Leadership Change at WTTCII: Deep Kalra Takes the Helm for 2024-2025 Term

Leadership Change at WTTCII: Deep Kalra Takes the Helm for 2024-2025 Term

By Author

Published on December 14, 2023

In a significant announcement, the World Travel and Tourism Council, India Initiative (WTTCII), has appointed Deep Kalra, Founder & Chairman of MakeMyTrip India Pvt. Ltd, as Chairperson and Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson & Managing Director of the Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, as Vice Chairperson for the upcoming term from 2024 to 2025.

Deep Kalra expressed his respect for WTTCII's distinguished heritage and visionary initiatives, emphasizing the organization's commendable 23-year legacy. Kalra highlighted the importance of collaborating with states, citing their active engagement with the Goa Tourism Board and a recently formalized strategic MoU with the Government of West Bengal to craft a comprehensive marketing and PR roadmap. He stressed the need for impactful partnerships with states and active collaboration to contribute insights to the central government's priorities, aligning with Prime Minister Modi and the Ministry of Tourism initiatives.

Dr. Jyotsna Suri reflected on the evolution of India's tourism landscape since the inception of WTTCII in 2000. She commended the substantial progress made under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Ministry of Tourism, emphasizing the organization's commitment to contributing to the ongoing tourism revolution. Dr. Suri highlighted the recent whitepaper, 'Policy Reforms for Indian Hotel and Hospitality Sector,' calling upon states to streamline business environments, foster increased investments, employment, and local livelihood opportunities.

The leadership change sees Deep Kalra taking over from Dinesh Khanna, Executive Director of Eastern International Hotels Ltd, who served as Chairman of WTTCII for the 2022-2023 term. The appointments aim to leverage the collective expertise within the membership base to elevate tourism initiatives, especially at the state level. WTTCII's emphasis on advancing tourism initiatives within states aligns with their goal of stimulating local tourism economies.

In related developments, former Union Secretary of Tourism and Secretary General of WTTCII, Sujit Banerjee, has joined the Advisory Board of the GSTC India Working Group. Banerjee expressed enthusiasm for advancing India's tourism sustainability agenda, aiming to position the country as a global focal point for sustainability initiatives through collaborative efforts.

As Deep Kalra assumes the role of Chairperson and Dr. Jyotsna Suri takes on the responsibilities of Vice Chairperson, WTTCII looks forward to continued contributions to India's tourism growth and sustainability. The organization remains committed to fostering partnerships, streamlining policies, and supporting initiatives that enhance the overall tourism landscape in India.


Trehan Iris Appoints Milind Soman as Wellness Advisor to Champion Holistic, Nature-Led Living

Trehan Iris Appoints Milind Soman as Wellness Advisor to Champion Holistic, Nature-Led Living

By Hariharan U

Published on December 13, 2025

Trehan Iris, a leading name in Indian real estate for over seven decades, has announced a strategic initiative to embed holistic wellness at the heart of all upcoming developments. Following its guiding philosophy, “Nourish Your Being”, the company is incorporating biophilic design, nature-led environments, and mindful community amenities to create living and working spaces that elevate everyday well-being.

In line with this vision, Trehan Iris has appointed actor, model, fitness and wellness icon Milind Soman as its Wellness Advisor. Known for promoting holistic health, endurance, and sustainable lifestyles, Milind will guide the wellness framework for upcoming projects in Gurugram and Noida, helping shape spaces that encourage residents and professionals to adopt healthier, more mindful habits.

Abhishek Trehan, Executive Director, Trehan Iris, said, "Wellness is the ultimate luxury. Our collaboration with Milind Soman brings this philosophy to life in our developments, ensuring that every design element, amenity, and experience supports holistic well-being."

Aman Trehan, Executive Director, Trehan Iris, added, "Real estate must evolve with people’s changing needs, and wellness is central to that evolution. With Milind’s guidance, we’re designing spaces that naturally promote healthier lifestyles."

Expressing his enthusiasm, Milind Soman commented, "Wellness is not about doing something extra, it's about integrating healthy habits and mindful choices into everyday life. I’m delighted to partner with Trehan Iris to shape communities where well-being becomes intrinsic to how people live, move, and connect."

Trehan Iris continues to redefine luxury real estate, ensuring that holistic wellness, nature, and balance remain integral to all future developments, including residential, commercial, and mixed-use projects across Gurgaon, Noida, and Bangalore.

Media Contact:
Ayushi Srivastava
Associate Account Manager | PR Professionals

About Trehan Iris:
With over seven decades of expertise, Trehan Iris has delivered more than 15 million sq. ft. across 100+ landmark projects, including IRIS Broadway Gurgaon, IRIS Tech Park, and IRIS Cyber Tower. The company is expanding into wellness-led residential, commercial, and hospitality developments, crafting future-ready communities that integrate nature, vitality, and lifestyle innovation.


voco Amritsar Appoints Ahmed Faisal as Associate Director of Food & Beverage

voco Amritsar Appoints Ahmed Faisal as Associate Director of Food & Beverage

By Hariharan U

Published on December 11, 2025

voco Amritsar by IHG has announced the appointment of Ahmed Faisal as the Associate Director of Food & Beverage, strengthening the leadership team ahead of the hotel’s upcoming opening.

Ahmed brings strong pre-opening experience and a solid foundation in IHG’s service culture, known for shaping distinctive food and beverage concepts that enhance guest satisfaction and operational standards.

He previously served at voco Jim Corbett by IHG as a core part of the pre-opening team. During his tenure, he played a key role in building the hotel’s F&B identity, from menu and concept development to service refinement and guest engagement.

Continuing his growth within the IHG family, Ahmed now moves to voco Amritsar where he will lead menu planning, restaurant operations, team development and overall F&B strategy for the city’s newest upscale hotel.

His experience, creativity and focus on guest-centric dining are expected to contribute meaningfully to the hotel’s culinary positioning as it prepares to welcome travellers and locals alike.


Espire Hospitality appoints Sandeep Kumar Rajput as Commercial Director

Espire Hospitality appoints Sandeep Kumar Rajput as Commercial Director

By Hariharan U

Published on December 11, 2025

Espire Hospitality Limited has announced the appointment of Mr. Sandeep Kumar Rajput as its new Commercial Director. He will lead the commercial strategy for the company’s two key brands, ZANA Luxury Resorts and Country Inn Hotels & Resorts. The appointment comes as Espire continues to expand its presence and strengthen its revenue framework across India.

With more than 22 years of experience in Sales and Marketing, Sandeep has built a strong reputation for delivering growth across multiple hospitality brands. His career includes leadership roles at Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels, Pride Group of Hotels, HHI Group, St Laurn Hotels, and Infinity Resort, where he contributed to building high-performing teams and driving market development.

In his previous role as Vice President – Sales at Royal Orchid & Regenta Hotels, he handled the P&L and commercial direction for over 55 hotels across North and East India and Nepal, while also supporting revenue for a larger portfolio of more than 110 hotels across the country. His strengths include corporate partnerships, key account management, and building scalable sales structures.

At Espire Hospitality Limited, Sandeep will focus on enhancing the commercial ecosystem, strengthening brand visibility, and supporting the group’s expansion plans. His role will also involve deepening stakeholder relationships and building a results-driven culture across teams.

Sharing his thoughts on the appointment, Mr. Akhil Arora, CEO & MD, Espire Hospitality Limited, said, “We are excited to have Sandeep join Espire Hospitality Limited during this defining chapter of our expansion. Sandeep brings with him a wealth of industry experience and has successfully led several high-impact strategic initiatives across the region. We are confident that his impressive track record, proven leadership and broad expertise will play a key role in our journey to scale new heights.”

Sandeep’s industry knowledge and leadership style are expected to contribute significantly to Espire Hospitality’s growth vision and new development pipeline.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.