to foster new partnerships, promote business opportunities, and spotlight Karnataka’s unique offerings, including its heritage, culture, adventure, wellness, and nature-based tourism. Key Highlights of KITE 2025: B2B Networking Opportunities: With over 400 hosted buyers from India and abroad and with over 150 stakeholders from Karnataka, KITE 2025 ensures impactful interactions for trade and industry professionals. Showcasing Karnataka’s Treasures: Dedicated pavilions will highlight Karnataka’s iconic destinations, emerging circuits, and sustainable tourism initiatives. Cultural Extravaganza: Evening programs celebrating Karnataka’s art, music, and cuisine. Speaking about the event, Sri HK Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, law and Parliament Affairs, Govt. of Karnataka, said, “Karnataka is home …

The Bird Education Society for Travel & Tourism (Bird Academy), a leader in career oriented aviation training, skilling and placements since over 27 years, has been accredited as an Aviation Security Training Institute by the Directorate General, Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India. This prestigious accreditation authorizes Bird Academy to conduct BCAS-endorsed Aviation Security training programs, including: AvSec Induction Training (5 Days) AvSec Basic Training (14 Days) AvSec Basic Refresher Training (3 Days) Conducted as per the National Civil Aviation Security Training Programme, these programs are designed to prepare aviation security personnel with critical skills, ensuring the highest industry standards. Mr. R.N. Choubey, IAS congratulated Team Bird Academy through a video message and said, “The launch of ASTI marks a significant milestone, not just for Bird Group but for the entire aviation security ecosystem in India. Known for their unmatched standards in the aviation sector, the Bird Group is now poised to set new benchmarks in training and innovation. Under the visionary leadership of Mrs. Radha Bhatia and her dedicated team, I am confident that ASTI, Bird Academy will not only stand out as a center of excellence but will soon rise to be the premier aviation security training institute in the country, serving as a model for others to emulate. This initiative will undoubtedly strengthen our nation’s aviation security framework and inspire a new era of professional excellence.” Mr. M.T. Baig, Senior Advisor, Aviation Security, Bird Group inspired the batch of students present there with his experiences and shared that nowadays private security agencies are being deployed at the airports to perform non-core aviation security functions and access control duties at the entry …

Pullman and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity are excited to announce the appointment of Mr. Uday Bhatnagar as the new Director of Revenue Management. With an expansive career in hospitality revenue optimization and a proven track record of success across various regions, he brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the team. Uday joins the Pullman and Novotel family from his previous role as Director of Revenue Management at Novotel Goa Resort & Spa, Novotel Goa Candolim & Novotel Goa Panjim. His expertise in strategic pricing, yield management, and demand forecasting has been instrumental in maximizing revenue and profit at several Accor properties. Mr Bhatnagar has been known for his innovative approach to disrupting industry norms and introducing data-driven solutions that drive operational success. In his new role, he will be responsible for managing the revenue strategies for both Pullman and Novotel properties at Aerocity, optimizing room inventory, pricing, and function space management. He will also spearhead the execution of strategic plans for established and new hotels, ensuring seamless integration across all hotel functions. Uday’s professional journey in the hospitality sector spans over a decade, with key leadership roles in revenue management, where he has consistently delivered exceptional results. His accomplishments include being honored as the “Accor RM Person of the Year 2018” for India and South Asia, and publishing a research paper on the impact of TripAdvisor on hotel reservation intentions. He holds an MBA in Hospitality & Tourism Management from Laureate University in Bangkok and a BBA from GGSIP University, New Delhi. “We are thrilled to welcome Uday to our team,” said Sunaina Manerkar, Resident Manager of Pullman and Novotel New Delhi Aerocity. “His dynamic approach to revenue …

Moscow is all set to captivate audiences at the OTM International Tourism Exhibition in Mumbai from January 30 to February 1, 2025. Over three days, the Russian capital will present the best it can offer in cultural, leisure, and business tourism. The Moscow stand will host over 500 key business meetings and negotiations during the event, connecting Moscow’s tourism sector representatives with their Indian counterparts. Experts from Moscow will present the city’s flagship projects, including the Moscow Tea Time Project that introduces visitors to Moscow tea traditions which are being restored nowadays, the Moscow Estates Festival, an iconic cultural event that attracts more than 100,000 tourists and citizens annually, the Moscow Gastronomy Project, the City of Discoveries educational project and RUSSPASS travel planning service. Joint projects include the Moscow+ Project, which fosters collaborative tourism across Russian regions — notably the Tyumen region with its Visit Tyumen Project. Moreover, in collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Development of Russia, Moscow’s Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development, and the Department of Culture, the Moscow exposition will showcase the city’s export potential, alongside Discover Russia and Made in Moscow brands. Additionally, the stand will showcase key attractions like the VDNH Complex, blending Soviet-era architectural wonders with modern interactive museums, and Moskino Cinema Park that is already gaining attention from the Indian film industry for its potential as a filming destination. Moscow will also feature six leading tour operators, including Headed Goose, Tari Tour, Volshebny Tour, FUN & SUN, INTOURIST, Academservice, and three hotels: the Swissôtel Krasnye Holmy, VEGA Hotel & Convention Center and Izmailovo Hotel Complex. They will cooperatively highlight the diverse range of services available to Indian travelers, from luxurious stays to …

National Tourism Day ‘25 is an opportunity to celebrate India’s incredible journey in travel and tourism while welcoming the future with renewed aspirations. As Indian travellers increasingly venture beyond borders and explore global destinations, Mrs. Jyoti Mayal, CEO of Redhat Communications and Chairperson of the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council , highlights how the World Travel & Tourism Festival 2025 will set the stage for a more empowered and inclusive tourism industry. Scheduled from February 14 to 16, 2025, at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, India Gate, the festival represents a landmark collaboration between TV9 Network and Redhat Communications. This one-of-its-kind event aims to bring the entire travel and tourism ecosystem together, from industry leaders to grassroots entrepreneurs, while creating immersive and memorable experiences for attendees. Spanning over 45,000 sq. ft., the festival offers an unparalleled immersive experience with personalized travel consultations, expert-led talks, and extensive networking opportunities with industry leaders. The event features a top music concert, cultural performances, a food zone, travel tech showcase, competitions, and more. Reflecting on the significance of this year’s National Tourism Day, Mrs. Mayal remarked, “Tourism is not confined to discovering new places. It is also about connecting hearts, instilling understanding, and driving economic growth. With India’s tourism sector on the cusp of a new era, the World Travel & Tourism Festival 2025 will provide an unparalleled platform to celebrate, collaborate, and innovate.” The festival is set to redefine how travel is experienced and celebrated. From cultural performances that showcase India’s heritage and global traditions to travel technology exhibits that highlight the role of innovation in transforming the travel experience, the event will explore every facet of the industry. Attendees will also …

In the national capital New Delhi, Bharat Parv 2025 is set to take place from January 26 to 31 in the historic Red Fort premises. Madhya Pradesh’s impressive pavilion is poised to be a major highlight of this six-day cultural extravaganza, organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Principal Secretary Tourism, Culture and Religious Trusts & Endowments Department and Managing Director Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, said “Bharat Parv is a grand celebration of India’s cultural diversity, and Madhya Pradesh is proud to be a key participant. Through our pavilion, we aim to offer a deep and authentic experience of our state’s heritage, culture, and tourism potential.” The Madhya Pradesh pavilion will be a harmonious reflection of the state’s deep-rooted spirituality, cultural essence, and artisanal brilliance. A dedicated information center will highlight the state’s iconic spiritual destinations, including the sacred Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga in Ujjain, Omkareshwar Temple, and the tranquil Sanchi Stupa, offering a journey into its profound spiritual heritage. The pavilion will also showcase GI-tagged products and One District One Product specialties, providing visitors a glimpse into the craftsmanship that embodies the spiritual and cultural ethos of Madhya Pradesh. Adding to the charm, the pavilion will host live cultural performances by the renowned Janki Band, which will bring the state’s folk traditions to life. A food court featuring Madhya Pradesh’s authentic local delicacies, such as poha-jalebi, Gwalior ki Bedai Poori, Morena kiGhaz, Indori Kees Kachori and many more, will not only be open for sale but will also include live kitchen demonstrations showcasing the preparation of the iconic dishes such as Garadu Chaat and Khopra Patties on the 30th. Additionally, a handicraft and handloom stall …