IndiGo has announced new domestic routes, establishing direct flight connections between Bhubaneswar and Dehradun, and Dehradun and Srinagar, effective 6 February, 2025. These additions to IndiGo’s network will improve connectivity and offer passengers a wider range of travel choices.

Expanding its presence in North India, ITC Hotels announced the opening 81-room Welcomhotel in Delhi. The hotel is conveniently located near Delhi Airport. It features modern amenities and expansive event spaces for weddings, social gatherings, and conferences.

According to Cirium, an aviation analytics firm, Indian airlines have seen a significant influx of new aircraft in 2024, with 97 deliveries already completed and 10 more expected. Alternatively, Cirium’s data suggests a slight decrease in 2025, with 86 new aircraft projected.

With passenger traffic steadily increasing at Indian airports, the Airport Authority of India (AAI) has significantly expanded aviation infrastructure and connectivity to meet the rising demand. Compared to the previous year, AAI has seen substantial growth, with a 6.7 per cent increase in aircraft movements and a 15 per cent jump in passenger numbers.

Evgeny Kozlov, Chairman, Moscow City Tourism Committee, informed that Russia aims to attract more Indians and MICE visitors. To do so they have already liberalised visa process and introduced e-visa. Russia aims to double tourism’s contribution to its GDP from 3.8 per cent to 10 per cent by 2030 by launching ‘Tourism and Hospitality’ project in 2025.

According to HVS Anarock’s ‘Occupancy Trends Across Key Indian Markets,’ all major cities saw a rise in occupancy rates in 2024 compared to previous year. Mumbai tops with over 80 per cent occupancy, driven by MICE events and high-profile gatherings like Dua Lipa’s concert. Pune recorded the highest growth, with a 12-14 percentage point increase.

Hemant Soren, Chief Minister, Jharkhand directed officials to prepare a blueprint for promoting eco-tourism in Jharkhand. With a forest cover of around 33 per cent, the state offers immense potential for eco-tourism activities such as forest trails, nature walks, jungle safaris, trekking and rock climbing, among others for adventure and nature enthusiasts.

Ravi Jain, Secretary, Tourism Rajasthan, said, “The state has allocated a budget of ₹5000 crore to promote cultural heritage and sustainable tourism, conserve heritage sites, and initiate new projects. Additionally, IIFA Awards 2025, scheduled for 7-9 March in Jaipur, will elevate state’s global appeal by promoting film tourism, local art and culture.

The annual “Neravu” distribution event, organised as part of the Asha Prakash Shetty Support Program, was held on 25 December at 3:30 PM at Goldfinch City, Mangalore. The event witnessed an overwhelming response, with several dignitaries and beneficiaries coming together to make the initiative a grand success. This year’s event was graced by Adamya Chetna Foundation chairperson, Tejaswini Ananth Kumar, who attended as the chief guest. Other prominent personalities present included Dr M Mohan Alva, President, Alva’s Education Foundation, Moodabidri; Gurme Suresh Shetty, MLA, Kappu; Gaurav P. Shetty, Managing Director, MRG Group; and Dr K Prakash Shetty, Founder & Chairman, MRG Group. Over six crores in assistance was distributed to 3000 families, benefiting approximately 15,000 individuals. The beneficiaries were carefully selected following a rigorous review of applications and verification of details to ensure the support reached the most deserving individuals and organisations. This year, the initiative prioritised those with mental disabilities, long-term illnesses requiring continuous treatment, physical disabilities, cancer, and other severe conditions. Assistance was also extended to individuals excelling in academics and sports or facing challenges in continuing education. Transport facilities for beneficiaries were arranged, with volunteers ensuring smooth execution. At the venue, 25 counters were set up for efficient distribution of assistance. Beneficiaries presented their pre-distributed tokens to receive their cheques at the counters. The well-coordinated efforts of volunteers ensured that the distribution process ran seamlessly without disruptions. The programme also supported organisations conducting impactful, community-focused initiatives, including maintaining cleanliness, empowering women, enabling youth, skill development, and promoting social transformation. Assistance for organisations ranged from ₹1,00,000 to ₹10,00,000, while individual beneficiaries received amounts between ₹10,000 and ₹1,00,000, depending on their specific needs. Medical cases formed a significant portion …

Crowne Plaza Kochi announced the appointment of Jerin Jose as Executive Housekeeper. With over 16 years of experience in housekeeping management, Jerin has worked with prestigious brands such as Hilton, Marriott, and The Rain Tree Hotels. His expertise spans quality assurance, inventory control, budgeting, and expense management, alongside strong skills in time management, communication, and team development. Jerin is recognised for achieving a perfect cleanliness score in his career. Dinesh Rai, General Manager, expressed excitement about his appointment, confident that Jerin’s leadership will elevate service standards. We welcome Jerin to the IHG family!