Cleartrip, a Flipkart company, has announced the appointment of Manoj Awasthi as its new Chief Technology Officer (CTO). In his new role, Awasthi will lead the company’s tech charter, uniting engineering, data, and infrastructure to build a platform that is more scalable and user-focused.

The appointment aligns with Cleartrip’s ambition to become a tech-first travel brand that simplifies travel planning for modern Indian users. With Awasthi on board, the brand is aiming to enhance its platform’s scalability and innovation through intuitive design and tech-led differentiation.

Awasthi brings with him over two decades of experience in engineering leadership, platform innovation, and digital transformation. Prior to joining Cleartrip, he served as the Chief Technology and Product Officer at fintech company Julo, where he was instrumental in launching key products like JULO Turbo, Klikilat, and Protect+, while streamlining core technology and product engineering divisions. He has also held leadership positions at Tokopedia and Adobe.

Ramesh Gururaja, Senior Vice President, Consumer Products & Growth at Flipkart, said, “Manoj’s appointment is a big step forward in building a future-ready leadership team with strong, cross-functional expertise. His arrival aligns perfectly with our vision of strengthening our tech platform to drive long-term growth and innovation.”

Commenting on his new role, Manoj Awasthi said, “I’m excited to join Cleartrip, a brand that’s all about making travel planning a joyful experience. At Cleartrip, I look forward to modernizing the tech stack, encouraging faster experimentation, and building systems that make travel planning simpler and smoother for our users.”

In a historic move for the global tourism industry, Shaikha Al Nowais has been officially nominated to serve as the next Secretary-General of UN Tourism, beginning January 2026. The nomination came during the 123rd session of the UN Tourism Executive Council held in Segovia, Spain, and marks the first time a woman has been chosen to lead the organisation in its 50-year history.

An accomplished Emirati business leader, Al Nowais brings over 16 years of expertise in hospitality. She currently serves as the Corporate Vice President of Rotana Hotels and is a well-respected figure in the tourism ecosystem. Beyond her executive role, she also chairs the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s Tourism Working Group and is a board member of both the Abu Dhabi Businesswomen Council and Les Roches Hospitality Academy.

Her nomination not only underscores her personal accomplishments but also signals a significant step forward in enhancing gender representation at the highest levels of international tourism leadership.

The Segovia session was also a moment of reflection and review, as outgoing Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili looked back on eight years of transformative leadership. “We have put tourism at the forefront of the global agenda to enhance its competitiveness and economic value,” he said. He highlighted the organisation’s focus areas, including education, investment, rural development, women’s empowerment, and innovation.

In addition to leadership transitions, the Council reviewed sectoral progress as global travel continues to rebound. According to the UN Tourism Barometer released in May 2025, international tourist arrivals surpassed 300 million in the first quarter of the year—14 million more than the same period in 2024.

Member States also received updates on the expansion of the UN Tourism Online Academy, improved data systems, and fresh initiatives in sustainable tourism. One of the session’s major announcements was the launch of the first UN Tourism Thematic Office on Innovation for Africa. Based in Rabat and developed in partnership with Morocco’s Ministry of Tourism, the office will drive innovation-focused tourism projects across the continent in alignment with the UN Tourism 2030 Agenda for Africa.

As Shaikha Al Nowais prepares to take the reins in 2026, her appointment represents both a milestone and a message: the future of global tourism will be driven by inclusive leadership and bold innovation.

This Father’s Day, JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa is rolling out the perfect way for dads to relax, recharge, and enjoy a well-deserved getaway. Known as a golfer’s paradise with two stunning Ted Robinson-designed courses, the resort is offering a special Stay & Play Golf Package alongside tailored spa treatments that recognize dads deserve some pampering too.

Tee Off in Style: Stay & Play Golf Package

Golf lovers can take advantage of the exclusive package, which includes:

• Accommodation for two guests

• Daily golf for two on the scenic Valley or Palm Courses (greens and cart fees included)

• Unlimited access to golf practice facilities such as driving ranges, putting, and chipping areas

• $50 daily resort credit

• 20% discount at the Golf Pro Shop

• A complimentary “19th Hole” beverage at Aquifer65 after your round—choose from wine, beer, non-alcoholic drinks, or a well drink

Use promo code GOF to book this special offer, valid from June 1 through September 30, 2025.

Spa Treatments Made for Dad

Available throughout June, dads can select from three specially designed treatments priced at $249 each. Each treatment comes with a Jack Black Men’s Lip Balm to take home. Bookings can be made directly at the spa by calling (760) 341-1874. The treatments include:

• Men’s Rescue Facial: Ideal for the outdoorsman, this facial helps repair environmental damage caused by sun exposure with high-performance ingredients.

• Men’s Recovery Massage: Using CBD-infused oils, this massage targets overworked muscles to reduce inflammation, enhance mobility, and melt away stress.

• Coconut Oil Body Scrub for Men: A gentle scrub that renews the skin and stimulates the lymphatic system using dry brushing techniques combined with a nourishing virgin coconut oil sugar scrub for a radiant glow.

Discover more and book your Father’s Day experience at desertspringsspa.com.

Make Father’s Day extra special this year by giving dad the gift of relaxation and recreation at JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa — where every detail is designed to celebrate him.