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By Nishang Narayan
Published on June 29, 2024
In 2023, Indian nationals faced substantial financial losses amounting to EUR 12.1 million due to rejected Schengen visa applications. This places India among the top five nationalities experiencing the highest rejection rates for Schengen visas, underscoring the financial burden on those attempting to travel to Schengen countries.
Out of the 151,752 visa requests filed by Indian applicants, a significant number were denied. This situation reflects a broader trend of high rejection rates among certain nationalities, with Turkish nationals facing the highest monetary loss of EUR 13.5 million, followed by Algerians at EUR 13.3 million, Moroccans at EUR 10.9 million, and Chinese applicants at EUR 4.8 million, despite having one of the highest approval rates.
In 2023, Schengen states rejected a total of 1.6 million visa applications, generating EUR 130 million in funds, according to SchengenNews. The rejection rate, representing the proportion of visas denied relative to the total number of applications, was notably high among African and Asian countries. Comoros had the highest rejection rate at 57.7%, followed by Pakistan (48.2%), Guinea-Bissau (47.9%), Ghana (46.7%), and Mali (46.4%).
For Indian applicants, the high rejection rates and associated financial losses highlight the challenges faced in securing Schengen visas. Many applicants bear the cost of application fees without obtaining the desired visa approval, leading to frustration over "wasted money."
BLS International Opens New Visa Application Centre in Mumbai
To address the growing demand for visas, BLS International has opened a new visa application centre in Mumbai. Located at Nariman Point, the 5,200 square foot centre is designed to process approximately 1,000 visa applications per day. While primarily focusing on visa applications for Spain, the centre will also handle visa services for Slovakia, Egypt, Gambia, Morocco, and South Korea, catering to both short-term and long-term travel needs.
Increased Schengen Visa Fees and New Multi-Entry Visa Regime
Starting June 11, 2024, Schengen visa fees increased from EUR 80 to EUR 90 for adult applicants and from EUR 40 to EUR 45 for children aged six to twelve. Countries not cooperating with the readmission of their irregularly staying citizens in the EU may see visa fees rise to EUR 135 or even EUR 180. This fee hike follows a European Commission decision aimed at addressing inflation and civil servants' salary adjustments, marking the first increase since February 2020.
Despite the increased fees, there is some relief for Indian travelers. The European Commission has introduced a new visa "cascade" regime for Indian nationals, easing access to multi-entry visas with extended validity. Indian nationals residing in India can now obtain a two-year multi-entry visa after lawfully using two visas within the previous three years. This can be followed by a five-year visa, allowing short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Growing Interest in European Travel Among Indians
Indian nationals have shown a growing interest in European travel, with a 43% increase in Schengen visa applications in 2023 compared to 2022. India ranked third in visa applications, with 966,687 filings. While the increased fees present a financial challenge, the new multi-entry visa regime could simplify travel plans for frequent visitors, potentially encouraging more Indians to explore European destinations.
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Published on June 12, 2025
In a tragic aviation incident, Air India Flight AI 171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed into the Meghani Nagar residential area in Ahmedabad minutes after takeoff on June 12, 2025, leaving behind thick plumes of smoke and widespread panic. The flight was bound for London Gatwick and carried 242 people on board, including 230 passengers and 12 crew members.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the aircraft took off from Runway 23 of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport at 1:39 PM IST. Within moments, the pilots issued a MAYDAY distress call. However, air traffic control (ATC) received no response after that.
The aircraft — tail number VT-ANB — crashed just outside the airport perimeter, in the densely populated Meghani Nagar locality. Capt. Sumit Sabharwal, a seasoned pilot with over 8,200 flying hours, was in command, accompanied by co-pilot Clive Kunder, who had logged 1,100 hours.
Residents of Meghani Nagar reported a massive explosion and intense flames engulfing nearby homes. Local authorities, NDRF teams, fire brigades, and medical responders rushed to the spot. At least 50 fatalities are suspected, though official numbers are still awaited as rescue teams continue to clear the debris.
Nearby hospitals have been placed on high alert, with a disaster response protocol activated. Multiple ambulances are ferrying the injured to civil hospitals across the city.
Aircraft: Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner
Registration: VT-ANB
Flight Route: Ahmedabad to London Gatwick (AI 171)
Pilot in Command: Capt. Sumit Sabharwal (8,200 hrs)
Co-Pilot: Clive Kunder (1,100 hrs)
Passengers: 230
Crew: 12
“Flight AI171, operating Ahmedabad-London Gatwick, was involved in an incident today, 12 June 2025. At this moment, we are ascertaining the details and will share further updates at the earliest,”– Air India, on social platform X
The DGCA and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have launched a joint investigation into the crash. Authorities are examining black box data, maintenance records, and ATC logs.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu and Home Minister Amit Shah are overseeing emergency measures. A helpline for affected families is being set up by Air India and the Gujarat government. Additional NDRF units are en route.
This incident marks a rare and deeply tragic moment in India's aviation history and is believed to be the first-ever crash of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner since the model entered service in 2009. The crash raises pressing questions about emergency communication protocols, technical inspection routines, and aircraft performance post takeoff.
HospitalityNews joins the nation in mourning and extends deepest condolences to all affected. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
Image & Video Credit: [Photographer/Agency Name] via [Platform, e.g., X/Twitter or Getty Images]
Published on June 8, 2025
Planning a seamless, unforgettable trip doesn’t have to be stressful. At VIT Travel, they craft meaningful journeys across Italy, France, Belgium, and Luxembourg — managing every detail from start to finish.
Signature itineraries that blend handpicked stays with immersive, cultural experiences — crafted for the sophisticated explorer.
Luxury transfers with English-speaking chauffeurs and expert driver-escorts who bring destinations to life with insight and charm.
From vineyard to glass — explore Italy’s family-run wineries with guided tastings and rich storytelling.
A curated collection of elegant villas in Tuscany, Apulia, Amalfi, Provence & Côte d’Azur — perfect for clients seeking space, style, and soul.
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From stunning venues to flawless execution — VIT Incoming ensures destination weddings and events are effortlessly beautiful.
Through exclusive partnerships, clients gain access to world-class performances and private concerts for an unforgettable cultural touch.
Let’s create something unforgettable together. Reach out today to plan your clients' next extraordinary European journey.
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on June 7, 2025
In the serene landscape of Sarnath, just behind the historic Chaukhandi Stupa, a new spiritual landmark is rising to national and global prominence—The Garden of Spiritual Wisdom. Fast becoming one of India’s top emerging destinations for spiritual tourism, this thoughtfully designed garden offers a unique blend of mindfulness, art, and cultural insight, deeply rooted in Buddhist and Indian philosophy.
More than just a tranquil garden, it’s a space for contemplation, learning, and connection. Through art installations, educational galleries, and serene landscapes, the Garden brings ancient teachings to life in a way that is both accessible and visually captivating. Visitors are invited to slow down and explore the timeless wisdom of India’s spiritual heritage in a format that is engaging and deeply peaceful.
The visionary behind this initiative is Umesh Mathur, Chief Functionary of Foundation For Learning Technologies, an NGO committed to promoting spiritual learning through videos, books, and cultural experiences. “Evenings in summers are the perfect time to visit the Garden,” says Mathur. “The serene atmosphere, combined with the warmth of the season, allows for deep reflection and an uplifting spiritual experience.”
The Garden includes various themed sections, such as:
The Gallery of Indian Philosophy
Buddhist Philosophy Zone
The Journey of the Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path
An Ayurvedic Plant Display, showcasing traditional herbs and their healing wisdom
Among the highlights is the Ayurvedic Garden, which brings together herbs from across India. Ayurveda, the country’s ancient system of natural healing, is represented here not just as a medical science but as a way of living in harmony with nature and inner balance.
Located just minutes away from the iconic Dhamek Stupa, the Garden adds a meaningful, interactive layer to any visit to Sarnath. Whether you are a pilgrim, a wellness traveler, or simply a seeker of peace, this evolving sanctuary offers a deep spiritual resonance and a modern-day reminder of ancient truths.
As the world turns to mindfulness and wellness for balance, the Garden of Spiritual Wisdom stands as a shining symbol of India’s enduring spiritual legacy—inviting all to explore, reflect, and reconnect.
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