Celebrating its 30 years of diplomatic relations with India, South African Tourism held a Press Meet in New Delhi. During the address, Patricia de Lille, Minister of Tourism, South Africa, announced the launch of a new digital Entry Travel Agreement (ETA) system to boost tourism ties with India. The move will replace the existing e-visa programme to simplify and expedite the visa application process. She said they have cut down extra documentation required for the visa application to three international documents across South African missions. She further revealed that mass visa processing for group travellers will now be made possible via a recently gazetted Trusted Tourist Tour Operator System Scheme that is primarily targeted at the Chinese and Indian markets. So far, 23 Indian tour operators have applied for this program in its first phase, demonstrating the positive response it has already received. The system will take effect on 20 January 2025. Highlighting that air connectivity remains a challenge for Indian tourists, Patricia de Lille, Minister of Tourism, South Africa, said, “We will be meeting Indian carriers, including Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet to explore possibilities of direct flight between India and South Africa as we currently lack any direct route.” The session was focused on economic growth and strategic collaboration, delving into the future travel outlook, India-focused initiatives, and key insights to shape and strengthen outbound Indian travel to South Africa.

To provide a glimpse into the spiritual essence of Prayagraj, the host city for the upcoming Mahakumbh 2025, Uttar Pradesh Tourism has organised a ‘Mahakumbh 2025 Prelude’ in New Delhi. Scheduled to be held from 14 January to 26 February 2025 in Prayagraj, the event is expected to draw over 40 crore devotees from across the globe. The event was graced by Union Minister of Tourism and Culture, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Uttar Pradesh’s Minister of Tourism and Culture, Jaiveer Singh and dignitaries from various ministries, ambassadors, and high commissioners from several countries, along with senior officials from the central and state governments. Addressing the event, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Tourism Minister, Govt of India, said, “We see the Mahakumbh as an opportunity for cultural exchange.” He invited global tourists to experience the world’s largest spiritual gathering by saying “If you wish to explore India, come to Mahakumbh.” Highlighting the festival’s inclusivity and diverse offerings, Jaiveer Singh, Tourism Minister, Uttar Pradesh, said, “We aim to offer something for everyone at Mahakumbh 2025, whether it’s heritage walks, water sports, or helicopter rides.” The event’s primary objective was to highlight the cultural, spiritual, and infrastructural preparations underway for this iconic gathering.

South Star Rail won the ‘Best Domestic Tour Operator- Private Trains’ award at the India Travel Awards. Its Chariman, Jose Charles Martin received the award. Registered service provider under the ‘Bharat Gaurav Scheme’, South Star Rail is India’s first private train service provider where users can book and share their tickets through its mobile app.

Bobby KS Sawhney, General Secretary, Indian Tourist Transporters Association (ITTA), said, “The theme for this year’s convention, scheduled for 20–21 December in New Delhi, is ‘Driving Excellence: Upgrading Transport for a Sustainable & Brighter Tomorrow’. The event aims to provide a platform for suppliers to showcase their products and services to tourist transport operators.”

Addressing the 12th ITM in Kaziranga, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Tourism, GoI, said, “Northeast region has welcomed over 125 lakh domestic tourists in 2023, a significant increase from 70 lakh tourists in 2014. He attributed this surge to rapid infrastructural development in the region, including improved transportation networks, enhanced tourism facilities, and the development of new tourist sites.”

Amadeus latest Travel Trend report highlighted that from nostalgia-driven vacations to personalised flying experiences, Asia is set to regain its position as a global tourism leader in 2025, with inbound and outbound travel predicted to match or exceed pre-pandemic levels. Countries in the region are leveraging their cultural appeal and relaxed travel regulations to attract international visitors.

Airocity visas won the ‘India’s Most Promising B2B Service Provider’ award at the India Travel Awards. Accepting the award, Lalit Rajput, Co-Founder and Director, Airocity Holidays, said, “It is a truly unique and innovative event that means a lot to us. We had a fantastic time here, and winning the award was like a dream come true.”

Pradeep Shetty, Vice President, FHRAI, said, “Delinking F&B rates from accommodation tariffs will empower the industry to adjust pricing based on market dynamics and customer demand, fostering growth across all segments. It will also streamline tax compliance, ensuring a win-win for both the industry and government revenues.”

Sunil Kumar, President, Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), said, “We will be launching a tax cell which would be a kind of a handholding for our members on matters in the areas of GST and TCS. A committee has been formed and is already working towards launching this cell. Our efforts to build bridges and deepen relations with the airlines are also underway.”

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