Hospitality & Tourism Conclave 2026 Highlights Eastern India’s Growing Role in India’s Tourism Economy

Direct bookings, technology integration and design-led ROI dominated discussions at the Hospitality & Tourism Conclave 2026, signalling a shift in how hotels in emerging markets plan growth.

Siliguri, January 2026: The Hospitality & Tourism Conclave 2026, held at ITC Fortune Select, Siliguri, concluded with two days of focused discussions on the future of hospitality and tourism in Eastern India. Organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the conclave drew hotel owners, founders, senior operators, developers, technology providers and industry stakeholders from across the country, underscoring the region’s growing relevance in India’s tourism landscape.

The conclave stood out for its practical, region-specific conversations, moving beyond headline optimism to address real operational, investment and scaling challenges. Across panels and keynotes, speakers reiterated that Eastern India’s tourism growth will be driven by long-term thinking, local context and collaborative ecosystems rather than rapid, imitation-led expansion.

A central voice throughout the conclave was Sumit Mitruka, Founder and CEO of Summit Hotels & Resorts and Chairman of the Hospitality & Tourism Committee at ICC. Through his keynote address and moderation of multiple sessions, Mitruka anchored discussions around sustainable hotel development, the importance of regional identity, and the need for owners, brands and solution providers to work in tandem. His experience of operating across the East and North-East brought a grounded perspective to conversations on destination-building and profitability in emerging markets.

Reflecting on the scale and participation at the conclave, Harsh Berlia, Chairman, ICC North Bengal, said, “The ICC North Bengal Tourism and Hospitality Conclave 2026 saw a confluence of speakers from across the industry, coming together from around the country. This further strengthens our conviction that this region is among the fastest-growing hospitality markets. It was encouraging to see both brand owners and hotel owners actively engage through panels, meetings and site visits on the sidelines. We are hopeful that several discussions will translate into ongoing deals, and we look forward to an even larger gathering next year.”

One of the most engaging sessions, “From the East to the Nation: Building Scalable, Iconic Hospitality Brands,” examined how regional brands can grow without losing their core identity. Speakers highlighted the risks of adopting metro-driven templates and stressed the importance of building brands rooted in local culture, demand patterns and operating realities.

The conclave also featured keynote addresses by industry leaders such as Harshavardhan Neotia, Chairman of Ambuja Neotia Group, who spoke on institution-building and responsible tourism development, and Vikram Challur, Senior Vice President at MakeMyTrip, who shared insights on travel demand, distribution and evolving guest behaviour.

Other sessions explored direct bookings and digital funnels, hospitality technology and AI, design-led ROI, marketing storytelling and new-age hospitality formats. Delegates noted that the discussions were candid, actionable and relevant to real-world decision-making.

The two-day conclave saw participation from a cross-section of hospitality leaders and founders, including representatives from Summit Hotels & Resorts, Mayfair Hotels & Resorts, Radisson Hotel Group, Lemon Tree Hotels, Fortune Park Hotels, The Postcard Hotel, Elivaas, The Hosteller, Ambuja Neotia Group, Club Mahindra, Ascott, MakeMyTrip, Simplotel, Djubo, BookingJini, Yanolja Cloud Solution and Colliers, among others. The presence of both established hotel brands and new-age hospitality platforms reinforced the conclave’s focus on pragmatic growth and collaboration.

The exhibition zone and networking sessions saw strong engagement, with meaningful exchanges between solution providers and hospitality leaders. Many participants observed that the conclave successfully demonstrated Siliguri’s ability to host high-impact, national-level industry platforms.

The Hospitality & Tourism Conclave 2026 concluded with a shared sentiment: Eastern India’s hospitality story is entering a more confident, mature phase, shaped by collaboration, realism and a clear understanding of regional strengths.

5th North-East FoodTech 2026 Inaugurated in Guwahati, Showcasing Growth Potential of Food and Hospitality Sector

Over 80 National Companies, 7,000 Business Visitors Expected as Region’s Premier Food & Hospitality B2B Expo Opens 

Guwahati, January 2026: The 5th North-East FoodTech 2026, the region’s premier B2B exhibition for the Food, Bakery and Hospitality Industry, was formally inaugurated today at the Maniram Dewan Trade Centre, Guwahati, marking the beginning of a four-day industry-focused showcase of technology, innovation and business opportunities.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by Shri Sunil Deka, Chairman, Assam Trade Promotion Organisation, who attended the event as the Chief Guest, in the presence of industry stakeholders, exhibitors, hospitality professionals and representatives from trade associations.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Sunil Deka highlighted the growing importance of platforms such as North-East FoodTech in strengthening the regional economy. “The food and hospitality sector has significant potential to contribute to employment generation, entrepreneurship and value addition in the North-East. Exhibitions like the North-East FoodTech provide an important interface between local enterprises and national technology providers, helping the region integrate more strongly with India’s larger food industry ecosystem,” he said.

The exhibition brings together over 80 reputed companies from across India, showcasing advancements in food processing machinery, bakery and confectionery equipment, commercial kitchen systems, refrigeration and cold-chain infrastructure, packaging solutions, ingredients and food safety technologies.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Sunil Sarraf, President, Hotel & Restaurant Association of Assam (HRAA), said the event plays a critical role for hospitality and food service operators in the region. “For hotels, restaurants and food businesses in Assam and the North-East, access to new technology and industry expertise is essential to remain competitive. North-East FoodTech has consistently helped bridge this gap by bringing solutions, knowledge and networking opportunities closer to the region,” he said.

Mr. Migom Sarma, Secretary, HRAA, noted that the exhibition also supports skill enhancement and business modernisation. “Beyond product displays, the exhibition encourages learning, interaction and collaboration. Sessions, demonstrations and conclaves held alongside the exhibition are particularly useful for small and medium hospitality and bakery enterprises looking to upgrade operations,” he said.

Zakir Hossain, Chief Convener, North-East FoodTech, said the exhibition reflects the growing maturity of the region’s food and hospitality ecosystem. “North-East FoodTech was conceived as a focused B2B platform to connect the North-East with the best of food processing, bakery and hospitality technologies available nationally. Over the years, the response from exhibitors and buyers has reinforced the region’s readiness for modernisation, investment and scale. This exhibition is not just about showcasing machines or products, but about enabling enterprises, strengthening value chains and positioning the North-East as a serious growth market for the food industry,” he said.

One of the key components of this edition is the N-E Bakery Conclave 2026, scheduled during the exhibition, featuring expert sessions on modern bakery practices, plant operations, quality standards, branding and business scalability. The event will also host culinary showcases, live baking demonstrations and competitions, including programmes focused on regional flavours and professional skills.

The 5th North-East FoodTech 2026 is expected to attract around 7,000 business visitors from the North-East, Eastern India and neighbouring regions over the four days, reinforcing Guwahati’s position as an emerging hub for food processing, bakery and hospitality-related business activities.

Azerai La Residence, Hue Delves Deeper Into Local Cuisine With Special New Dishes

Executive Chef Nguyen Dong Hai was recently a finalist in the Gourmet Vietnam Awards

HUE, Vietnam January 2026 – Azerai La Residence, Hue has long been recognized as a culinary hotspot in central Vietnam, and its head chef Nguyen Dong Hai last year achieved the rare distinction of being named a “Master Culinary Artist of Vietnam.”

Chef Hai, who was recently named a finalist in the Gourmet Vietnam Awards presented by Epicure magazine, has now added several new local specialities to the menu at Azerai’s celebrated all-day dining restaurant Le Parfum.

New Vietnamese dishes on the new menu include Hue Royal-Style Braised Duck Leg, whose meat is braised in Minh Mang wine with goji berries, star anise, carrots, mushrooms and ginseng, and served with mung bean sticky rice; Hue Five-Spice Roasted Chicken with Turmeric Rice, featuring a roasted free-range chicken marinated in five local spices and honey, and served with shitake mushrooms, turmeric-scented rice and sauteed bok choy; and Hue Caramelized Pork & Prawn in a Clay Pot, served with sauteed broccoli and steamed rice.

Other new dishes include Thyme Semi-Smoked Japanese Wagyu Striploin A5, a steak cooked to perfection and served with pear potato, organic vegetables and yakiniku sauce; and Steamed YellowTail Kingfish with Black Bean Soy, served with sauteed mushrooms, carrots, onions, bok choy and glass noodles.

Chef Hai, who joined La Residence in 2005, has also been the visionary behind several of the hotel’s most iconic dining experiences, including “The Colonial Life,” a signature dining concept that blends Nguyen Dynasty imperial cuisine with refined French gastronomy, served in a nostalgic riverside setting evoking the charm of Indochina.

In 2017, he designed a “Majestic Menu” to honor the state visit of Their Majesties Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko of Japan, hosted by then-Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc. This exceptional menu – an elegant fusion of Hue’s imperial cuisine and global flavors – has since become one of Azerai La Residence, Hue’s most celebrated and best-selling culinary offerings.

Chef Hai’s talents over the years have captured the attention of numerous high-profile global guests, including the late TV host and author Anthony Bourdain, who stayed at La Residence in 2014 and praised Chef Hai’s cuisine, particularly his inventive rendition of the Vietnamese banh mi, now famously known as the “La Residence Banh Mi.”

With 122 elegantly furnished rooms and suites, Azerai La Residence, Hue is centered on a colonial mansion that was built in 1930 as part of the residence of the French Resident Superieur. The mansion’s distinctive façade, including its long horizontal lines and nautical flourishes, are hallmarks of the streamline moderne school of art deco architecture.

Azerai La Residence, Hue was recognized as one of Vietnam’s top 16 hotels for 2025 by The Times of London. The hotel is part of legendary hotelier Adrian Zecha’s latest portfolio, which also includes the beachfront Azerai Ke Ga Bay in southern Vietnam.

Professional Housekeepers Association and Karnataka Pest Management Association Sign MoU at Housekeeping Synergy 3.0

Bengaluru, January 2026: In a significant step towards strengthening industry collaboration and enhancing hygiene standards, the Professional Housekeepers Association (PHA) and the Karnataka Pest Management Association (KPMA) formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at a special knowledge-sharing program titled Housekeeping Synergy 3.0, held at Hotel Ramanashree, Bengaluru, on 17 January 2026.

The MoU marks a strategic partnership between the two associations aimed at fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, training initiatives, and the promotion of best practices to create cleaner, safer, and more sustainable environments across hospitality, healthcare, commercial, and institutional spaces.

Chief Guest Address

The program was graced by Mr. PK Mohankumar, Founder & CEO – Turnstone Hospitality LLP, who attended as the Chief Guest and lauded the initiative as timely and impactful. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Mohankumar said:

“Cleanliness and safety are no longer isolated functions; they are interdependent responsibilities. This MoU between the Professional Housekeepers Association and the Karnataka Pest Management Association reflects a progressive mindset and sets a benchmark for collaborative efforts that will benefit the industry and society at large.”

Panel Discussion

A key highlight of the event was an engaging panel discussion titled “Power of Collaboration: Redefining Clean and Safe Environments through Housekeeping and Pest Management Synergy”, moderated by Mr. Virender Razdan, Founder & CEO – Incode Hotels & Hospitality. The discussion brought together industry experts who deliberated on integrated approaches, compliance, innovation, and the critical role of coordination between housekeeping and pest management professionals.

Leaders’ Perspectives

• Mr. Ravichandra V, President – Karnataka Pest Management Association, stated:

  “This MoU is a milestone for our association. By aligning closely with housekeeping professionals, we can jointly develop holistic solutions that address hygiene, safety, and preventive care more effectively. Collaboration is the future, and this partnership is a step in that direction.”

• Mrs. Jayashree Nagaraj, Founder President & Chairperson – Professional Housekeepers Association, added:

  “Housekeeping today goes beyond aesthetics—it is about health, safety, and sustainability. Partnering with KPMA allows us to create stronger frameworks, shared learning platforms, and unified standards that will elevate the profession and deliver greater value to stakeholders. We should start with renaming the concept of ‘vendors’ into the realm of partnerships and equal stakeholders!”

Event Highlights

Housekeeping Synergy 3.0 witnessed participation from senior housekeeping professionals, pest management experts, solution providers, and industry stakeholders, reinforcing the shared commitment of both associations to drive excellence through collaboration. The MoU is expected to pave the way for joint training programs, workshops, awareness campaigns, and industry advocacy, further strengthening the ecosystem of facility hygiene and safety management.

About PHA

The Professional Housekeepers Association (PHA) is a national professional body dedicated to advancing housekeeping standards across the hospitality and allied sectors. Through conventions, workshops, training, and industry partnerships, PHA fosters knowledge sharing, operational excellence, and professional development within the housekeeping community.

PHA was registered in Bengaluru on 16 February 2015 and officially launched on 21 May 2015 by a group of like-minded, enthusiastic professional housekeepers. The founding members and Executive Committee bring vast professional experience from their respective areas of expertise. Its life members are seasoned professionals who contribute immensely to the collaborative development of the fraternity.

IHG Hotels & Resorts to scale India presence to over 400 open and in-development hotels within five years

The company had another year of record signings in 2025, introduced its new mainstream brand, Garner, to the market and is set to debut its Luxury & Lifestyle brand, Vignette Collection early this year

India, January 2026:  With more than 50 open hotels and 80 in development, comprising close to 12,000 rooms, IHG® Hotels & Resorts, one of the world’s leading hotel companies, is set to more than triple its estate in India over the next five years.

India remains a key growth engine for IHG and delivered a third consecutive year of record signings in 2025. This momentum supports IHG’s ambition to reach more than 400 open and in development hotels within the next five years and reflects strong owner confidence in IHG’s brand portfolio and enterprise system.

IHG currently has hotels opened or signed across eight brands in India - including Six Senses, InterContinental, Crowne Plaza, voco, Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Garner and Staybridge Suites within luxury, premium and midscale categories forming a strong foundation for its next phase of growth in the market. As part of its continued portfolio expansion, IHG will also debut its Vignette Collection brand in early 2026, to further accelerate its presence in the Luxury & Lifestyle category in India.

Elie Maalouf, Chief Executive Officer, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “India is one of IHG’s strategic markets globally and a key contributor to our long-term growth ambitions. Strong domestic demand, favourable demographics and the depth of confidence owners express in our brands continue to support our expansion here. With a global portfolio of 20 distinct brands, IHG is strategically expanding its presence in India by introducing more choices to the market. The upcoming debut of Vignette Collection and a strong response to newer brands such as Garner highlight the relevance and flexibility of our portfolio in meeting evolving owner and guest needs. Backed by a robust portfolio of hotels in development, we are well positioned to accelerate growth in India while advancing our broader ambition of building scale across key markets.”

Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, added: “India remains one of IHG’s most active markets, supported by an underpenetrated branded hotel landscape and strong demand across business and leisure segments. The introduction of Vignette Collection and rapid growth of the InterContinental and Crowne Plaza brands strengthens our offering across luxury and premium segments, complementing the strong performance of our mainstream brands such as Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express that anchor our scale in India. With 80 hotels in development and an increasing signing momentum, we remain focused on delivering accelerating growth in the country over the next five years.”

IHG’s essentials portfolio continues to underpin presence in India, supported by consistent demand from business and leisure travel, weekend getaways and experience-led stays across urban centres and resort destinations. Holiday Inn and Holiday Inn Express together account for over 70% of IHG’s operating hotels in India, as well as the majority of its hotel currently in development. Holiday Inn Express ranked #1 for signings in its industry category in Q3 2025 year-to-date, reinforcing its strong position within the segment.

The launch of Garner in India in 2025 marked the introduction of IHG’s newest mid-scale conversion brand to the market. Signings during the year included Garner Etawah (Uttar Pradesh) and Garner Kathua (Jammu & Kashmir), with additional hotels in Garner Kutch and Garner Bhiwadi recently added to the pipeline. The brand’s early traction underscores growing owner appetite for efficient, branded essentials offerings, and reinforces IHG’s focus on conversion-led growth in India.

IHG is also seeing healthy momentum across its premium portfolio. Crowne Plaza continues to grow and now represents around 25% of IHG hotels in development in the region. The opening of Crowne Plaza Lucknow in May 2025 marked a significant milestone as IHG’s 50th open hotel in India. The company has also recently debuted the voco brand in India, with signings across cities and leisure destinations including Srinagar, Goa, Gurugram, Mumbai, Amritsar and the first voco opening in Jim Corbett National Park.

Luxury & Lifestyle brands represent a growing share of IHG’s India pipeline. The InterContinental brand continues to expand across key metros such as Bengaluru and Hyderabad, as well as alongside resort destinations including Mahabalipuram, Kasauli and Kodaikanal, supported by high-end leisure demand. IHG has further strengthened its luxury presence with the opening of Six Senses Fort Barwara in Rajasthan in 2021, and the addition of Six Senses Vana in 2023.

Looking ahead, IHG remains focused on disciplined, portfolio-led expansion in India, supported by strong owner partnerships and conversion opportunities. With a balanced presence across mainstream, premium and luxury brands, the company is well positioned to capture the next phase of growth in India’s hospitality sector.

Sri Lanka Tourism Hosts Awareness Session to Reinforce Readiness and Strengthen India Market Engagement

Sri Lanka Tourism Hosts Awareness Session in New Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai To Reinforce Readiness and Strengthen India Market Engagement

The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) successfully conducted a Sri Lanka Tourism Awareness Session in New Delhi on 7 January, Mumbai on the 8 January and Chennai on the 9th January 2026, aimed at reaffirming Sri Lanka’s readiness to welcome visitors and strengthening tourism ties with the Indian travel trade and media.

An Awareness Session on Sri Lanka Tourism was successfully conducted in New Delhi, aimed at informing the Indian travel trade and media on Sri Lanka’s readiness to welcome visitors. The session was represented by Her Excellency Mahishini Colonne, the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to New Delhi, Mr. Buddhika Hewawasam, Chairman, and Ms. Shirani Herath, Assistant Director of the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB), Mr. Nalin Jayasundera, the President of the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO), Mr. Anura Lokuhetty, the Past President of The Hotels Association of Sri Lanka (THASL), and Mr. Fawzan Fareid, the Regional Manager – India, Bangladesh & Nepal of SriLankan Airlines. Ms. Priyanga Wickremasinghe, Consul General of Sri Lanka in Mumbai, while the Chennai session was attended by H.E. Dr. Ganesanathan Geathiswaran, Consul General of Sri Lanka in Chennai.

The distinguished panel shared valuable insights on destination readiness, connectivity, accommodation capacity, and collaborative opportunities between Sri Lanka and the Indian travel trade. The discussion reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s strong commitment to the Indian market, highlighting enhanced air connectivity, diverse tourism offerings, and close public–private sector collaboration. The interactive Q&A session further addressed trade and media queries, reinforcing confidence and strengthening partnerships to drive tourist arrivals from India.

The Fern Hotels & Resorts Strengthens North India Presence with Budhni Signing Announces Crescent The Fern Budhni, Series by Marriott

Mumbai, January 2026: The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, is pleased to announce the signing of Crescent The Fern Budhni, Series by Marriott, located in Budhni, Madhya Pradesh. This strategic addition further strengthens the group’s presence in North India, taking the total number of operational and upcoming properties in the region to 21.

Sharing his thoughts on the signing, Mr. Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, said, “India’s hospitality growth story is increasingly being shaped by emerging destinations that are benefiting from infrastructure development, improved connectivity and evolving travel demand. This signing reinforces our commitment to disciplined growth while continuing to elevate guest expectations through sustainable and contemporary hospitality offerings. Our expansion under The Fern, Series by Marriott reflects a focused approach to building a balanced portfolio that combines location relevance, brand strength and long-term value creation.”

The upcoming hotel will feature 82 well-designed rooms and suites, offering a refined stay experience tailored to the needs of both business and leisure travellers. The accommodations will combine thoughtful design with modern comforts, ensuring a seamless and welcoming guest experience. Dining options at the property will include an all-day dining restaurant and a vibrant bar and lounge café, providing guests with diverse culinary choices in carefully curated settings suited for both casual dining and social interaction. For meetings and events, the hotel will offer well-appointed facilities, including one conference room and two banquet halls, making it an ideal venue for corporate gatherings, meetings and social celebrations of varying scale.

Strategically located in Budhni, the property is well positioned to serve travellers seeking quality hospitality in a growing regional market. Scheduled to open in the first half of 2026, Crescent The Fern Budhni, Series by Marriott, will further strengthen The Fern Hotels & Resorts’ presence in North India while reinforcing its commitment to sustainability, service excellence and market-led expansion.

FHRAI Concludes DPDP Rules 2025 Awareness Summit with Strong Emphasis on Data Protection and Cybersecurity

New Delhi, January 2026: The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), in association with the Hotel and Restaurant Association Western India (HRAWI), successfully concluded the Industry Awareness Summit on the Digital Personal Data Protection Rules 2025 at Omni Residency, Indore. The Summit focused on building clarity, preparedness and sector specific understanding of India’s new data protection framework and its relevance for the hospitality industry.

The Summit was organised in the context of the Digital Personal Data Protection Rules 2025 notified under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, which mark a significant shift in India’s approach to data governance. The discussions highlighted how data protection has emerged as a core operational and strategic priority, particularly for the hospitality sector, which relies extensively on digital platforms and technology driven services for guest engagement, service delivery and business growth.

The Summit was graced by Mr. Tulsiram Silawat, Hon’ble Minister of Water Resources, Govt. of Madhya Pradesh, as Chief Guest. Industry leadership was represented by Mr. Surendra Kumar Jaiswal, President, FHRAI, Mr. Jimmy Shaw, President, HRAWI, Mr. Garish Oberoi, Hony. Secretary, FHRAI, and Mr. Sumit Suri, Executive Committee Member, HRAWI and President, Indore Hotel Association. Other dignitaries included Mr. K Syama Raju immediate Past President of FHRAI and Mr Pradeep Shetty Past President of FHRAI.

Dr Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister Madhya Pradesh, said in a video message, “Madhya Pradesh has immense possibilities in the hospitality industry. We are supporting the industry by promoting all forms of tourism such as forest, religious, cultural etc. We expect lot of new hotel projects in the state with up to 30 per cent subsidy on investments for large projects.”

Mr. Tulsiram Silawat, Minister of Water Resources, Madhya Pradesh, said, “The Madhya Pradesh government dedicated the year 2025 to industry policies. We can assure you that the state’s tourism and hospitality policy is among the best in the country today. I also feel these discussions on Digital Personal Data Protection will give a new dawn and direction to the industry. We are determined to support the hopes and aspirations of hospitality industry, which is also in line with Hon’ble Prime Minister Modi’s vision for development of tourism.”

Speaking on the outcomes of the Summit, Mr. Surendra Kumar Jaiswal, President, FHRAI, said, “The Digital Personal Data Protection Rules 2025 represent a critical milestone for India’s digital economy. For the hospitality sector, compliance is directly linked to guest trust and long-term sustainability. This Summit has enabled our members to clearly understand their responsibilities and take practical steps towards building robust data governance and compliance frameworks.”

Mr. Jaiswal further said, “Inspired by the vision of our Honourable Prime Minister, the association has undertaken several initiatives to support the growth of the industry, many of which have already begun to deliver positive results. The Delhi government has assured us of a single-window clearance system for all licences, along with third-party fire safety audits, which we have been advocating for long. FHRAI and HRANI have been regularly advocating for the removal of the requirement of the Eating House Licence by the Delhi Police. This has now been abolished, which is a great relief for hospitality establishments. We have also proposed the adoption of dry fogging systems across hotels and restaurants in Delhi as an alternative to anti-smog guns, and thankfully this is under consideration. In addition, we are encouraging hospitality establishments to procure directly from Farmers Producers Organization, ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach the farming community as well.”

Speaking on the practical implications for hospitality operators, Mr. Jimmy Shaw, President, HRAWI, said, “For hotels and restaurants, the DPDP Rules 2025 translate into day-to-day operational changes from front-desk processes and online reservations to vendor management and payment systems. The Summit has been particularly valuable in demystifying compliance and equipping establishments, especially small and mid-sized operators, with clarity on how to embed data protection into routine business operations without disrupting service delivery.”

As a key outcome, the Summit enhanced industry readiness by strengthening understanding of organisational obligations and data governance standards, improving preparedness for consent management and breach handling, and encouraging closer collaboration between industry and regulators. The Summit reaffirmed FHRAI’s commitment to supporting the hospitality sector in achieving smooth and effective implementation of the Digital Personal Data Protection Rules 2025 while reinforcing transparency, accountability and consumer confidence.

Mr Garish Oberoi, Hony. Secretary, FHRAI presented the vote of thanks and expressed special gratitude to the Government of Madhya Pradesh during the inaugural session, adding, “With such a progressive tourism policy in place, we are extremely optimistic about the future of hospitality and tourism in the state.”

Mr. Sumit Suri, Executive Committee Member, HRAWI, and President, Indore Hotel Association, said, “Madhya Pradesh is emerging as a key state for the industry, supported by its attractive tourism policies, including subsidies for new hotel projects. We appreciate and thank the state government for consistently being cooperative and supportive of our industry.”

The deliberations provided participants with clear insights into the scope and applicability of the DPDP Rules, including consent and notice requirements, obligations of data fiduciaries and processors, protection of children’s data, breach preparedness and reporting, data principal rights, and compliance requirements for significant data fiduciaries. The discussions also addressed the hospitality sector’s extensive use of online booking systems, property management platforms, loyalty programmes, payment gateways, AI enabled guest services and third-party aggregators, all of which involve processing of sensitive personal data.

Monday Hotels Launches Monday Premium, Madhapur; Marks Fourth Property in Hyderabad

Monday Hotels, a new-age hospitality brand catering to modern business and leisure travelers, today announced the launch of Monday Premium, Madhapur, marking its fourth hotel in Hyderabad and strengthening its footprint in one of India’s fastest-growing urban markets.

Located in Madhapur, at the heart of Hyderabad’s HITECH City, the new property benefits from proximity to major IT hubs such as Deloitte, Accenture, Knowledge City, and Mindspace, as well as prominent corporate and social event venues including HICC, T-Hub, and Meydan Expo Centre. The hotel is also surrounded by upscale residential neighborhoods and a vibrant social and lifestyle ecosystem, making it well-suited for corporate and contemporary travelers.

Monday Premium, Madhapur features thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, modern business facilities aligned with the needs of today’s professionals, bespoke dining experiences, and personalized service that reflects the brand’s customer-first philosophy.

Commenting on the launch, Mitesh Kadam, Co-Founder, Monday Hotels, said, “The launch of Monday Premium in Madhapur represents an important milestone for us in Hyderabad. As our fourth property in the city, it underscores our commitment to offering consistently high-quality hospitality experiences tailored to the modern business traveler.”

Sapaad Forays into India, Strengthening Digital Infrastructure for the Country’s Organised F&B Sector

Bootstrapped SaaS company introduces India-focused pricing; targets 8–10% share of India’s organised restaurant technology market by 2030

New Delhi, India, December, 2025: Sapaad, a bootstrapped, Make-in-India cloud-based restaurant technology company with a strong global footprint, today announced its formal entry into the Indian market. With several thousand customers across more than 40 countries, Sapaad brings over a decade of global operating experience to India at a time when the country’s food services sector is accelerating its adoption of digital, data-led operating models.

As part of its India strategy, Sapaad is focused on the organised and technology-ready segment of the restaurant market, estimated at 5–6 lakh outlets nationwide. This segment includes organised, multi-outlet and growth-oriented F&B brands such as QSR chains, franchise-led brands, cafés and bakeries, cloud kitchen operators and mid-sized restaurant groups. By concentrating on this defined market, Sapaad expects to build a scalable footprint and aims to serve 8–10% of this segment by 2030, translating into a potential nationwide presence across approximately 50,000 restaurant outlets.

For India, the company has introduced localised pricing with monthly subscriptions ranging from INR 5,999 to INR 12,999 per outlet, while offering the same enterprise-grade platform used by customers globally. Sapaad also offers a hybrid pricing model that combines software subscriptions with integrated fintech payments, enabling operators to manage total operating costs through blended payment processing fees. Deployment and onboarding are offered as paid services, reinforcing the company’s focus on implementation quality and long-term customer success. The platform follows a modular pricing approach, allowing restaurants to begin with core capabilities and progressively adopt advanced modules such as inventory automation, kitchen systems, analytics and AI as their operations scale.

Built on a cloud-first architecture, Sapaad’s platform eliminates hardware dependency, delivers high uptime and supports complex, multi-format restaurant operations. Its integrated suite includes cloud-native POS, online ordering, self-ordering kiosks, QR ordering, kitchen display systems, delivery management, CRM, recipe and inventory management, loyalty programmes, analytics and cloud-based printing, all delivered through a unified operational platform.

Announcing the India entry, Vishnu Vardhan Madabhushi, Founder & CEO, Sapaad, said, “India’s restaurant industry is moving beyond basic digitisation towards systems that can support scale, consistency and data-driven decision-making. While the country has an estimated 10–12 million food outlets, the organised, technology-ready segment presents a clear opportunity for platforms built for operational depth rather than surface-level automation. Having built Sapaad as a bootstrapped company over the last decade, our focus has been on dependable, real-world technology. India is a natural next phase of our journey, and we are committed to building for the long term.”

Commenting on the company’s product and engineering approach, Anup Anthony, Co-Founder & CTO, Sapaad, said, “Sapaad has been engineered with performance, reliability and scale at its core. Beyond transactional systems, the platform is designed to convert operational data into actionable intelligence, enabling restaurants to improve control, forecasting and decision-making as they grow.”

Sapaad has developed AI-led capabilities across its platform, including Ask Vantage, a conversational analytics layer that enables operators to query business performance in real time, an AI-driven promotion engine, and predictive menu engineering tools that help optimise pricing, demand and margins. These capabilities are designed to move restaurants from static reporting to proactive, data-led operational decisions. The platform is integrated with major Indian fintech payment aggregators, enabling unified payments and operations, real-time order and settlement reconciliation, reduced manual intervention and improved cost management.

With the global food technology market valued at approximately USD 205 billion in 2024 and projected to grow significantly over the next decade, Asia-Pacific accounts for over 30% of this growth, underscoring the strategic importance of markets such as India. Globally, Sapaad powers a wide range of foodservice businesses including boutique and Michelin-star restaurants, bakeries and dessert chains, large Middle Eastern restaurant groups, ice-cream chains, café chains, QSR operators, franchise networks, cloud kitchens and delivery-first concepts, highlighting the platform’s versatility and enterprise-grade reliability across formats.

Sanraj Group invests in Revelry Distillery as Vanaha emerges among the most awarded new gins globally

December 2025: SanRaj Group proudly announces an investment in Revelry Distillery the Goa-based premium craft spirits company by Vaniitha & Navvin Jaiin, best known for its flagship product, Vanaha Gin.

Nestled in the lush forests of Sattari, Revelry Distillery is India’s first purpose-built craft spirits distillery. It is a pioneering, state-of-the-art, hi-tech facility that marries artisanal craftsmanship with cutting-edge innovation. Vanaha Gin, crafted with 24 handpicked botanicals from across India using a pioneering five-step distillation process combining Copper Pot Distillation, Vapor Infusion, and Cold Vacuum Distillation — a first for an Indian gin.

Since its launch in May this year, Vanaha Artisanal Forest Gin has achieved significant international acclaim - led by the highest honour, a Master Medal, at The Spirits Business Global Gin Masters, followed by Gold for Design and Packaging at The Spirits Business Global Spirits Design Masters. It has also won accolades at the IWSC and Global Wine & Spirits Awards Asia, and was the only gin brand worldwide shortlisted this year as a finalist for Innovation in Production at The Spirits Business Awards. In a remarkably short time, Vanaha stands among India’s most globally awarded new spirits brands.

SanRaj Group has been founded by Sandip Gupta and Rajdip Gupta - entrepreneurs known for building and scaling Route Mobile into one of India’s most successful listed technology companies. Their investment in Revelry marks their entry into premium craft spirits, backing promoters with the potential to build globally admired Indian brands.

The partnership reflects a strong alignment – SanRaj Group approach to scaling category defining businesses complements Revelry’s ambition to build globally relevant Indian craft spirits. The investment fuels Revelry’s next phase of growth, expanding production, strengthening distribution, accelerating brand‑building, and powering R&D for future innovations. It also supports expansion into key Indian states and international markets.

Commenting on this investment, Rajdip Gupta said: “At SanRaj, we partner with founders who redefine categories. With Revelry, we see the foundations of a spirits house capable of building iconic Indian brands with global appeal. Vanaha’s global accolades reflects the strength of the team’s vision and execution.”

Sandip Gupta added: “Revelry embodies the ambition we believe in - clarity of vision, innovation led thinking, and the capability to scale. Vanaha’s rapid recognition across global juries strengthens our conviction in the company’s potential to build world class Indian spirits.”

Vanitha Jaiin, Founder, Revelry Distillery is respected alcobev strategist, industry expert and an international wine & spirits judge. Her credentials reinforce the depth of expertise she brings to Revelry’s product vision and category leadership. Her husband Navvin Jaiin is a distinguished business leader with over two decades of experience in BFSI and scaling high-growth ventures. Navvin adds strength in strategy, operations, and distribution. Together, they combine visionary creativity with executional excellence, building Revelry into one of India’s most ambitious craft spirits ventures.

Vaniitha Jaiin says “Revelry was created with a bold ambition to craft world class spirits rooted in India. Vanaha’s global awards validate our product philosophy and innovation first approach. This partnership gives us the ability to scale faster, expand our innovation pipeline, and take Indian craft excellence to global markets.”

Navvin Jaiin, Co-Founder of Revelry Distillery, said: “Beyond capital, what excites us about SanRaj is their belief in building an enduring spirits house, not just products. Together, we can strengthen Revelry’s foundation, expand distribution, and create the scale needed to take multiple Indian spirits brands global.”

India’s premium craft spirits category is expanding rapidly as consumers seek authenticity, innovation, and global quality products with an Indian soul. With Vanaha as its first expression, Revelry is poised to build a portfolio that stands alongside the world’s finest while staying true to its origins.

ROHL Expands Presence in Rajasthan with the Launch of Regenta Anantam Resort, Khatu Shyam Ji

Bengaluru, December, 2025:Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL) has announced the launch of their newest property in Khatu Shyam Ji, one of Rajasthan’s most prominent pilgrimage destinations. The expansion is part of the brand’s continued strategy to strengthen its presence across high-growth spiritual, cultural, and leisure locations in India. Developed in association with Mr. Rajender Kumar Agarwal and Mr. Dinesh Kumar Agarwal, the 120-key resort will be operated under a management agreement. The property reflects ROHL’s asset-light model and its focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences across emerging tourism hubs.

The new 120-key upscale resort is strategically located just 2 km from the revered Khatu Shyam Ji Temple, a destination that welcomes lakhs of devotees every year. Featuring five categories of thoughtfully designed rooms and suites, the resort offers a blend of comfort, elegance, and convenience. The resort features spacious room categories ranging from 205 sq. ft. Deluxe Rooms to 421 sq. ft. Presidential Suites, designed to offer guests ample comfort and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a variety of curated amenities including Amritam, the all-day vegetarian restaurant, Prasadam Café, a swimming pool, Arogya Spa, a gym, an elegant banquet hall Aanandam, and the expansive open-air Baagh Lawn. With its versatile spaces and serene surroundings, the resort is ideal for pilgrims, families, and destination weddings.

Commenting on the opening, Arjun Baljee, President, Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd., said, “As we continue expanding across India, spiritually significant destinations like Khatu Shyam Ji are becoming an important part of our growth story. This location attracts millions of devotees and travellers year-round, creating strong demand for organised hospitality. Regenta Anantam Resort is designed to offer guests a comfortable, serene, and well-connected stay experience. We are delighted to introduce the Regenta experience to Khatu in partnership with Mr. Rajender Kumar Agarwal and Mr. Dinesh Kumar Agarwal, and we look forward to welcoming guests seeking convenience, warmth, and genuine hospitality.”

Khatu Shyam Ji, located in the Sikar district of Rajasthan, is among India’s most revered pilgrimage sites, drawing huge footfall during festivals, fairs, and auspicious periods. With its proximity to key attractions such as Golden Water Park, Mahalaxmi Temple, Jeen Mata Temple, and Shakambhari Devi Temple, Regenta Anantam Resort is positioned to serve as a preferred destination for both devotees and leisure travellers exploring the region.

Mr. Rajender Kumar Agarwal & Mr. Dinesh Kumar Agarwal said “We are thrilled to collaborate with Royal Orchid Hotels to introduce a high-quality hospitality experience in Khatu Shyam Ji. Every aspect of this resort has been crafted with guest comfort, elegance, and satisfaction in mind. We look forward to welcoming travellers, families, and devotees to a stay that is both enriching and memorable.”

Ventive Hospitality Sets a New Benchmark in Workforce Pay for India’s Hospitality Sector

Mr. Ranjit Batra, CEO, Ventive Hospitality Limited

Pune, India, November 2025: Ventive Hospitality Limited, a premier listed hospitality platform, has implemented a sector-first salary enhancement across its Marriott hotels in Pune.  They will receive a ₹20,000 in-hand minimum monthly salary, setting a new benchmark in workforce reform within Indian hospitality industry.

The policy, first committed voluntarily by the CEO Ranjit Batra in 2024, positioning Ventive Hospitality as the first Indian hospitality group to implement a structured minimum pay threshold. This move reinforces the company’s commitment towards strengthening financial security for frontline employees while addressing sector-wide challenges around retention and workforce stability.

Speaking on the initiative, Mr. Ranjit Batra — who began his career from the ranks of Captain and rose to become CEO — embodies resilience, passion, and an unwavering dedication to the craft of hospitality, stating, “At its heart, this is a future proof investment in people. When our teams feel respected, supported, and inspired, they create experiences that guests remember and relationships that last. That belief has guided us from the beginning and it will continue to shape our journey ahead. When we take care of our people, they take care of our guests. That is, and will always remain, our true spirit of hospitality.”

Industry observers note that while hospitality is one of India’s largest employment-generating sectors, entry-level wage structures have long lagged the escalating cost of living in both metropolitan and tier-two markets. By establishing a structured minimum salary, Ventive Hospitality directly addresses these entrenched challenges by reinforcing its commitment to financial well-being and long-term workforce stability. Emerging as a frontrunner in shaping fair, future-ready employment practices, this move presents a forward-looking blueprint for the industry navigating workforce shortages, operational demands, heightened guest expectations and the need for more resilient staffing strategies.

Ventive Hospitality’s commitment to its workforce is deeply embedded in the company’s ethos and was most evident during the COVID 19 period, when Ventive Hospitality was one of the few companies who continued full wage payments and prioritised employee wellbeing even as the wider hospitality industry faced unprecedented financial strain.

About Ventive Hospitality Limited:

Ventive Hospitality Ltd is an owner, developer and asset manager of luxury and upper upscale hotels in India and the Maldives, with 13 operational hospitality assets across the business and leisure segments, representing 2,178 keys. The hotels are operated by global brands like Marriott, Hilton, Minor and Atmosphere. In addition, the company also owns a portfolio of complementary annuity assets spanning 3.4 million square feet in total area. The company posted consolidated revenue of Rs 2,159 crore in fiscal year 2025 ended March 31, 2025. It had a successful IPO in December 2024 and is listed on the BSE and NSE in India.

Dharana at Shillim Recognised as Top 20 Global Destination Spa by Condé Nast Traveler

Shillim, Maharashtra – India’s transformative wellbeing retreat, Dharana at Shillim, a living ecosystem for evidence-based healing, learning and transformation, has been honoured among the Top 20 Destination Spas in the World  in the 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. This global recognition reaffirms the retreat’s commitment to clinical-grade wellbeing with precision, positioning it among the world’s most distinguished sanctuaries for longevity and holistic health outcome - where healing is lived with quiet intention and guided by the intelligence of nature.

This distinguished placement in the Top 20, reflecting the direct opinions of thousands of experienced global travelers, reinforces the rigor of Dharana's philosophy. The retreat’s approach seamlessly blends the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda with advanced diagnostics and clinical oversight to deliver consistent, measurable results in long term wellbeing  and Cognitive Health. This methodology is guided by Dharana’s proprietary Five Pathways - Preventive Medicine, Physical Restoration, Healing Nutrition, Emotional Balance, Spiritual Harmony - a structured journey that nurtures the inner architecture of wellbeing. Set within the UNESCO World Heritage Western Ghats, the natural landscape serves as the inherent source of its healing philosophy, shaping an environment where silence, stillness and science come together.

"We are incredibly humbled and deeply grateful for this global recognition, which has been voted for by the discerning readers of Condé Nast Traveler," said Gavin de Souza, Managing Director - Writer Lifestyle Pvt Ltd, and CEO – Dharana at Shillim. "This award is a profound validation of our brand mission - to offer not just a retreat, but a strategic outcome in long-term health. It celebrates the dedication of our entire team, who are committed to curating every guest journey with scientific precision to achieve measurable, life-changing transformation from retreat to ritual and from intention to lasting wellbeing"

About Dharana at Shillim

As leaders in guest health improvement, Dharana at Shillim is India’s foremost living ecosystem for healing, learning and transformation, nestled within 2,500 acres of pristine landscape in the Sahyadri Mountain range of Maharashtra, India. Offering clinical-grade wellbeing with personalisation and precision, the retreat integrates  ancient wisdom of Ayurveda with data-driven programmes across its proprietary Five Pathways. 

With Shillim as a sanctuary for healing, the retreat is devoted to curating strategic, high-value health outcomes that foster longevity and conscious living — with each journey beginning well before your visit and continuing long after your stay.

FHRAI–IHM to Host Mini Marathon on ‘Viksit Hospitality for Viksit Bharat’ in Greater Noida

Celebrating the role of hospitality in nation-building and inspiring the next generation of professionals

November, 2025: The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), in collaboration with FHRAI–IHM and the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Northern India (HRANI), will host the first edition of the FHRAI–IHM Mini Marathon in Greater Noida on Sunday, 1st February 2026. Themed ‘Viksit Hospitality for Viksit Bharat’, the event brings together students, hospitality professionals, government representatives, and fitness enthusiasts to celebrate the contribution of the hospitality sector to India’s growth story while promoting the industry as a strong career pathway for the youth.

India’s tourism and hospitality industry continues to remain one of the country’s largest drivers of economic value. It plays a central role in strengthening GDP, enhancing foreign exchange earnings, and creating widespread employment. Despite its vast potential and rapid expansion into Tier III and Tier IV cities over the last two to three years, the industry continues to face an acute shortage of trained manpower. This contrast, of immense growth opportunity and a pressing skill gap, highlights the need for deeper awareness, stronger industry–academia collaboration, and a policy environment that encourages talent development. The Mini Marathon has been conceptualised to address this need by positioning hospitality as a vibrant, future-ready career and by showcasing the sector’s decisive role in shaping the Viksit Bharat vision.

The event will feature an energetic opening ceremony with participation from senior government officials and hospitality leaders. Attendees will experience a unique culinary showcase, with chefs presenting signature dishes along the marathon route, alongside an interactive hospitality pavilion designed to highlight new possibilities in hospitality, tourism, food innovation, and service excellence. The presence of celebrity chefs, sports personalities, and influencers will further elevate the event’s engagement and appeal. Participants can also enjoy live music sessions, fitness workshops, Zumba, and Bhangra performances throughout the morning. Sustainability remains an essential element of the event, reflected through environmentally conscious race kits, reusable hydration stations, and efforts to reduce food waste.

The Mini Marathon will include four participation categories, offering distances suitable for runners and walkers across age groups. FHRAI–IHM, located at Plot No. 45, Knowledge Park III, Greater Noida, will host the event starting at 6:00 am. With an expected turnout of students, industry professionals, runners, and families, the event aims to create a spirited atmosphere that brings together the hospitality community and the wider public.

Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Surendra Kumar Jaiswal, President, FHRAI, said, “The hospitality sector has the power to transform India’s economic future. As the country moves toward the goal of Viksit Bharat, the industry will play a defining role not only in job creation but in shaping the global perception of India. Through this Mini Marathon, we want young people to feel inspired, to see hospitality as a meaningful and rewarding career, and to understand the impact they can make as future leaders of this sector.”

The FHRAI–IHM Mini Marathon is envisioned as an annual flagship event that celebrates health, teamwork, and community spirit while spotlighting the vital role hospitality can play in driving India’s development narrative. As the sector prepares for its next phase of expansion, the event seeks to encourage greater participation from students and professionals and reinforce the importance of skilled talent in building a strong and future-ready hospitality ecosystem.

New Labour Codes: A Transformative Turning Point for India’s Hospitality Workforce By Dr. Bhupesh Kumar

As India prepares to implement its long-awaited labour reforms, the hospitality and tourism sector stands on the cusp of a historic shift—one that promises dignity, fairness, and a more secure future for millions of workers.

A Landmark Reform in India’s Labour Landscape

The Government of India’s decision to enforce the four new Labour Codes from 21 November 2025 marks one of the most sweeping modernizations of labour governance in decades. By consolidating 29 disparate laws into four simplified, comprehensive codes, the reforms aim to create a labour environment that is transparent, equitable, and adaptable to the demands of a rapidly evolving economy.

For India’s hospitality and tourism industry, which employs one of the largest and most diverse workforces in the country, these reforms are not just administrative changes but represents a structural transformation poised to elevate the entire sector.

Formalization: Bringing Order to an Informal Ecosystem

The hospitality sector including hotels, restaurants, travel services, events, and allied operations, has traditionally depended on a workforce marked by informality. Contract staff, part-time employees, housekeeping teams, drivers, guides, and gig-based partners often work without documentation or predictable protection.

The new Labour Codes address this systemic gap through a mandatory appointment letter for every employee, formalizing terms of employment across roles and levels. This move ensures greater clarity, accountability, and job security, fostering a more professional and fair working culture.

Fair Wages and Transparent Compensation

A decisive feature of the reforms is the introduction of a National Floor Wage, ensuring uniformity of minimum wages across states. The standardisation of the definition of ‘wages’ simplifies calculations for overtime, gratuity, bonuses, and provident fund, offering workers predictable earnings and employers’ clearer compliance.

For an industry accustomed to extended and irregular work hours, the requirement to pay overtime at twice the standard rate is a powerful step toward fair compensation and respect for labour.

Equally significant is the provision enabling fixed-term employees to receive gratuity after just one year of service, aligning their benefits more closely with permanent staff and strengthening workplace parity.

Social Security for the Gig Workforce

Perhaps the most pioneering shift is the inclusion of gig and platform workers within the social security framework. Freelance guides, drivers, adventure instructors, event professionals, and other self-employed service providers who are invisible in the benefits ecosystem, will now gain access to insurance, pension schemes, and provident fund coverage.

With Aadhaar-enabled portability, workers frequently moving between cities or jobs can now maintain benefit continuity which will be an invaluable support for the tourism workforce.

Improved Health, Safety, and Workplace Welfare

The new Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code reinforces employer responsibility for creating safe and supportive workplaces. Annual health check-ups for workers aged 40 and above, recognition of commute related risks in certain cases, and clarity on safety norms offer enhanced protection for those engaged in strenuous, guest handling roles.

For an industry where physical effort, equipment handling, and long shifts are routine, these provisions can significantly reduce occupational vulnerabilities.

Expanding Opportunities for Women

One of the most progressive provisions is the permission for women to work night shifts, subject to consent and adequate safety arrangements. Since hospitality often operates round the clock, this change opens new pathways for women’s employment, particularly in hotels, restaurants, aviation linked services, and travel operations.

Reaffirmation of equal pay for equal work strengthens the sector’s commitment to gender equity.

Ease of Doing Business for Hospitality Entrepreneurs

Small and medium hospitality operators including standalone hotels, homestays, cafés, restaurants, and travel agencies, will benefit from simplified compliance through single registration, single licensing, and a single annual return.

Reducing bureaucratic complexity can encourage greater formal employment and bring more workers under documented, regulated systems.

Implementation Challenges: The Road to Real Impact

While the reforms are visionary, focused and successful implementation will require:

• readiness among employers for wage restructuring

• increased social security contributions

• strong coordination across states

• extensive awareness campaigns for informal workers, especially in remote tourism destinations

The true test lies not in the codes themselves, but in how effectively they are executed across India’s varied labour landscape.

A Future Built on Dignity, Security, and Inclusion

The new labour laws offer the hospitality and tourism sector a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reset its foundations. By championing fair wages, social protection, workplace safety, and gender equality, the reforms promise to uplift millions who contribute tirelessly to one of India’s most dynamic industries.

If implemented with consistency and commitment, these codes can usher in a more dignified, secure, and globally competitive future for India’s hospitality workforce, strengthening both the sector’s economic vitality and its human foundation.

(The author is the Principal, IHM, Ranchi)

NAGALAND CHIEF MINISTER RECEIVED AIR INDIA EXPRESS’ TSÜNGKOTEPSÜ LIVERY AIRCRAFT AHEAD OF HORNBILL FESTIVAL 2025

Celebrating its Hornbill Festival 2025 partnership Air India Express announced a 15% discount for travel from/to Dimapur.

November-2025, National: Chief Minister of Nagaland, Shri Neiphiu Rio, received Air India Express’ newly inducted Boeing 737-8 aircraft at Dimapur Airport on 22 Nov, featuring a livery inspired by the Tsüngkotepsü warrior shawl, an iconic symbol of Nagaland’s tribal heritage, marking the beginning of the airline’s association as the Official Travel Partner of the Hornbill Festival 2025. The event at Dimapur Airport brought the cultural spirit of the State to the fore, with traditional dancers from Nagaland creating a vibrant and evocative welcome that reflected the essence of the much-loved festival.

The Hornbill Festival, held annually from 1 to 10 December, is one of India’s most prominent cultural celebrations, drawing visitors from across the country and around the world. Often described as the ‘Festival of Festivals’. It showcases the diversity, craftsmanship, folklore, and community traditions of Nagaland’s many tribes. The festival offers a unique window into the State’s rich cultural landscape, and the partnership with Air India Express enhances tourism to the region, enabling more people to explore and celebrate Nagaland’s heritage.

Receiving the aircraft, Shri Neiphiu Rio, Chief Minister of Nagaland, said, “The Hornbill Festival is a celebration of our identity, unity, and artistic heritage, and we are pleased to have Air India Express as our Official Travel Partner this year. The Tsüngkotepsü livery is a meaningful gesture that honours the traditions of the Ao tribe and carries a part of Nagaland’s story across India. This partnership strengthens our efforts to welcome more visitors to Nagaland and deepen cultural understanding through an experience that reflects who we are as a people.”

Speaking about the association, Aloke Singh, Managing Director, Air India Express, said, “We are honoured to partner with the Government of Nagaland for the Hornbill Festival 2025. The spirit of Hornbill, vibrant, warm, expressive, and deeply rooted in culture, resonates strongly with our brand ethos and our Tales of India initiative, through which we celebrate the country’s many stories. The Tsüngkotepsü-inspired livery on our new aircraft VT-BWD is our tribute to Nagaland’s artistic legacy, and today’s ceremony reflects the State’s creative energy and cultural pride. We look forward to welcoming guests from across India to Xplore more of Nagaland and participate in the Hornbill festivities this year.”

To encourage travel to the State and the festival, Air India Express is extending a 15% discount for bookings from or to Dimapur made till 10 December 2025, applicable for travel till 15 December 2025, using the promo code ‘HORNBILL’ on the airline’s website and mobile app. 

The airline has also created a Hornbill-themed experience with a dedicated photobooth for arriving travellers at Dimapur Airport and a community art canvas inspired by traditional motifs at the festival site at the Kisama heritage village. 

The airline has also announced a contest offering guests the opportunity to win free flights. Participants can take a picture at the AIX photobooth at Dimapur Airport or at the community art canvas inspired by traditional motifs at the Hornbill venue in the Kisama Heritage Village, and upload it on Instagram, Facebook, or X by tagging @airindiax and using #XploreMore, with multiple winners to be selected during the festival period.

Air India Express operates daily flights connecting Dimapur to Guwahati, with convenient one-stop onward connectivity from Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kolkata, and Patna. The flights between Dimapur and New Delhi has a short layover with no aircraft change at Guwahati, ensuring a smoother and more seamless travel experience. Across the Northeast region, the airline connects Guwahati with 126 weekly flights, Agartala with 21 weekly flights, Imphal with 21 weekly flights, and Dibrugarh with 14 weekly flights, strengthening mobility and access in the region.

Air India Express celebrates India’s cultural and festive fabric through thoughtful, guest-centric initiatives that incorporate local traditions into the travel experience. From Sattvik meals during Navratri and festive menus for Diwali and Onam, to gestures such as special edition rakhis onboard for Raksha Bandhan, the airline brings the warmth of India’s celebrations to the skies. The airline recently unveiled its new brand campaign ‘Xplore More, Xpress More’ encouraging travellers to immerse themselves in local culture and discover new experiences. The airline also unveiled the new cabin experience on its Boeing 737-8 aircraft recently. The upgraded cabin features seats with superior padding, wider armrests, and legroom ranging from 29 to 38 inches. Each seat is equipped with in-seat USB charging ports, while the cabins feature ovens for serving hot ‘Gourmair’ meals, refreshed interiors with brand-new carpets, and advanced Boeing Sky Interior lighting, creating a modern, warm, and welcoming ambience that reflects the airline’s commitment to a comfortable and memorable flying experience.

As part of its ‘Tales of India’ initiative, Air India Express proudly showcases unique art and designs on its aircraft tails, representing the stories of India’s many regions. Alongside the Tsüngkotepsü design from Nagaland, the airline’s fleet features Akyobi, Moirang Phee, and Saphee Lanphee from Manipur, Gamosa and Jaapi from Assam, Idu Mishmi from Arunachal Pradesh, Khneng from Meghalaya, and Puanchei from Mizoram, honouring the artistic traditions of the Northeast and celebrating the spirit of India in flight.

SaffronStays Launches JungleBrooke: India’s First Cageless, Pet-First Retreat in Kolad

SaffronStays has unveiled JungleBrooke, a pioneering hospitality concept in Kolad, Maharashtra, designed as a cageless, pet-first retreat where animals take center stage and humans are welcomed as companions. This unique property marks a milestone in India’s conscious travel movement, blending leisure with compassion

JungleBrooke is developed in partnership with Animals Matter To Me (AMTM), founded by Ganesh Nayak.

• The retreat is envisioned as a safe haven for strays and pets, where animals are treated with dignity and freedom.

• Unlike conventional resorts, JungleBrooke prioritizes pets—offering them open spaces, activities, and care—while humans enjoy the experience alongside them.

Spread across an acre within the lush AMTM Kolad campus, JungleBrooke offers a serene escape surrounded by greenery.

• The retreat features 8 spacious cottages set amidst nature, designed to accommodate families, friends, and their pets.

• Facilities include:

  • Pet-friendly swimming pool

  • Yoga and meditation sessions with pets

  • Pet karaoke and play zones

  • Guided nature trails and opportunities to interact with rescued animals

• A portion of proceeds from JungleBrooke supports rescue, care, and rehabilitation of animals under AMTM’s sustainability program.

• Guests are encouraged to participate in feeding rescued animals, fostering a deeper connection with the cause.

• The retreat embodies responsible tourism, offering travelers a chance to contribute to animal welfare while enjoying a luxury getaway.

JungleBrooke is not just a vacation spot—it’s a movement towards compassionate hospitality. Guests can:

• Bond with their pets in a cageless environment

• Engage in mindful activities that celebrate the human-animal connection

• Be part of a larger mission to support animal welfare in India

With JungleBrooke, SaffronStays has redefined hospitality by creating India’s first pet-first, cageless retreat. Nestled in Kolad’s natural beauty, the property offers a rare blend of leisure, sustainability, and compassion—making it a destination where every paw print matters.

FHRAI to Organize FPO–Hospitality & Farmer’s Benefit Summit 2025 in New Delhi

Empowering Farmers, Enriching Hospitality, Elevating India

November 2025 | New Delhi: The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), representing over one lakh hotels and five lakh restaurants across the country will organize the FPO–Hospitality & Farmer’s Benefit Summit on 24 November 2025 in New Delhi. Themed “Bridging Fields to Forks: Strengthening Agri–Hospitality Linkages for Inclusive Growth,” the Summit will bring together leaders from the hospitality industry, Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and government ministries to strengthen cooperation between agriculture and hospitality for inclusive and sustainable development.

The Indian hospitality sector has long been a cornerstone of the service economy, contributing significantly to GDP growth, employment generation, and regional development. Its economic footprint extends well beyond hotels and restaurants, supporting industries such as agriculture, food processing, and logistics. With hotels and restaurants depending extensively on farmers for fresh produce, grains, dairy, and processed products, the relationship between the two sectors is deeply interlinked. Yet, structured collaborations between FPOs and the hospitality sector remain limited. Strengthening these connections can create direct market access for farmers, reduce post-harvest losses, and support the hospitality industry in meeting its sustainability and local sourcing objectives.

The Summit aims to create a national platform that enables direct interaction between FPOs, hospitality chains, and policymakers, encouraging long-term partnerships and sustainable business models. It will explore ways to integrate local sourcing frameworks, promote circular economy practices, and facilitate policy discussions that strengthen the agri–hospitality value chain. The initiative also seeks to highlight the socio-economic importance of this collaboration and identify new opportunities for rural inclusion, sustainable procurement, and responsible supply chain management.

The event will witness participation from key government ministries and institutions including the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, NABARD, APEDA, SFAC, and NAFED along with prominent hospitality groups. The Summit is expected to result in the establishment of direct institutional procurement pathways connecting FPOs with hotels and restaurants, as well as increased awareness of the benefits of local sourcing and rural partnerships.

Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Surendra Kumar Jaiswal, President, FHRAI, said, “India’s farmers and hospitality entrepreneurs are two vital pillars of our economy. By connecting them directly, we can create a model that benefits both rural producers and the service sector. With a mission to uplift rural producers and encourage long-term, sustainable partnerships, the Summit will pave the way for a unified, future-ready ecosystem that boosts both community wellbeing and national economic growth. It is also an important step toward building resilient, transparent, and inclusive supply chains that strengthen the country’s food and hospitality ecosystem.”

The FPO–Hospitality & Farmer’s Benefit Summit 2025 is expected to host around more than 500 participants, including representatives from FPOs, hotel and restaurant chains, policymakers, agri-startups, logistics providers, researchers, and media. Participating FPOs at the Summit include Hargaon Farmer Producer Company Limited from Uttar Pradesh, known for its multi-flavoured jaggery and processed sugarcane products; Unchagaon Fed Producer Company Limited from Bulandshahr, specializing in honey and millet produce; and Aryahi Fed Farmers Producer Company Limited from Saharanpur, which focuses on natural honey and fruit-based products. Representing other regions of India, New Agriverse Farmers Producer Company Limited from West Bengal, Zazna Farmers Producer Company Limited from Jammu & Kashmir, and Itarhi Farmer Producer Company Limited from Bihar will also take part, bringing with them a rich diversity of produce such as saffron, organic honey, millets, and rice.

Through this collaborative effort, FHRAI aims to unlock the untapped potential of India’s agri–hospitality linkage and advance a sustainable growth model that benefits both rural and urban economies.

Clarks Exotica Rings in the Festive Season with a Joyous Cake Mixing Celebration

Bengaluru, November  2025: Clarks Exotica Convention Resort & Spa ushered in the festive spirit with its annual Cake Mixing Ceremony, held this year at the picturesque poolside in the Clubhouse. The much-awaited tradition brought together guests, residents of Swiss Town and Hollywood Town, Serene Garden, senior management, and resort staff for an evening of warmth, laughter, and community cheer.

The celebration began on a grand note with an exclusive reveal — a set of specially designed cake-mixing logos that offered a glimpse into the resort’s evolving story. This creative teaser added an element of excitement and curiosity to the evening, setting the tone for what’s next at Clarks Exotica.

As the music played and festive aromas filled the air, guests joined hands with the Clarks team to mix an abundance of dry fruits, nuts, and spices, symbolizing joy, togetherness, and good fortune for the season ahead. The ceremony concluded with a lavish spread of snacks and beverages by the poolside, creating the perfect prelude to the holidays.

Adding his thoughts, Mr. Balaji M, CEO, Clarks Exotica, said, “At Clarks Exotica, we believe every celebration is an opportunity to create lasting memories. The annual cake mixing reflects the values we hold close, community, warmth, and connection. Seeing our guests, residents, and team members come together in such high spirits reminds us that hospitality is ultimately about people, not places. This event marks not just the start of the festive season, but also a renewed chapter in our brand’s story.”

As the resort prepares to unveil its new brand identity, this year’s cake mixing served as a joyful beginning, blending time-honoured tradition with forward-looking energy. With festive cheer in the air and a sense of anticipation for what’s to come, Clarks Exotica continues to set the tone for memorable celebrations and meaningful connections.