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.


Jammu & Kashmir Charts Bold Tourism Revival with ₹5,600-Crore Expansion Plan

Jammu & Kashmir Charts Bold Tourism Revival with ₹5,600-Crore Expansion Plan

By Hariharan U

Published on August 17, 2025

Jammu & Kashmir’s tourism sector is experiencing a strong comeback, with more than 4 lakh devotees visiting the holy Amarnath shrine this season, a clear sign of the region’s renewed appeal after challenging years.

Speaking at the FAITH Conclave 2025, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah highlighted that J&K offers two distinct travel experiences: pilgrimage tourism in Jammu and leisure tourism in Kashmir. He stressed that both require sustained investment and innovation to ensure visitors not only arrive once but return for more.

“My success will not be measured by how many tourists come for the first time, but by how many choose to come back. For that, the quality of their experience is key,” Abdullah said.

To address crowding at popular spots and open fresh opportunities, the J&K Government, in partnership with the Government of India, has launched SPREAD, a ₹5,600-crore transformative project supported by multilateral funding, with hopeful participation from the World Bank. The initiative will develop nine purpose-built, sustainable tourism destinations across Jammu and Kashmir, backed by improved infrastructure, better connectivity, and modern amenities.

Adventure tourism is also on the agenda, with Gulmarg set for upgraded winter sports facilities in collaboration with private partners, aiming to meet global skiing and adventure standards. Trekking routes will reopen following comprehensive security reviews to ensure visitor safety.

The plan extends beyond leisure and adventure to untapped segments like pilgrimage and border tourism in Jammu—going beyond the famous Mata Vaishnodevi shrine to include vibrant experiences such as the Suchetgarh border tourism circuit.

Praising the region’s timeless charm, Abdullah remarked,“Kashmir was heaven on earth long before Kerala was God’s own country. The road ahead is now filled with light, and with the support of industry partners and associations like FAITH, we will continue to grow stronger.”

From the world’s tallest arched railway bridge to snow-covered ski slopes, rich spiritual heritage, and pristine landscapes, Jammu & Kashmir is positioning itself as a year-round destination. The government’s approach blends infrastructure development with sustainable practices, keeping hope, optimism, and faith at the heart of its tourism vision.


Bird Travels Partners with AEGEAN to Launch Direct Flights from New Delhi & Mumbai to Athens in 2026

Bird Travels Partners with AEGEAN to Launch Direct Flights from New Delhi & Mumbai to Athens in 2026

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 13, 2025

Bird Travels has announced its exclusive collaboration with AEGEAN, Greece’s flag carrier, to operate direct flights from New Delhi and Mumbai to Athens beginning in the first quarter of 2026. The flight schedule and ticket sales will be officially unveiled by the end of September.

AEGEAN will introduce two new Airbus A321neo XLR (Extra Long Range) aircraft, boasting a range of up to 10.5 hours. These aircraft feature enhanced comfort with only 138 seats, including 24 Business Class Suites equipped with fully lie-flat beds, aisle access, and modern amenities such as 4K inflight entertainment screens, satellite Wi-Fi, USB charging, and spacious overhead bins designed for long-haul comfort.

The airline plans to operate five weekly flights to New Delhi starting March 2026, followed by three weekly flights to Mumbai from May 2026. Bird Travels will act as the General Sales Agent (GSA) for AEGEAN in India, managing sales, marketing, customer service, and distribution.

Roland Jaggi, Chief Commercial Officer of AEGEAN, said, “We are delighted to partner with Bird Travels as we prepare to launch direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai to Athens. This marks a significant milestone in AEGEAN’s international expansion and reinforces our commitment to strengthening ties between Greece and India. The addition of the new Airbus A321neo XLR aircraft allows us to enhance our service offering for long-haul routes, providing Indian travellers with a premium gateway to Europe and beyond.”

Gaurav Bhatia, Executive Director of Bird Group, commented, “Our partnership with AEGEAN heralds exciting times for Indian travellers. AEGEAN’s reputation for quality service and connectivity perfectly complements our expertise in the Indian aviation market. Together, we look forward to offering seamless and elevated travel experiences from New Delhi and Mumbai to Athens and further into Europe.”

About Bird Travels and AEGEAN

Bird Travels, the flagship airline management company of India’s Bird Group, has over five decades of experience across airline representation, travel distribution, ground handling, and hospitality services. As AEGEAN’s exclusive GSA in India, Bird Travels will promote and manage the airline’s services across sales, marketing, and customer support.

Founded in 1999, AEGEAN is Greece’s largest and fastest-growing regional airline, serving 152 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa with a fleet of 83 modern Airbus aircraft. A member of the STAR ALLIANCE, AEGEAN has been named Europe’s Best Regional Airline by Skytrax 14 times in the past 16 years, underscoring its commitment to service excellence.

For more information, visit www.birdtravels.com.


Exclusive Shopping & Stays for Your Long Break

Exclusive Shopping & Stays for Your Long Break

By Hariharan U

Published on August 13, 2025

August 15th brings more than a mid-week breather, it’s your cue to pause, reset, and indulge in travel that lingers long after you return. Whether it’s barefoot luxury by the sea, alpine stillness, or the charm of a storied European city, these curated escapes promise to make your long weekend unforgettable.

Asia's Laidback Luxury in Nature’s Embrace

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The Legian Seminyak, Bali

An oceanfront icon where timeless design meets Balinese soul. From vivid sunsets to indulgent spa rituals, every moment here feels like it’s just for you.
Explore The Legian

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InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
Manta ray encounters, sunrise sandbank yoga, and villas designed for your pace. Even time slows to match your rhythm here.
 Discover Maamunagau

Europe - History, Heritage & Hidden Corners

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De L’Europe Amsterdam
A landmark blending old-world charm with modern culture. Riverside calm, art, and the best of Amsterdam—right at your feet.
 Discover De L’Europe

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Hotel Bellevue, Lošinj, Croatia
Modern Mediterranean luxury wrapped in pine-scented air and crystal Adriatic waters.
View Hotel Bellevue

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Boutique Hotel Alhambra, Lošinj, Croatia
An adults-only escape where refined heritage meets Adriatic elegance.
Explore Alhambra

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Kulm Hotel, St. Moritz
 An Alpine legend where understated glamour meets crisp mountain air and Swiss tradition even in summer, Explore Kulm Hotel

Exclusive Shopping – Parisian Elegance

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Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann
More than a department store—private salons, designer previews, and curated fashion experiences tailored just for you.
Luxury Shopping Experience

Plan Your Bespoke Break
Make this Independence Day weekend count. Whether you dream of oceanfront tranquility, alpine retreats, or cultural immersion, we’ll curate a journey that feels entirely yours.

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