Nikhil Jeet, Director, DDP Group, has been recognised as the ‘PATA Face of the Future in Leadership’ in Bangkok. He pioneered COVID eLearn, training over 2,000 travel agents, and India’s first digital travel conclaves. His initiatives evolved into sustainable digital ecosystems, fostering inclusivity while mentoring young professionals and supporting underrepresented communities.

Yousuf Khalaf Al Mujaizi, Assistant Director, Business Development Department, Ministry of Heritage & Tourism, Oman, said, “We are positioning Oman as a high-end destination. The country welcomed over 600,000 Indian arrivals in 2024, marking 40% growth over 2019, with ambitions to reach one million visitors through stakeholder collaboration in the coming years.”

The Hotel Association of India (HAI) welcomed the Prime Minister’s consideration of rationalising GST, calling it vital for global competitiveness. The association urged a 5% tax rate with input credit across hospitality and tourism. The reform, it said, will enhance India’s appeal and support the 2047 goal of 100 million foreign arrivals.

Speaking at the 40th IATO Convention in Odisha’s Puri, Suman Billa, Additional Secretary and Director General Tourism, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, said, “India needs three times the current number of hotel rooms to meet future demand. Unless we are able to unlock that and push the needle, it is going to be a challenge.”

Airocity Visas has expanded its presence with the launch of a new branch in Chennai. Established in 2016, it has emerged as a trusted name in the travel industry for visa consultancy services. Headquartered in Delhi, the company also operates major branch offices in Mumbai and Chennai, India’s key metropolitan hubs.

Tourism Australia has launched the second phase of its successful ‘Come and Say G’day’ campaign in India. “The initiative, tailored for Indian cultural nuances, highlights immersive travel experiences designed to attract Indian holidaymakers,” said Nishant Kashikar, Country Manager – India & Gulf, Tourism Australia.

The 2nd edition of the Tamil Nadu Travel Expo (TTE) will be held from 26–28 September in Madurai to redefine the tourism landscape of the event. The event aims to connect global buyers with around 400 state stakeholders, driving tourism growth and boosting Tamil Nadu’s international visibility.

The 25th WTTC Global Summit is all set to be held from 28–30 September in Rome, featuring influential global leaders. Indian speakers include Puneet Chhatwal, CEO, IHCL, Zubin Karkaria, CEO, VFS Global and Gaurav Bhatnagar, Co-Founder, TBO.

India and China have agreed to resume direct flight connectivity between the Chinese mainland and India at the earliest and finalise an updated Air Services Agreement. Both sides had positive, constructive and forward-looking discussions during the meeting on bilateral, regional and international issues of common interest.

Sandeep Dwivedi, Managing Director – Travel Sellers, India & the Subcontinent, Amadeus, said, “We have joined hands with Balmer Lawrie to transform travel management in India. Our advanced solutions will empower Balmer Lawrie to enhance customer experiences with greater efficiency, broader choice and continuous innovation.”