Category Archives: Breaking News (All Categories)

Manohar International Airport, developed and operated by GMR Goa International Airport Ltd., has been honored with the prestigious Build India Infra Awards 2025 for Sustainability in the Civil Aviation Sector. The award was presented by Shri Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Hon’ble Minister for Civil Aviation, at a ceremony held at The Ashoka Hotel, New Delhi. The event was supported by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways & the Ministry of Civil Aviation . An IGBC Platinum-certified airport & on the path of being carbon-neutral, Manohar International Airport was recognized for its rigorous implementation of sustainability best practices aimed at conserving natural resources and reducing its environmental footprint. The airport integrates multiple energy-efficient measures, including the use of LED lighting across all buildings and Airfield Ground Lighting systems. Additionally, Ground Handling Equipment and buses operate on electric power. Onsite 5 MWp Solar PV generation unit is installed at the airport to supply electric power to the airport. To curb Greenhouse Gas emissions, GGIAL has deployed Fixed Electrical Ground Power and Pre-Conditioned Air systems at the airport to minimize the reliance on Auxiliary Power Units of aircraft and bridge-mounted equipment. Moreover, a Fuel Hydrant System has been implemented for aircraft refuelling, eliminating the need for fuel bowser movement on airside. The airport has an advanced rainwater harvesting system comprising of Inline rainwater harvesting pits in the storm water drain and three recharge ponds, which recharges up to 30% of harvested rainwater during the monsoon season. Speaking on this occasion, Mr. R. V. Sheshan, CEO of GGIAL, said: “Sustainability is one of the core values of GMR Group’s culture. Best sustainable practices were embedded in this airport from the planning and design …

René de Monchy, Chief Executive, Tourism New Zealand, said, “India is one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing markets, with holiday visitor numbers experiencing double-digit growth. We are focused on enhancing our commercial ties through improved connectivity and high-impact campaigns.” Meanwhile, O and Air New Zealand signed an MoU to explore the potential for direct connectivity.

Highlighting that an India Tourism Stack can establish India as the world’s most seamless and digitally advanced travel destination, Suman Billa, Additional Secretary, MOT, said, “It is time for policymakers, industry leaders, and digital innovators to come together and build the India Tourism Stack — a public good that can catalyse inclusive economic growth and elevate India’s global tourism stature.”

Mugdha Sinha, Director General, Ministry of Tourism said that the country is likely to witness its next peak in foreign tourist arrivals in 2028-2029. She added that over the next three years, the government is investing ₹120 billion ($1.4 billion) in developing infrastructure creating only alternative and detour destinations.

Keeping with its new campaign, ‘Starring Great Britain,’ VisitBritain will conduct an exclusive webinar showcasing handpicked luxury experiences for the ultimate British journey across London, England, Wales, and Scotland, focusing on luxury and culture in 2025. Join the webinar on 24 March at 3 pm to learn more. For more information, write to jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or 9650196532.

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has assured that while technology-driven solutions like DigiYatra and web check-in enhance efficiency, the manual check-in system remains fully operational, ensuring a seamless experience for all passengers, including those without smartphones or those who prefer manual processes.

The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India is all geared up to organise its second edition of Tourism Sustainability Summit 2025 on 26 March in New Delhi. The platform is focused on advancing sustainability into mainstream tourism and hospitality. The day-long event will see Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat as the Chief Guest. It will also have panel discussions focusing on key topics.

Rajiv Mehra, President, IATO in the recent luncheon meeting before the elections, expressed gratitude to members for their trust and support. He reflected on his 30-year association with IATO, from joining in 1995 to serving as Vice President and then President. Mehra expressed gratitude for members’ trust, highlighting key milestones like expanding membership beyond 2,000 and securing special hotel rates for small agents. He praised IATO’s transformation into a pan-India association and acknowledged industry and government support. Assuring continued dedication, Mehra welcomed new leadership, confident in IATO’s future growth.

Europamundo Vacaciones is now geared to take bookings till 2027 March with the launch of its new 2025-27 brochure, a catalogue featuring more than 140 pages of carefully designed itineraries that offer travellers authentic and flexible experiences. Besides offering special deals for children up to the age of 15, Europamundo continues to offer discounts to seniors, honeymooners and single travellers. The newly released brochure also includes river cruises, allowing agents to plan long term. Europamundo’s website and app booking are exclusive to agents. Europamundo’s focus is now more regional. There are many programmes covering solo countries as well like solo France, Germany, Italy and the UK. Poland is a new destination added to its circuits.

Los Angeles Tourism is hosting a series of webinars for the travel trade starting from today at 3pm IST, showcasing latest tourism offerings. Participate in the quiz to gain valuable tourism insights and updates and stand a chance to win prizes. For more information or to register, please contact Jaspreet Kaur at jaspreet.kaur@ddppl.com or 9650196532.