Hon’ble Minister of Tourism to Inaugurate FHRAI’s 54th Annual Convention in Goa

Hon’ble Minister of Tourism to Inaugurate FHRAI’s 54th Annual Convention in Goa

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 9, 2024

Key Highlights of FHRAI's 54th Annual Convention:

  • The convention is themed "Tourism @2047: Incredible to Inevitable India - Driving Growth and Sustainability in a Mission Mode."

  • Scheduled from October 16th to 18th, 2024, at Taj Cidade de Goa, Horizon.

  • Inaugurated by the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.

  • Features include Business Sessions, Hospitality Excellence Awards, B2B and B2G Meetings, Hospitality Expo, and more.

The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), is thrilled to announce the upcoming 54th Annual Convention, scheduled to be held in the coastal state of Goa at Taj Cidade de Goa, Horizon from October 16th to 18th, 2024. Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, will inaugurate this Annual Convention on 16th October 2024.

The 54th FHRAI Annual Convention in Goa promises to be a celebration of India's vibrant tourism landscape under the theme “Tourism @2047: Incredible to Inevitable India - Driving Growth and Sustainability in a Mission Mode”. This theme aligns with the ambitious vision of a developed India by 2047, as envisioned by the Government of India.

The Annual Convention will also witness the esteemed presence of Dr. Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, Dr. Mohan Yadav, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Ms. V. Vidyavathi, Secretary, Shri. Suman Billa, Additional Secretary, and Ms. Manisha Saxena, Director General from the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

Pradeep Shetty, President of FHRAI, commented on the convention’s significance in shaping the future of India’s hospitality and tourism sectors, stating, "The 54th FHRAI Annual Convention in Goa is positioned to be a landmark event where industry leaders converge to strategize, innovate, and collaborate towards steady and sustainable growth of our industry. In alignment with its theme, this Convention will set the beginning of our sector’s journey towards 2047 where the Indian tourism industry is expected to be a $3 trillion tourism powerhouse. The Convention aims to showcase our industry’s prowess to be the key growth engine of our nation’s economy, inspiring new initiatives that will define the future of tourism in India. We are grateful to have the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism and other distinguished guests to join us. Around 1000 delegates from India and abroad are expected to attend the Convention and also enjoy Goa's cultural richness and natural beauty”.

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The 54th Annual Convention of FHRAI will be significant on account of a host a diverse range of programs including Business Sessions, B2B and B2G Meetings, Hospitality Expo, cultural showcases, and more.

FHRAI Hospitality Awards will be another significant attraction of the Annual Convention. These awards have been instituted by the Federation to encourage young industry professionals and recognize excellence in the hospitality industry. Over the years, these awards have firmly established themselves as being among the most credible and coveted accolades in the hospitality industry.

FHRAI eagerly anticipates the participation of stakeholders, industry experts, and policymakers at the 54th Annual Convention in Goa, fostering collaboration and envisioning a robust future for tourism in India.

The Taj Cidade de Goa, Horizon, will host a diverse range of programs including Business Sessions, Hospitality Excellence Awards, B2B and B2G Meetings, Hospitality Expo, and more.

About Federation of Hotels and Restaurants Association of India

The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) is the apex body of the Indian hospitality industry. Founded in 1955, FHRAI is the third-largest hospitality association in the world and has diligently built on its rich legacy. The association is privileged to serve as the leading voice of the hotel and restaurant industry and plays a seminal role in supporting the growth trajectory of India's hospitality and tourism sectors. FHRAI provides a vibrant interface between the hospitality industry, government, regulatory bodies, academia, international organizations, civil society, and the media.


Operation Sindoor Disrupts Air Travel: 27 Airports Closed, Over 400 Flights Cancelled

Operation Sindoor Disrupts Air Travel: 27 Airports Closed, Over 400 Flights Cancelled

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 9, 2025

As part of Operation Sindoor, commercial flights have been suspended at 27 airports across north, west, and central India. The move has led to widespread disruptions in air travel, with over 430 flights cancelled across carriers like IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Akasa Air, and Air India Express.

To ensure safety, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has issued new advisories mandating heightened airport security across the country. All passengers are now required to undergo Secondary Ladder Point Checks (SLPC), and visitor access to airport terminals has been suspended until further notice.

Aviation authorities have also instructed airports to ensure that all CCTV systems are fully functional and have directed the deployment of air marshals based on priority and random selection.

Airlines have issued urgent travel advisories.

  • Air India posted: Passengers are advised to arrive at airports at least 3 hours before departure. 

  • SpiceJet posted: Check-in closes 75 minutes prior to flight. and Akasa Air urging passengers early arrival and limiting cabin baggage to one handbag up to 7 kg.

  • All passengers must carry valid government-approved photo ID for airport entry.

List of Airports Closed under Operation Sindoor:

Chandigarh, Srinagar, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Bhuntar, Kishangarh, Patiala, Shimla, Kangra-Gaggal, Bathinda, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Halwara, Pathankot, Jammu, Leh, Mundra, Jamnagar, Hirasar (Rajkot), Porbandar, Keshod, Kandla, Bhuj.

According to flight tracking services like Flightradar24, the airspace over India’s western corridor from Kashmir to Gujarat, currently shows minimal civilian air traffic, highlighting the scale of the shutdown. Airports are expected to resume commercial operations by 5:29 AM on Saturday, May 10, but travelers are urged to stay updated through airline channels.

Passengers are strongly advised to recheck flight schedules, plan ahead, and cooperate with the enhanced security procedures to ensure smooth transit during this sensitive period.


A Royal Wedding in the Tropics: How Indian Couples Are Making Thailand Their Celebration Hub

A Royal Wedding in the Tropics: How Indian Couples Are Making Thailand Their Celebration Hub

By Nishang Narayan

Published on May 7, 2025

In a time where celebrations are becoming more meaningful and curated, Indian couples are making a clear choice: Destination weddings. Through the lens of Mr. Dilbir Sahni—affectionately known in the industry as Bob—this evolving trend comes to life. As the founder of IndoBangkok, a company at the forefront of luxury events and weddings in Thailand, Bob shares insights shaped by two decades of experience creating unforgettable moments for Indian families.

Once considered aspirational, destination weddings are now a conscious decision. The trend is catching on fast—up from 18% in 2022 to 26% in 2024. And leading this dreamy escape? Thailand.

Gone are the days of crowded banquet halls and logistical juggling. Today’s couples are opting for intimate beachfront vows, hilltop pheras, and royal-themed parties at luxury resorts. Thailand, with its postcard-perfect landscapes, warm hospitality, and ease of planning, offers a spectacular stage for love stories to unfold.

Why More Couples Are Choosing Destination Weddings

So what’s fueling this shift? It’s about simplifying the complex. Destination weddings allow couples to focus on what really matters: spending meaningful time with loved ones. With everyone gathered in one location, the chaos of multiple venues fades away, replaced by a relaxed, immersive vibe.

And it’s not just better for the couple—it’s a win for guests too. Think of it as a wedding with built-in vacation vibes. Guests enjoy quality time, beautiful settings, and great food—all while creating memories that go far beyond the ceremony.

The impact is showing in travel numbers. In 2024, Thailand welcomed over 2.1 million Indian tourists, many attending weddings. The message is clear: this is not just a trend—it’s a movement.

Why Thailand?

Thailand has become the ultimate canvas for Indian weddings. Whether it’s a sunset beach affair, a jungle-meets-ceremony celebration in Chiang Mai, or a royal-style event in a palace-like resort, Thailand offers variety without overwhelming complexity.

Short flights, simple visa processes, and English-speaking staff ease the journey. Add to that a robust network of Indian planners, chefs who know their dal makhani from their dal tadka, and venues that are nothing short of magical—and you’ve got a celebration that feels both familiar and fresh.

Best of all? The country offers five-star luxury at surprisingly affordable prices, making premium experiences accessible for a broader range of families.

Weddings as a New Form of Travel

Weddings are no longer just personal milestones. They’re catalysts for economic and cultural exchange. Each wedding brings life to a destination—boosting tourism, creating local jobs, and reviving small businesses. In many ways, these celebrations are a new kind of travel, one rooted in love, community, and shared joy.

Final Thoughts

Thailand isn’t just a backdrop—it’s becoming an integral part of Indian wedding stories. With its blend of beauty, accessibility, and cultural understanding, it’s no surprise that Thailand is emerging as India’s favourite wedding playground.

Because at the heart of every great wedding is a story worth travelling for.


Air Travel Impacted as India Conducts Operation Sindoor

Air Travel Impacted as India Conducts Operation Sindoor

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 7, 2025

Several airports across northern India were temporarily shut down this morning as India launched ‘Operation Sindoor’, conducting targeted military strikes against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Srinagar airport was among the first to suspend operations, confirmed airport officials. Alongside Srinagar, other impacted airports included Leh, Jammu, Amritsar, and Dharamshala, as mentioned in a post by SpiceJet on X.

Air India announced that all its flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot would remain cancelled until 12 p.m. on Wednesday. Meanwhile, IndiGo stated that its Bikaner operations were also affected by the disruptions.

Airlines took to social media to alert passengers about potential delays and cancellations, urging them to check their flight status and plan their travel accordingly.

Flight tracking platforms showed no commercial flights operating north of New Delhi, reflecting the scale of the airspace shutdown. This situation will affect domestic air traffic in the northern part of India.

Further updates are expected in the coming hours.

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