The Association of Hospitality Professionals (AHP) is gearing up for the 8th edition of its flagship event, the AHP Hospitality Challenge & Awards 2025, bringing together the best of India’s hospitality talent this July. Known for its nationwide impact and industry relevance, this year’s edition raises the bar once again with a sharp focus on skill development, scale, and inclusivity.

Running from 3rd to 9th July, with the grand awards night on 30th July at The Suryaa, New Delhi, the event offers a dynamic blend of competitions and recognitions across hospitality domains—culinary arts, front office, F&B service, and housekeeping. With over 300 participants, judged by 50 distinguished jury members across 20+ competition categories, the platform reflects the depth and dedication of India’s hospitality sector.

AHP has carefully curated a multi-venue format to provide a professional, real-world setting for each skill category:

• Banarsidas Chandiwala Institute of Hotel Management (3–5 July): Culinary Challenges
  

• Indian Hotel Academy (8 July): Front Office Master
  

• Radisson Blu, Paschim Vihar (9 July): Art of Bed Making & Towel Folding
  

• The Suryaa, New Delhi (7 & 30 July): War of Spirits, Table Setting, and Awards Ceremony
  

Vinod Gulati, President of the AHP Executive Committee, shares:
"Hospitality is a deeply human profession. This platform recognises the unseen excellence of those who shape guest experiences every day. It’s their moment to shine."

A cornerstone of the 2025 edition is “Sashakt – Empowering Special Ability Professionals”. This initiative invites specially-abled individuals to participate in the same categories as their peers, without separate judging criteria. By offering equal opportunity and thoughtful accommodations, AHP champions inclusion and celebrates skill over limitations, pushing forward a hospitality culture that’s accessible to all.

From live cooking showdowns and F&B innovation to bed-making artistry, towel folding, and front office simulations, every contest is designed to challenge and celebrate the multidimensional nature of hospitality.

Devipshita Gautam, Founder and General Secretary of AHP, adds:

"This isn’t just a competition—it’s a tribute to intent and craftsmanship. As we host the 8th edition, we reaffirm that hospitality is more than service—it’s a calling, deserving pride and visibility."

The event culminates in a grand recognition ceremony on 30th July, where AHP will present the Hospitality Excellence Awards 2025, Tourism Excellence Awards, and Food Awards. The honours will celebrate individuals and institutions alike—from chefs and housekeepers to boutique hotels and sustainable dining brands—that define excellence in India’s hospitality industry.

As a not-for-profit organisation registered under the Societies Registration Act of 1860, AHP continues to elevate India’s hospitality community through skill competitions, award platforms, training initiatives, and industry collaborations—fueling pride, performance, and progress in one of the world’s most human-centric professions.

Bizzcom Solutions, one of India’s leading PR and communications agencies, has officially expanded its global footprint with the launch of its operations in New Jersey and New York, marking a bold step into the U.S. market.

The newly launched offices will cater to a wide range of high-growth industries including Education, Hospitality, IT, Healthcare, Wealth Management, Fashion, and Wellness, offering the agency’s full spectrum of services—from digital PR and brand storytelling to media relations and influencer outreach.

“At Bizzcom Solutions, we believe in building brand narratives that transcend borders,” said Praveen Tiwari, Founder of Bizzcom Solutions. “Our decision to expand into New Jersey and New York stems from the growing demand for integrated communications strategies in some of the world’s most competitive markets. Our team is excited to help U.S.-based clients create impactful connections with their audiences.”

The expansion is not just about market entry, but about delivering localized, sector-specific strategies that resonate with American audiences. With a solid track record in India across startups, SMEs, and multinational clients, Bizzcom brings a reputation for results-driven PR campaigns, strategic branding, and powerful digital communication.

As part of its U.S. strategy, Bizzcom Solutions will:

• Set up dedicated teams for each focus sector to provide domain expertise.
  

• Build partnerships with local media, influencers, and content creators to develop authentic brand narratives.
  

• Offer a comprehensive suite of services including thought leadership campaigns, brand storytelling, crisis communication, and strategic media outreach.
  

Additionally, Bizzcom’s U.S. operations are expected to create cross-border opportunities for Indian companies and institutions looking to expand internationally—effectively bridging brand communication between the two markets.

With this strategic move, Bizzcom Solutions positions itself as a global communication partner for brands looking to scale with purpose and precision.

The Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic crash of Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, which crashed shortly after takeoff from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in Ahmedabad. Bound for London Gatwick, the flight was carrying 242 passengers, with initial reports confirming over 100 fatalities and many more injured after the aircraft descended into a residential and hostel zone near Meghani Nagar.

Mrs. Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson of THSC and Former President of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), extended heartfelt condolences to the families impacted.

“This tragedy has not only shaken communities but also cast a shadow over the spirit of travel and exploration that unites us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, the brave rescue workers, and the medical staff tirelessly working on the ground. We stand in solidarity and commit to supporting relief and rehabilitation efforts in any way we can,” she said.

Reflecting on the wider implications of such disasters, Mrs. Mayal stressed the importance of safety and preparedness within the travel and hospitality industry.

“Incidents like these serve as stark reminders that safety is the foundation of a resilient tourism sector,” she noted.
“When tragedy strikes, it disrupts not just lives but also the confidence of travelers, the livelihoods of those dependent on tourism, and the overall image of a destination.”

THSC reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing crisis management across the industry and announced that it is actively exploring the integration of emergency response modules into its certification programs, equipping hospitality professionals with the skills needed to respond effectively during such unforeseen events.

“The Ahmedabad crash is a solemn reminder of the interdependence between safety, preparedness, and public trust in travel,” added Mrs. Mayal.

As the nation comes to terms with the loss, THSC stands united with all affected and will continue to advocate for stronger safety measures, staff training, and cross-sector coordination to uphold the highest standards of traveller security and confidence.