Miss World 2023 Beauty Divas Boost MICE Tourism in Kashmir

Miss World 2023 Beauty Divas Boost MICE Tourism in Kashmir

By Author

Published on September 4, 2023

A group of international beauty queens, including Miss World Karolina Bielawska, recently graced the picturesque landscapes of Kashmir as a prelude to the Miss World pageant 2023. This visit, organized by the Tourism Department in collaboration with the Rouble Nagi Art Foundation, holds great promise for the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism sector in the region.

When global beauty icons like these visit a destination like Kashmir, it draws substantial media attention, both nationally and internationally. This increased visibility not only showcases Kashmir as a safe and attractive location for various events, including MICE tourism but also alters the perception of the region from a conflict-ridden area to a peaceful and hospitable one. This perception shift is vital in attracting business and corporate travelers for conferences and meetings.

Moreover, high-profile visits like these often lead to investments in infrastructure development to accommodate such events. This includes improvements in conference facilities, hotels, transportation, and other amenities crucial for MICE tourism. The beauty divas also have extensive networks in the business and entertainment industries, potentially resulting in collaborations, partnerships, and event sponsorships that can further boost MICE tourism.

This positive development not only contributes to the economy by generating income but also creates significant employment opportunities in the hospitality and related sectors such as accommodation, food and beverage, convention services, transportation, tourism, and entertainment.

Kashmir's natural beauty, rich culture, and history have always made it an attractive destination for events. When global icons choose Kashmir, it sets a trend and encourages others to consider the region for their events. MICE tourism, a sub-segment of business travel, not only involves meetings but also leisure activities. Business executives attending meetings often explore tourist spots, making this segment attractive for high-end travelers.

With the right investments in luxury hotels, infrastructure at tourist spots, quality restaurants, cafes, and other top-class amenities, Kashmir has the potential to become a top MICE destination, not just in India but globally.

In recent years, the MICE industry has been recognized as a significant market segment and a contributor to national economies. It not only boosts income generation but also generates employment opportunities. This visit by the beauty divas heralds a positive shift in Kashmir's tourism landscape, positioning it as a global destination for events and conferences.

Kashmir's transformation in the tourism sector has been possible due to focused leadership from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and the continuous guidance of Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha. Their efforts have led to a significant turnaround in the tourism scenario, showcasing Kashmir's unity in diversity and its potential to shine on the global tourism stage.

The visit of Miss World 2023 Beauty Divas to Kashmir is not only a testament to the region's allure but also a beacon of hope for the burgeoning MICE tourism sector. It's a step towards redefining Kashmir's image and inviting the world to experience its beauty and hospitality, making it a global destination for both leisure and business travelers.

Image Source: Social Media


SpiceJet Announces Special Diwali Flights to Ayodhya from Key Indian Cities

SpiceJet Announces Special Diwali Flights to Ayodhya from Key Indian Cities

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 7, 2025

SpiceJet has announced the launch of daily non-stop flights connecting Ayodhya with Delhi, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, and Hyderabad starting October 8, 2025. The initiative coincides with the Diwali festive season, making travel to the Shri Ram Temple easier for devotees and tourists while reinforcing SpiceJet’s commitment to affordable and accessible travel.

The new services will be introduced in a phased manner to ensure seamless connectivity and reliable operations. SpiceJet also revealed that flights from Mumbai to Ayodhya are under consideration to meet the growing travel demand during the festive and winter seasons.

Debojo Maharshi, Chief Business Officer, SpiceJet, said, “There could be no better occasion than Diwali to visit Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram. We are delighted to make travel to the holy city easier and more convenient for devotees and tourists alike. Our new daily flights from key metros will ensure smooth and affordable access to Ayodhya during Diwali, allowing passengers to celebrate the festival in its most divine setting.”

The special Diwali flight services are expected to cater to increased passenger traffic, offering greater flexibility for travellers from major Indian cities. This network expansion strengthens SpiceJet’s domestic reach while supporting religious and seasonal tourism.

SpiceJet, an IATA-IOSA certified airline, operates a fleet of Boeing 737s and Q-400s and continues to be among India’s largest regional carriers under the UDAN scheme. The airline remains focused on expanding its network to meet cultural and regional travel needs across the country.


Qantas to Resume Non-Stop Delhi–Melbourne Flights Ahead of India–Australia T20

Qantas to Resume Non-Stop Delhi–Melbourne Flights Ahead of India–Australia T20

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 7, 2025

Qantas, Australia’s largest airline and national carrier, has announced the return of its non-stop flights between Delhi and Melbourne, set to begin on 27 October 2025. Operating three times a week until 28 March 2026, the service re-establishes a key route in the airline’s India–Australia network ahead of the busy travel and cricket season.

The reinstated connection offers Indian travellers direct access to Melbourne, one of Australia’s most popular cities known for its cultural diversity, culinary appeal, and proximity to iconic attractions such as the Great Ocean Road, Yarra Valley, and Phillip Island.

The timing of the relaunch coincides with major cricket fixtures, including the India–Australia T20 match scheduled for 31 October at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The first Qantas flight on this route will land in Melbourne on 28 October, giving fans convenient access to the event and the city’s vibrant summer sporting calendar, which also features the Ashes and Big Bash League tournaments.

Cam Wallace, CEO of Qantas International, said, “We’re delighted to bring back our non-stop connection between Delhi and Melbourne, just in time for the busy travel season. Flying direct significantly reduces travel time to Australia, and these new flights are perfectly suited for Indian fans attending cricket events in Melbourne, including the T20 series in late October, the Ashes and Big Bash League later in the year.”

He added, “To help support our growing presence in India, we have opened new offices in Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru to service our Indian customers, and promote our non-stop flights to Sydney and Melbourne.”

The flights will be operated by Airbus A330-200 aircraft, featuring 26 lie-flat Business Class suites and 204 Economy seats. Across three weekly return services, Qantas will offer over 1,300 seats per week between Delhi and Melbourne, adding more than 30,000 seats during the peak travel season.


Sri Lanka Launches Three-City Roadshow Across Southern India

Sri Lanka Launches Three-City Roadshow Across Southern India

By Hariharan U

Published on October 4, 2025

Sri Lanka Tourism is intensifying its efforts to attract Indian travellers with a three-city roadshow series across Southern India. Scheduled for Madurai, Coimbatore, and Chennai on October 6, 8, and 10, 2025 respectively, the initiative will highlight Sri Lanka’s diverse tourism offerings and strengthen ties with the Indian travel industry.

Organised by the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) and the Sri Lanka Convention Bureau (SLCB), the roadshows will feature B2B sessions and networking evenings designed to showcase Sri Lanka as a year-round destination for all types of travellers. The events will introduce Indian travel agents and industry professionals to Sri Lanka’s tourism sector, its vibrant attractions, and growing opportunities for leisure and MICE travel.

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“This initiative underscores Sri Lanka’s commitment to strengthening its position as a preferred destination for Indian travellers, offering a blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and world-class hospitality,” said the delegation led by Mr. Vijitha Herath, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, and Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe, Deputy Minister of Tourism.

The delegation includes over 40 stakeholders from across Sri Lanka’s tourism industry, including destination management companies, hotels, resorts, tour operators, and service providers. Each city’s event will host over 200 participants, comprising Indian travel agents, industry leaders, and media representatives.

Adding a vibrant touch to the experience, a Sri Lankan cultural dance troupe will perform at each venue, offering guests a glimpse into the island’s rich heritage and traditions.

About SLTPB & SLCB

The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau is the government agency responsible for marketing and promoting Sri Lanka as a travel destination. Working closely with the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, SLCB, and other stakeholders, SLTPB aims to position Sri Lanka as South Asia’s leading tourist destination.

The Sri Lanka Convention Bureau focuses on promoting MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) travel to Sri Lanka. With world-class venues and improved accessibility, SLCB facilitates event planning for international corporations, associations, and incentive houses. India remains a key market for the bureau’s promotional activities.

Both organisations operate under the Ministry of Foreign Employment, Foreign Affairs & Tourism of Sri Lanka, combining efforts to promote the country’s leisure and business tourism offerings.

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