India's Big Move: Ministry of Tourism Hosts MICE Industry Roundtable

By Author

Published on December 1, 2023

The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, is set to organize a significant Industry Roundtable focused on Developing India as a premier Global MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) Destination. This important event is scheduled to take place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on November 30, 2023.

India’s current G20 Presidency has already set the stage for showcasing its capabilities as a MICE destination, with more than 200 meetings organized across 56 cities. This has generated a remarkable level of national and international interest, highlighting India’s robust MICE infrastructure and its rich cultural and natural heritage. The Ministry of Tourism is actively working to capitalize on this momentum, aiming to firmly position India as a global leader in the MICE industry.

The roundtable will convene CEOs and Senior Leaders from the MICE industry to brainstorm and formulate strategies to further elevate India's status as a global MICE destination. The Ministry has developed a model for establishing a city-level MICE Promotion Bureau in key MICE destinations. This initiative is designed to facilitate and promote cities as ideal MICE venues. The roundtable will seek input and feedback from industry experts on this City MICE Bureau model, which is intended to act as a one-stop solution for organizing events and conferences in the city, working in tandem with both public and private sectors.

In addition, the Ministry of Tourism has launched a dedicated brand, ‘Meet in India’, to specifically market India as a MICE destination. Various promotional campaigns are being executed on social media platforms in collaboration with State Governments and industry partners. The goal of this roundtable is to gather feedback and suggestions from these stakeholders to develop a cohesive vision and action plan for the advancement of the MICE sector in India.

This initiative underscores the Ministry's commitment to enhancing India’s profile as a MICE destination and aligns with broader efforts to boost tourism and economic growth through the development of this sector.

ITC Increases Stake in Oberoi Group and Leela Mumbai Ahead of Hotel Arm Demerger

By Nishang Narayan

Published on December 20, 2024

In a strategic move ahead of the January 1, 2025, demerger of its hotel business, ITC has increased its stakes in two major players in the Indian hospitality industry. ITC has raised its shareholding in EIH Ltd, the parent company of Oberoi Hotels, to 16.13%, and in HLV Ltd, which owns The Leela Mumbai, to 8.11%.

As of September 2024, ITC held a 13.69% stake in EIH. By acquiring an additional 2.44%, equivalent to 1,52,32,129 equity shares, ITC now commands a 16.13% stake in the company. Similarly, ITC’s stake in HLV Ltd has increased from 7.58% to 8.11%, following the purchase of 34,60,829 equity shares.

In a regulatory filing, ITC announced, “...the company today has acquired 2.44 percent of the share capital (comprising 1,52,32,129 equity shares of INR 2 each) of EIH Ltd and 0.53 percent of the share capital (comprising 34,60,829 equity shares of INR 2 each) of HLV Ltd, from Russell Credit Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of the company.”

This move is seen as a part of ITC’s preparation for the demerger of its hotel business, ITC Hotels, from its parent group. The demerger, set to take effect from January 1, 2025, is expected to unlock greater value for ITC’s stakeholders and enhance its focus on core operations.

With the increased stakes, ITC is cementing its presence in the premium and luxury hospitality segments, strengthening its relationship with iconic brands like Oberoi Hotels and The Leela Mumbai.

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Bangkok’s Funk Meets Bangalore: FunkyTown x Muro Collaboration

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Published on November 27, 2024

Mark your calendars for November 29th and 30th, 2024, as FunkyTown, Bangkok’s culinary sensation, teams up with Muro, Bangalore, for two nights of bold, boundary-pushing flavors. Led by the talented team of Pae Ketumarn, Earth Pirwkram, and Theo from FunkyTown and Sarnies Thailand, the event promises an extraordinary menu of innovative small bites and cocktails exploring the depth of Thai cuisine with a unique "funk level" scale, ranging from mild to daringly intense.

Guests can indulge in creations like Scallop Crudo Tart, Beef Tartare Cone, and Duck & Apple Snail Tsukune, paired with signature drinks such as the Durian Colada, Mango Martini, and the adventurous Green Curry Cocktail. Each dish and drink combines creative flair, sustainability, and locally rooted ingredients to offer a one-of-a-kind sensory experience.

Whether you prefer subtle tastes or are ready for the ultimate funky adventure, this exclusive collaboration is a must-attend for food and cocktail enthusiasts. Limited seats available—book now for an unforgettable celebration of Thai-inspired innovation and artistry!