Increased Budget Allocation Requested for 'Meet in India' Initiative

Increased Budget Allocation Requested for 'Meet in India' Initiative

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 12, 2024

Naveen Kundu, Managing Director of Ebixcash Travel Group and Chairman of MICE & Business Travel at FICCI, has formally requested an increased budget allocation for the "Meet in India" initiative. In a letter addressed to Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of Finance & Corporate Affairs, Kundu emphasized the critical need for enhanced financial support to maintain India's competitive edge as a premier destination for international conferences, meetings, and events.

"Meet in India" is an initiative designed to promote India as a top-tier location for international business and cultural exchanges. Kundu's letter highlights several key reasons for the budget increase:

  1. Enhanced International Visibility: A larger budget would enable India to attract more high-profile international conferences and events, boosting its global visibility as a preferred destination for business and cultural exchanges.

  2. Improved Infrastructure and Facilities: Additional funding would facilitate upgrades to infrastructure such as conference venues, accommodation facilities, and transportation networks, ensuring they meet the standards expected by international delegates and organizers.

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  3. Increased Participation: With a higher budget, the initiative could offer greater incentives for participation, such as subsidized registration fees for international delegates, grants for event organizers, and logistical support, encouraging more organizations to choose India as their event destination.

  4. Promotion and Marketing: Increased funding would also allow for intensified global marketing efforts, showcasing India's unique cultural heritage, technological advancements, and business potential to attract more international events and attendees.

Kundu stressed that the global landscape of meetings and events has evolved, with neighboring countries significantly increasing their budgets for similar initiatives. To remain relevant and successful, India must enhance its financial support for "Meet in India." He concluded by urging the government to view the increased budget allocation not merely as an expense but as a strategic investment to bolster India's global standing and drive economic growth.

Kundu's appeal underscores the importance of international meetings and events in showcasing India's capabilities and fostering global collaborations. The request for increased budget allocation is currently under review by the Ministry of Finance.


9 Enchanting Restaurants & Hotels to Visit This Christmas

9 Enchanting Restaurants & Hotels to Visit This Christmas

By Hariharan U

Published on November 29, 2025

This season comes with its own charm, and if you’re looking for places that truly feel festive, here’s a handpicked list of nine restaurants, cafés, and hotels that have gone all out to make Christmas warm, joyful, and experience-driven.

1. Late Checkout*
Late Checkout* in Lower Parel takes on a beautiful holiday mood with soft lights, rich festive colours, and a cosy vibe that instantly feels welcoming. Set inside a restored textile warehouse, the space blends industrial-chic interiors with snug corners and a lively cocktail room. Whether it's a quiet festive date or a fun group night out, the easygoing atmosphere encourages guests to linger, sip winter cocktails, and enjoy the season comfortably. With its design-led aesthetic and warm Christmas spirit, it makes for a perfect holiday hangout.

2. JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar
JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar brings the festive season alive with elegant décor, warm lighting, and a cheerful Christmas atmosphere. JW Café rolls out indulgent festive brunches, while AUTM JW Lounge serves winter-inspired cocktails that match the mood of the season. The hotel’s hospitality, seasonal menus, and comforting ambience come together to create a setting that feels refined yet homely, making it one of the most charming Christmas destinations in the city.

3. Della Resorts & Adventure
Della Resorts & Adventure introduces its Christmas Festive Package for 2025, designed for a relaxed, feel-good holiday. The two-night stay begins at ₹34,000 and focuses on small, thoughtful experiences—slow mornings, comforting breakfasts, and an Adventure Day Pass for playful fun. Guests also get access to The Vegas Noelat, the resort’s annual Christmas production, and festive drinks at Café 24. A hearty Christmas Brunch, a traditional pudding takeaway, and kid-friendly highlights like Santa Meet-and-Greet and gingerbread decorating add warmth to the holiday. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a quiet but festive break away from the city rush.

4. Sofitel Mumbai BKC
Sofitel Mumbai BKC takes on a glowing, cosy holiday look with festive décor and cheerful accents. Guests can pick from a variety of Christmas dining experiences—brunch at Pondichery Cafe, Indian festive dinners at Jyran, or traditional thalis at Tuskers. Each menu is crafted with seasonal flavours that bring out the essence of the holidays. Add to that relaxing spa sessions and Sofitel’s signature hospitality, and you get an experience that feels warm, indulgent, and perfectly festive.

5. Harajuku Tokyo Cafe & Bakehouse
Harajuku Tokyo Café turns into a colourful Christmas wonderland with twinkling lights and bright installations that match its playful Japanese-inspired look. The Bakehouse showcases desserts that are almost too pretty to touch, and their exclusive Christmas cocktail menu adds to the holiday excitement. It’s the ideal spot for those who love aesthetic corners, festive photos, and sweet, comforting treats.

6. Amelia BKC
Amelia BKC brings a bold holiday vibe with its dramatic interiors—deep reds, black accents, unique lighting, and statement décor. With warm Christmas lights and luxe festive touches blending seamlessly into the space, it becomes a striking backdrop for dinners, celebrations, and stylish December nights. If you're looking for a place that feels festive yet modern, Amelia stands out beautifully.

7. Torii
At Torii in Khar, festive elegance takes centre stage. The restaurant’s rich textures, sculptural elements, and warm lighting get an added Christmas glow, making it perfect for intimate dinners or quiet festive gatherings. The décor remains refined and tasteful, giving the place a soft, holiday-ready charm throughout the month.

8. Sthamba
Sthamba Brewery in Versova turns up the Christmas energy with bright decorations, playful lighting, and a buzzing ambience. Known for its upbeat crowd and industrial-cool interiors, the brewery adds a festive twist with a special Christmas menu and lively music. It’s a great pick for year-end outings, cheerful nights with friends, and celebrations that are full of warmth and fun.

9. Moussestruck
Moussestruck embraces the season with cosy décor, a warm festive glow, and a delightful spread of strawberry specials and winter desserts. The space is aesthetic and inviting, perfect for anyone who enjoys sweet treats and holiday-themed cafés. Whether you’re visiting for the desserts or the festive vibe, Moussestruck makes for a lovely Christmas outing.


SOTC Travel Opens First Store in Anand, Expands Footprint in Gujarat

SOTC Travel Opens First Store in Anand, Expands Footprint in Gujarat

By Hariharan U

Published on November 29, 2025

SOTC Travel, a leading omnichannel Travel and Tourism Company, has opened its first franchise outlet in Anand, Gujarat, expanding its retail presence to five locations across the State. Anand has emerged as an important travel source market with strong interest in world-class holidays, prompting SOTC to strengthen its footprint in the region.

Known for its growing economy, prominent educational institutions, and rising urban affluence, Anand offers strong potential for travel-related businesses. The new outlet is designed to serve both leisure and business travellers with a wide portfolio of offerings, including domestic and international group tours, personalised holidays, cruises, and value-added services like travel insurance, making holiday planning simpler and more convenient.

Gujarat & Anand Travel Preferences

  • Top domestic and subcontinent destinations: Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Andaman, Bhutan, Sri Lanka

  • Top international destinations: Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand, Bali, Japan, South Africa, Egypt

  • Emerging interests: luxury cruises, Northern Lights experiences, self-drive holidays, island stays (Maldives, Mauritius), and adventure trips to Ladakh and the North-East

  • Top customer groups: multi-generational families, honeymooners, working professionals, millennials, and Gen Z

  • Average holiday duration: 4–6 days for domestic or short-haul, 10–12 days for long-haul trips

Store Contact Details

SOTC Holiday World Outlet
Narayan Empire, No. 103–104, Beside Panchal Hall,
Anand–Vidyanagar Road, Anand, Gujarat 38800

Speaking about the launch, Rakesh Bawa, Senior Vice President & Head – Holidays, SOTC Travel Limited, said, Opening our first store in Anand is a strategic step in strengthening SOTC’s presence in Gujarat. Anand’s growing economy, strong educational base and rising affluence make it an important hub for travel demand. By expanding here, we are addressing the evolving needs of customers who want convenient, world-class holiday solutions. Gujarat is a key growth market for us, and Anand will play a significant role in driving our future expansion in the region. My team and I look forward to welcoming our customers at this new location and delighting them with exceptional travel offerings.”

About SOTC TRAVEL

SOTC Travel Limited, a step-down subsidiary of Fairfax Financial Holdings through Thomas Cook (India) Limited, is a leading omnichannel travel company operating across leisure, incentive and business travel. Established in 1949, SOTC has built a legacy of more than 75 years and has served millions of travellers across India and the world.

The brand has won multiple industry accolades, including the PATA Gold Awards 2025, MaxiiiMICE Awards 2025, SATTE Awards 2025, and recognitions at World Travel Awards 2024, E4M Maverick Awards 2024, and ET Travel & Tourism Awards.

For more information, visit the official website.


Etihad and Vietnam Airlines Announce New Codeshare and Loyalty Partnership

Etihad and Vietnam Airlines Announce New Codeshare and Loyalty Partnership

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 23, 2025

Etihad Airways and Vietnam Airlines have taken their partnership forward with the launch of a new codeshare agreement. This move builds on Etihad’s recently introduced Abu Dhabi–Hanoi service, creating smoother travel options between the UAE and Vietnam.

With this partnership, Etihad guests can now book onward journeys to major domestic destinations in Vietnam as well as popular cities across Asia, all on a single ticket. Travellers also benefit from one check-in and automatic baggage transfer, making Abu Dhabi an easy connection point to the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.

Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer, Etihad Airways, said: "This partnership with Vietnam Airlines delivers significant value to our guests by unlocking access to some of Asia's most dynamic and popular destinations. Our new Abu Dhabi-Hanoi service has been warmly received, and this codeshare agreement transforms it into a gateway to Vietnam's most exciting cities. Combined with our frequent flyer partnership, which enables loyalty members of both airlines to earn and redeem miles across our combined global networks, this collaboration underscores our commitment to providing our guests with greater flexibility, broader reach, and superior travel experiences."

From Vietnam Airlines’ perspective, this collaboration builds on the Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier. Nguyen Quang Trung, Director of Corporate Planning and Development, Vietnam Airlines, said: “Vietnam Airlines is pleased to advance our partnership with Etihad Airways through this new codeshare agreement, following the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2024. The collaboration offers seamless access to Etihad’s network across the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, while allowing more travellers to experience Vietnam Airlines’ signature warmth and hospitality. Together with our expanded frequent-flyer partnership, this agreement enhances convenience, broadens destination choices, and strengthens tourism and economic ties between Vietnam and the UAE.”

The rollout of the codeshare will take place in phases. As it expands, passengers of Vietnam Airlines will gain access to six destinations beyond Abu Dhabi, Athens, Addis Ababa, Bahrain, Muscat, Cairo, and Istanbul, opening up a wider network across the Middle East, Europe, and Africa through Etihad’s strong connectivity.

Etihad and Vietnam Airlines already have a frequent flyer partnership in place. Launched in July 2025, it allows Etihad Guest and Lotus Miles members to earn and redeem miles across both airlines’ networks. This loyalty integration adds more value to the newly announced codeshare, giving travellers broader options and smoother travel experiences.

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