Loading...
You have Successfully logged In !
Already have an account? Login
By clicking Register you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Don't have an account?Register
Enter your E-mail address below, We will send the verification code
Please enter the code send to
Didn't receive the email?Click to resend
Your password has been successfully reset!.
Please login again to access your account.
An OTP has been sent to
Enter the 4-digit code
By Nishang Narayan
Published on January 10, 2025
The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) has lauded the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Policy 2024-29, recognizing it as a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming the state into a premier global tourism destination. By integrating sustainability, economic growth, and cultural preservation, the policy sets a new benchmark for tourism development in India.
A key highlight of the policy is the Industry Status granted to the tourism and hospitality sector, underscoring its importance as a catalyst for economic growth, employment generation, and regional development. Backed by this recognition, the policy introduces fiscal incentives like 100% stamp duty reimbursement, land conversion charge waivers, and subsidies on fixed capital investments. These measures are designed to encourage private investments worth ₹25,000 crore and facilitate ease of doing business in the sector.
The policy outlines ambitious goals, including increasing the state's tourism Gross Value Added (GVA) from 4.6% to 8%, expanding employment contributions from 12% to 15%, and growing room inventory from 3,500 to 10,000 in the classified category. To achieve these targets, it proposes developing seven major hubs and 25 tourism circuits that focus on beach tourism, eco-tourism, Buddhist heritage, river cruises, and temple tourism.
With a strong emphasis on sustainability, the policy incorporates initiatives such as zero-emission zones, Blue Flag-certified beaches, and green-certified accommodations. It also prioritizes workforce development, offering skill enhancement programs in hospitality, eco-tourism, and specialized sectors like MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions).
Reacting to the policy, Mr. K. Syama Raju, President of FHRAI, expressed optimism, stating: "Recognizing tourism as an industry, coupled with substantial incentives and a focus on thematic circuits, will elevate Andhra Pradesh's appeal as a tourist destination. With its emphasis on sustainability and community empowerment, this policy has the potential to drive significant economic growth and create employment opportunities. FHRAI is eager to collaborate with the state government to realize these goals."
The policy also simplifies administrative processes with a single-window clearance system and the establishment of Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) to oversee tourism hubs and circuits. District-level hubs will further support investors and ensure streamlined project implementation.
FHRAI believes that the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Policy 2024-29 is a visionary roadmap that other states can emulate. By fostering sustainability, promoting inclusivity, and integrating private investments with infrastructure upgrades, the policy positions Andhra Pradesh as a leader in India's tourism sector.
The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), established in 1955, is the apex body of the Indian hospitality industry and the third-largest hospitality association globally. Representing the interests of the sector, FHRAI actively collaborates with government bodies, international organizations, and civil society to drive growth and innovation in India's tourism and hospitality landscape.
Subuthi Spa at Sterling Lake Palace Alleppey Wins Big at Spa...
Sterling Holiday Resorts proudly celebrates the recognition ...
Marriott India Plants the Seeds of a Greener Future: 100,000...
In an era where corporate responsibility and environmental c...
Coffee Sutra Opens Third Café in Jaipur, Elevates India’s Sp...
Coffee Sutra, the brainchild of celebrated restaurateur and ...
Tamil Nadu’s Vijay Kumar Wins James Beard Award, Puts Semma ...
In a historic win for Indian cuisine, Chef Vijay Kumar, hail...
Published on June 23, 2025
Thailand’s tourism sector continues its strong post-pandemic rebound, as the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) announced that over one million Indian tourists have already visited the country before the halfway mark of 2025.
This early milestone underscores Thailand’s enduring appeal for Indian travellers across leisure, luxury, wellness, and spiritual tourism segments. It also builds on the record-breaking momentum of 2024, when Thailand welcomed more than 2.1 million Indian visitors out of a total 35 million international tourists.
Several factors are fuelling this continued growth:
A visa exemption programme allowing up to 60-day stays
Strong air connectivity with multiple direct flights from cities across India
The newly launched Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) for smoother entry
A broad and diverse set of tourism experiences—from beach escapes and spa retreats to food trails and festivals
What’s especially noteworthy is the surge in travellers from Tier 2 and Tier 3 Indian cities such as Surat, Rajkot, Nagpur, and Nashik, reflecting a broader shift toward high-spend, experience-led travel from emerging markets.
In response to this growing demand, TAT is ramping up its engagement efforts with India through joint promotions, customised marketing campaigns, and trade events designed to promote longer stays and higher-value travel.
These initiatives are closely aligned with Thailand’s long-term strategy of encouraging sustainable and inclusive tourism, ensuring the country remains a top choice for Indian travellers not just now—but well into the future.
Saudia, the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, has reached a brand valuation milestone of $1.1 billion, marking an impressive 34% year-on-year growth, as revealed in the 2025 airline brand rankings by Brand Finance. This remarkable surge underscores the airline's strategic evolution and rising stature in global aviation.
Saudia now ranks 32nd globally in brand value among airlines, a notable leap since its debut in the Top 50 list in 2021 with a valuation of $506 million. In just four years, the brand has more than doubled in value, thanks to focused efforts in fleet enhancement, guest experience, and innovative initiatives.
The airline’s recent order of 105 Airbus aircraft highlighted its commitment to fleet modernisation and capacity expansion. At home, Saudia grabbed attention with BLVD Runway, a creative aviation-meets-entertainment concept aimed at engaging domestic travellers.
Globally, Skytrax honoured Saudia as the 'World’s Most Improved Airline' in 2024, a nod to its operational excellence and growing global presence. The airline has also maintained strong On-Time Performance (OTP) and received accolades for enhancing passenger experiences.
Commenting on this achievement, Khaled Tash, Chief Marketing Officer, Saudia Group, said:
“Achieving a brand value of $1 billion is a testament to our strategic initiatives and operational excellence, as well as the unwavering trust and loyalty of our guests. At Saudia, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation in aviation, ensuring that every journey with us is a step towards excellence.”
With this milestone, Saudia continues to strengthen its global positioning and reaffirm its role as a key player in the Kingdom’s ambitious aviation growth story.
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on June 21, 2025
After a five-year pause, the sacred Kailash Mansarovar Yatra via Sikkim’s Nathula Pass has resumed, marking a moment of cultural revival and international cooperation. The first batch of 33 Indian pilgrims was officially flagged off by Governor Om Prakash Mathur, along with two nodal officers and one doctor from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).
At the flagging-off ceremony, Governor Mathur shared his pride in seeing this revered journey once again take the route through Sikkim. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for reviving the pilgrimage and praised the Sikkim Government, ITBP, and Indian Army for their coordination in making it happen.
“It is a moment of immense pride for the state of Sikkim that this historic and spiritual journey is progressing through the sacred land of the state,” said the Governor, who also interacted with the pilgrims and wished them well.
The yatra, which was on hold due to the pandemic, is being seen not just as a spiritual revival, but also as a symbol of India-China goodwill. Pilgrims underwent strict medical screenings and a two-stage high-altitude acclimatisation process at the 18th Mile and Sherathang to prepare for the harsh conditions of the Himalayan region, where elevations cross 14,000 feet. An Indian Army official confirmed that all pilgrims had been medically cleared for the journey.
Sikkim’s Tourism Minister Tshering Thendup Bhutia noted that this moment was historic and beneficial for regional tourism.
“After 5 years, history is being created that devotees from all over India are coming here and getting ready to start the Mansarovar yatra. It gives publicity to Nathu La and adds value to Sikkim tourism,” he said.
Pilgrims expressed deep gratitude for the arrangements. Shalanda Sharma, one of the participants, shared,
“This yatra is starting again after five years through mutual agreement between the Government of India and the Government of China. The arrangements, the hospitality, and the medical attention, we’re truly grateful.”
Another pilgrim, Indar Sharma, appreciated the efficiency of the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC) and supporting authorities:
“We are carrying blessings and hope this yatra strengthens India-China ties and allows more pilgrims in the future.”
As per plan, the group was expected to cross over into the Chinese side through Nathula by 9:15 AM, where immigration processes would be completed before heading toward the sacred sites of Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake.
The yatra is being jointly organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation, and Indo-Tibetan Border Police, ensuring a secure and smooth journey for all pilgrims.
Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!
Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.
By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Advertise With Us
We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.
A platform dedicated to showcase the skills and creativity of hospitality professionals. Share your articles, videos and other content related to the industry and get recognized for your unique perspective and expertise. By posting your content and gaining likes from your own community, we'll categorize your talents and expose them to the hospitality world. Join our community of passionate hospitality professionals and let your talent shine!.
Already have an account?Login
By clicking you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.
Subscribe for ₹2,000 and receive our monthly magazine for one year (12 months) from the coming month and save 2 months cost.