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By Nithyakala Neelakandan
Published on October 21, 2024
Helsinki has been named the world’s most sustainable travel destination, securing the top spot in the latest Global Destination Sustainability (GDS) Index, released on October 16, 2024. This recognition highlights the Finnish capital’s commitment to environmentally friendly tourism and responsible urban development, surpassing over 100 cities worldwide.
The GDS Index evaluates destinations based on four key areas: Destination Management, Supplier Performance, Environmental Performance, and Social Performance. Helsinki excelled in Destination Management and Environmental Performance, placing first in both categories. The city also ranked second in Social Progress, reflecting its efforts to promote inclusive tourism and engage local businesses.
Nina Vesterinen & Jukka Punamaki GDS awards
“Being named the world’s most sustainable travel destination is proof of the long-term work that has been done in Helsinki. We are developing and growing tourism sustainably together with tourism operators and local residents. Achieving this ‘first place’ indicates that we are on the right path,” said Juhana Vartiainen, Mayor of Helsinki.
The city’s Climate Action Plan for Tourism and Events plays a central role in maintaining sustainable growth and aims to position Helsinki as a leader in sustainable tourism. Part of the broader strategy includes reaching carbon neutrality by 2030 through renewable energy adoption, energy-efficient buildings, and low-emission transportation solutions. More than 30% of the city’s bus fleet is already electrified, with over 30 kilometers of new tramlines expected to be operational in the next decade.
Helsinki from above
Helsinki also emphasizes social sustainability by supporting local businesses in their sustainability efforts and encouraging resident participation in tourism planning. The city actively measures the carbon footprint of tourism and collaborates with other international destinations to promote responsible travel practices.
Nina Vesterinen, Tourism Director for the City of Helsinki, noted that travelers are increasingly prioritizing sustainable travel options. “International studies show that travelers are increasingly seeking sustainable services, and there will be growing demand for destinations like Helsinki in the future,” she said.
Hurray Helsinki!
Helsinki’s first-place ranking in the GDS Index demonstrates the city’s ability to integrate environmental and social sustainability into tourism while aligning with global trends toward greener travel experiences.
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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on September 30, 2025
On the occasion of World Tourism Day, the Abhay Prabhavana Museum & Knowledge Centre has been recognised as one of India’s most distinctive cultural destinations. Conceptualised as a “Museum of Ideas,” it offers an immersive journey into India’s heritage, spiritual traditions, and enduring values that continue to inspire civilisation.
Spread across 65.5 hectares on the banks of the Indrayani River, Abhay Prabhavana is counted among the largest private museums in the world. It features over 30 galleries, 350 commissioned artworks, monumental sculptures, and storytelling spaces that connect visitors to the roots of Indian thought in a modern, engaging format. From recreations of ancient heritage sites like Dholavira and Jal Mandir to interactive galleries on Indic philosophy, the museum seamlessly blends history and innovation.
Highlights include the 13.2-metre Art Deco-style statue of Rishabhdev, regarded as the first teacher of civilisation, the 30.5-metre Manastambh symbolising humility, and the Plaza of Equanimity, a reimagined four-faced temple where values take precedence over form. Visitors can also enjoy high-quality vegetarian cuisine at the Sattva Food Court, making the destination a complete cultural retreat for families, students, and spiritual seekers.
Reflecting on the occasion, Dr. Abhay Firodia, Founder of Abhay Prabhavana, said, “Tourism, at its best, is about discovery, learning, and reflection. Abhay Prabhavana was created to be a destination where visitors can connect with India’s timeless values, understand the wisdom of our traditions, and take away insights that enrich their own lives. On Tourism Day, I invite travellers, students, and seekers of all ages to experience heritage as living knowledge, something to be felt, remembered, and carried forward.”
Every aspect of Abhay Prabhavana has been designed to engage both the eye and the mind. Expansive galleries use storytelling and design to enhance understanding, while sculptures and spaces inspire balance and reflection. Technology complements the experience without overshadowing it, allowing visitors to move seamlessly between history and imagination.
For travellers, the museum is more than just a stop on an itinerary, it is a lived journey that deepens their understanding of India’s cultural and spiritual spirit.
Located on the outskirts of Pune, the Abhay Prabhavana Museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting timeless Indic values inspired by Jainism. Spread across 65.5 hectares, it is among India’s largest privately owned museums. Conceptualised as a “Museum of Ideas,” it showcases Indian heritage through philosophy, art, history, and interactive storytelling. With curated exhibits, guided tours, and immersive experiences, the museum serves as a hub of inspiration for students, scholars, travellers, and cultural enthusiasts. More than a repository of history, it is a living space of learning, reflection, and dialogue that fosters deeper connections with India’s legacy.
Published on September 29, 2025
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has reported remarkable growth in digital adoption, positioning itself among India’s most advanced airports. The rise of self-service options reflects the wider industry shift toward technology-driven, contactless travel.
Between April 2024 and August 2025, more than 3.86 million boarding passes were printed using self-check-in kiosks. IndiGo led the adoption with 2.58 million, followed by Air India with 1.09 million and Air India Express with 53,301. Among international carriers, Air France accounted for 90,902 boarding passes, ahead of Emirates at 18,356 and Lufthansa at 18,017. In August 2025 alone, 264,414 boarding passes were printed, a 41.8 per cent increase compared to April 2024.
The airport’s 32 self-baggage drop (SBD) units processed over 7.15 lakh bags during this period, with average processing times of 17–20 seconds. Domestic airlines accounted for nearly 6 lakh bags, while international carriers such as KLM, Air France, Emirates, Lufthansa, and Swiss collectively handled over 70,000. SBD adoption grew steadily, with international use rising from 4.15 per cent in April 2024 to 13.9 per cent in August 2025, and domestic use increasing from 5.26 per cent to 6.28 per cent.
Biometric-enabled travel also surged, with 6.3 million passengers using DigiYatra e-gates between April 2024 and August 2025. Adoption rose from 12 per cent in April 2024 to 32 per cent by August 2025. With 46 e-gates and 40 facial recognition pods across both terminals, DigiYatra allows passengers to clear checkpoints in just 2–3 seconds.
This progress is supported by the airport’s modernised Airport Operations Control Centre (AOCC) and Aviio, an AI-powered platform by Adani Airports, which boosts predictive analytics, operational efficiency, and real-time collaboration. Additional innovations include autonomous cleaning robots, with upcoming plans for smart washrooms and expanded AI/ML applications.
With strong passenger response and continued investment in digital infrastructure, CSMIA is advancing toward global best practices, setting a new benchmark in efficiency and passenger experience.
Published on September 24, 2025
SpiceJet has received another boost to its financial credibility, with Acuité Ratings & Research upgrading the airline’s long-term credit rating to BB (Stable) from BB- (Stable). This marks the company’s second upgrade in just a month, underlining its improved liquidity, stronger financial discipline, and clear operational roadmap. The short-term rating has been reaffirmed at A4+.
The upgrade comes after Acuité considered fresh details provided by the airline. Earlier, the rating agency had already raised SpiceJet’s rating to BB- (Stable). The latest revision reflects greater confidence in the airline’s turnaround efforts, including new aircraft inductions, settlements with key lessors, and structured financial planning.
A major driver of the improved outlook is SpiceJet’s revival strategy. The airline is preparing to induct new leased aircraft, nearly triple its daily flights to around 280, and return grounded planes to service. A recent settlement with Carlyle Aviation Partners is also expected to strengthen liquidity by offering cash credits for future maintenance, while restructuring lease debt by converting part of it into airline ownership.
Acuité noted the importance of SpiceJet’s seasoned leadership in shaping this progress. Chairman and Managing Director Ajay Singh, with over 15 years in aviation, has been credited with steering past turnarounds and strengthening the company’s growth path. The agency also highlighted the airline’s diversified revenue model as a strong foundation for long-term resilience.
Sharing his views on the development, Debojo Maharshi, Chief Business Officer at SpiceJet, said:
“The back-to-back upgrades in our credit ratings are a strong validation of SpiceJet’s consistent efforts to strengthen its financial foundation and build a resilient future. With fresh aircraft inductions, restructured agreements with lessors, and a focused strategy on growth and profitability, SpiceJet is well positioned to expand operations, enhance customer experience, and create long-term value for all stakeholders.”
Acuité further added that SpiceJet’s diversified revenue streams and expanding fleet capacity are set to support the airline’s revenue profile in the near to medium term, reflecting a positive outlook for India’s aviation market.
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