India International Travel Mart: Cochin's Grand Success and Upcoming Events in 2025

India International Travel Mart: Cochin's Grand Success and Upcoming Events in 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 21, 2025

The much-anticipated India International Travel Mart (IITM) in Cochin concluded successfully on 19th January 2025, bringing together key stakeholders from the travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors. Hosted at Rajiv Gandhi Indoor Stadium, Kadavanthra, this premier event showcased a variety of domestic and international travel destinations, services, and innovative offerings. With participation from over 100 exhibitors from 15 Indian states and 5 international destinations, IITM Cochin proved to be a remarkable platform for promoting tourism and facilitating crucial industry connections.

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The event attracted over 3000 buyers from across Kerala and was attended by industry veterans and dignitaries, including Mr. Sejoe Jose, Mr. UC Riyaz, Ms. Mariyamma Jose, Mr. K Rajkumar, and Mr. Ashraf. The exhibition highlighted destinations ranging from pilgrimages and adventures to wildlife and heritage tourism. Visitors could explore diverse travel options and discover exciting new business partnerships, making IITM Cochin the perfect networking hub.

As IITM celebrates its 25th Anniversary, the event took on even greater significance. Gujarat Tourism was the Partner State, while Lakshadweep and Chandigarh were the Feature States, drawing attention to their rich cultural offerings and tourism opportunities. The exhibition saw a mix of international destinations like Turkey, Malaysia, Thailand, Nepal, and more, all aggressively marketing their products and services.

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The theme of sustainable tourism took center stage at IITM, promoting eco-friendly initiatives and conservation efforts to protect India’s natural and cultural heritage. As the world embraces responsible travel practices, the exhibition highlighted community-based tourism projects and wellness tourism initiatives, inspiring travellers to tread lightly on the destinations they explore.

Sphere TravelMedia Directors, Rohit Hangal and Sanjay Hakhu, emphasized the importance of collaboration, innovation, and sustainable practices in shaping the future of the travel industry. Rohit Hangal expressed excitement about the exhibition being a hub for future growth, while Sanjay Hakhu highlighted India’s emerging role as a key player in the global travel market.

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With domestic tourism continuing to thrive, driven by an increase in disposable incomes and cultural shifts, the Indian travel industry remains resilient and adaptable. The recovery from the pandemic and the rise of the middle class further bolster this growth, providing an optimistic outlook for the future of tourism in India.

Upcoming IITM Events in 2025:
The success of IITM Cochin sets the stage for upcoming editions across the country, promising unparalleled opportunities for travel professionals and industry partners:

  • IITM Kolkata: 14 – 16 February 2025

  • IITM Ahmedabad: 7 – 9 March 2025

  • IITM Chennai: 16 – 18 July 2025

  • IITM Bangalore: 24 – 26 July 2025

  • IITM Delhi: 24 – 26 September 2025

  • IITM Mumbai: 9 – 11 October 2025

  • IITM Pune: 27 – 29 November 2025

  • IITM Hyderabad: 4 – 6 December 2025

Each of these editions will provide valuable opportunities to explore the best of travel, hospitality, and tourism, while further solidifying IITM’s legacy as India’s premier travel trade exhibition. Stay tuned for more updates as the future of travel continues to unfold at these upcoming events.

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Highlights of IITM Cochin:

  • Gujarat Tourism as Partner State

  • Lakshadweep and Chandigarh as Feature States

  • Over 100 exhibitors showcasing 15 Indian states and 5 international destinations

  • A focus on sustainable tourism, eco-friendly initiatives, and wellness tourism

  • A premier B2B platform for networking and forging new partnerships in the tourism industry

Note: The IITM Cochin edition has concluded, but be sure to attend the next events happening soon across other cities!


Ayushakti Co-Founder Vaidya Smita Naram Shares Tips on Menstrual Hygiene

Ayushakti Co-Founder Vaidya Smita Naram Shares Tips on Menstrual Hygiene

By Vaidya Smita Naram of Ayushakti

Published on May 30, 2025

On the occasion of Menstrual Hygiene Day, renowned Ayurveda practitioner and Ayushakti Co-Founder Vaidya Smita Naram sheds light on the essential practices every woman should follow during menstruation to ensure better health and hygiene.

“Menstrual hygiene is simply normal hygiene that every female must maintain during her monthly cycle,” says Vaidya Smita Naram. Since menstrual bleeding occurs from the vaginal area, it’s crucial to keep the area clean—not just during periods but throughout the month—to prevent infections and maintain overall health.

She shares practical and easy-to-follow tips to promote safe menstrual hygiene:

 Choose Clean Period Products: Whether using pads, tampons, or cloth, ensure the material is clean. Change it every 3–4 hours to prevent bacterial infections. Opt for organic cotton pads, wash cloth pads in warm water, and dry them in the sun for natural sterilization.

 Wash the Area Regularly: Before every pad change, rinse and wash the area. Dry it with tissue to prevent moisture buildup. Use antibacterial water or Ayurvedic herbs like Neem leaves to further protect from infections.

 Avoid Scented Products: Fragranced period products may irritate sensitive skin and disrupt hormones. Stick to unscented, skin-friendly alternatives.

 Refrain from Sexual Activity: Avoiding intimacy during periods reduces the risk of STDs and UTIs, which can be more likely during this phase due to increased sensitivity.

 Practice Cleanliness: Always wash hands before and after using the restroom, especially in public places. Carry wet wipes or sanitizers for convenience.

 Track Your Cycle: Monitor emotions, symptoms, and medication through apps or calendars. Early tracking can help detect any unusual patterns.

 Stay Hydrated & Rest: Drink plenty of fluids and give your body the rest it needs. Periods are a window into physical health, and it's essential to listen to what your body is telling you.

Vaidya Smita encourages everyone to be mindful and respectful of their body’s needs during menstruation. “Not everyone has easy periods, and that’s okay. What matters most is understanding and supporting your body during this natural phase.”


How Fire-Resistant Are Our Hotels? A Closer Look at Safety Standards

How Fire-Resistant Are Our Hotels? A Closer Look at Safety Standards

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 13, 2025

The increasing number of hotel fires across regions has triggered growing concern over how well our hospitality spaces are prepared to handle such emergencies. Fires in hotels can lead to devastating consequences, including loss of life, serious damage to property, and lasting reputational harm. Strengthening fire safety measures is no longer optional—it's a vital necessity.

Effective fire safety begins at the foundation - literally. It starts with proper building design, continues with the careful selection and application of materials, and is enforced through adherence to required permits like building licenses, occupancy certificates, and operational approvals.

Recent cases have pointed to multiple causes behind hotel fires—user negligence, kitchen-related mishaps, outdated or faulty electrical systems, and delays in maintenance work. Many of these risks are made worse by the absence of comprehensive fire safety designs, allowing small incidents to turn into large-scale disasters.

Key Elements for Strengthening Fire Safety in Hotels:

Design Integration:

Incorporating both passive and active fire safety elements into architectural, electrical, and mechanical designs is essential. One of the most important aspects is ensuring well-thought-out evacuation routes to allow for the safe and timely exit of guests and staff.

Material Matters:

One major hazard is the use of combustible or non-certified materials on hotel facades. These can catch fire quickly, enabling flames and smoke to spread vertically through the building and putting occupants at serious risk. Every material used must have test certifications from accredited laboratories to ensure fire compliance. Without such validation, they must not be used, especially on high-rise structures.

Correct Application:

Even certified materials, if poorly installed or used incorrectly, can compromise an entire building’s fire resistance. Following proper application procedures is crucial to preserving the effectiveness of all safety measures.

Routine Inspections:

Improper usage of building spaces, unauthorized storage of flammable items, or renovations that bypass safety norms can reduce a structure’s fire resistance. Regular expert inspections help identify these vulnerabilities and ensure continued compliance with fire safety regulations.

One organization leading the way in this area is Efectis, a global expert in fire science and safety. With more than 70 years of experience and a highly qualified team, Efectis offers customized fire safety strategies for various types of buildings in Türkiye and beyond, ensuring structures meet the highest fire resistance standards.

As the hospitality industry continues to grow, fire safety must evolve as a priority. Through better planning, strict material compliance, and continuous inspections, the industry can ensure safer environments for everyone.


Rambagh Palace and IRIS Jaipur to host a Grand Dinner for JD Vance and 20 US trade delegates

Rambagh Palace and  IRIS Jaipur to host a Grand Dinner for JD Vance and 20 US trade delegates

By Author

Published on April 23, 2025

In a landmark moment of cultural diplomacy, Rambagh Palace, Jaipur’s crown jewel, Rambagh Palace will host US Vice President James David Vance, his family, and a 20-member White House delegation on April 23. The high-profile visit is being celebrated with a grand dinner in collaboration with IRIS Jaipur, renowned for its handcrafted, gold-plated metalware. Following its acclaimed showcase at the G20 Summit, IRIS Jaipur once again has the honour of serving foreign dignitaries.

The dinner will be held in the palace’s opulent 18th-century ballroom, Suvarna Mahal. A custom-designed collection of gold-plated dinner sets, tableware, cutlery, serve ware and trolley crafted by IRIS Jaipur, will headline the banquet, reflecting a seamless blend of traditional Rajasthani artistry and modern luxury.

Each guest will receive a golden napkin ring as a keepsake, engraved with their names on one side and Rambagh Palace Jaipur on the other side. The culinary showcase, presented on bespoke dinner sets, snack stands, hollowware, and barware, will highlight India’s gastronomic heritage with dishes prepared by Rambagh’s top chefs.

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A red-carpet walkway flanked by mirror-polished golden pipes crafted by IRIS’s metal artisans, creates a shimmering prelude, setting the tone for the regal evening. Antique brass welcome trolleys, lotus design trays with bowls, and garland stands will enhance the arrival experience with rich visual storytelling rooted in Jaipur’s artisanal traditions.

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Jaipur's IRIS artisans bring diplomatic hospitality to life at Rambagh Palace, showcasing the city's rich cultural heritage while adding a personal touch to the grandeur of the U.S. Vice President’s visit.

IRIS’s relationship with Rambagh spans decades, with its creations gracing the palace’s grandest suites and dining halls. This latest showcase, co-led by Ashok Rathore, General Manager of Rambagh Palace, and Rajeev Pabuwal, continues a legacy of reviving traditional craftsmanship for discerning global audiences.

As diplomacy unfolds over dinner, Jaipur stands tall not just as a cultural capital but as a beacon of craft-led global engagement.

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