Held under the theme “Tourism 4.0: Coding the Resilience of the New Tomorrow,” the summit served as a dynamic platform to discuss the future of global travel, digital transformation, sustainable growth, and India’s expanding role in the international tourism landscape.

The event witnessed participation from leading CXOs, policymakers, diplomats, and industry pioneers, who engaged in insightful conversations on emerging travel trends, AI-led innovation, aviation growth, hospitality excellence, and destination readiness. The summit highlighted how collaboration and technology will shape the next chapter of tourism growth.

Addressing the summit as a keynote speaker, Jyoti Mayal emphasised the importance of collaboration, innovation, and skilling in shaping the future of India’s tourism ecosystem. She highlighted how platforms like ICONIC foster meaningful dialogue among industry leaders across travel, aviation, and hospitality, enabling the sector to collectively navigate challenges and unlock new growth opportunities. Underscoring the theme of “Tourism 4.0,” she spoke about embracing digital transformation and resilience to position India as a strong global tourism powerhouse.

Prominent speakers included Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson, Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC) and CEO, Red Hat Communications; Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director & COO, South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group; JB Singh, Director, InterGlobe Air Transport Ltd. and President & CEO, InterGlobe Hotels; Sandeep Dwivedi, Managing Director & COO, Amadeus South Asia; Manish Puri, Head of Global Sales, Air India & Air India Express.

Meena Bhatia, Vice President & General Manager, Le Méridien New Delhi; Yummi Talwar, COO, South Asia, VFS Global; Ranju Alex, CEO, India & South Asia, Accor;  Vasudha Sondhi, MD, Outbound Marketing Pvt. Ltd.; Dr. Navina Jafa, Heritage Tourism leader &Author; Ratna Chadha, CEO, TIRUN Travel Marketing; Parikshit Choudhary, Chief Business Officer – B2B and Customer Connect, MMT; Anil Parashar, Executive Director, ITQ Technologies Pvt. Ltd.; and Hirendrasinh Dabhi, AGM, Marketing & Promotions, Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited, along with several eminent dignitaries and tourism stakeholders.

WION ICONIC Travel & Tourism Summit 2026 also welcomed senior diplomatic representatives from key international markets, including H.E. Kamel Zayed Kamel Galal, Ambassador of Egypt to India, H.E. Pradeepa Mahishini Colonne, Sri Lankan High Commissioner to India and H.E. Aliki Koutsomitopoulou, Ambassador of Greece to India —reinforcing the importance of global partnerships in accelerating inbound and outbound tourism opportunities.

Speaking on the successful conclusion of the summit, Jyoti Mayal, visionary behind the ICONIC platform and Chairperson, Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC), said at WION ICONIC Travel & Tourism Summit 2026, “It is always encouraging to see the travel and tourism industry come together on one platform to share ideas, discuss challenges, and look ahead with optimism. Through WION ICONIC Travel & Tourism Summit 2026, we aimed to create meaningful conversations that can support the growth of our sector.

The response this year has been truly heartening, with leaders from across travel, hospitality, aviation, and tourism sharing valuable perspectives. I truly believe that with the right collaboration, innovation, and focus on skilling, Indian tourism has immense potential in the years ahead. Platforms like these are important because they help us learn from one another and move forward together as an industry.”

The event also featured a fireside chat with Ashwani Lohani, Director of the Prime Minister’s Museum and Library, along with an interactive session with women travel content creators such as Mia Lakra, Deeksha Mishra, and Means Malhotra on the theme “She Travels, She Posts: The Truth About Solo Female Travel.”

With strong participation, high-impact discussions, and powerful industry networking, the summit concluded with a renewed commitment towards building a smarter, more sustainable, and globally competitive tourism ecosystem. The overwhelming response to this year’s edition further cements WION ICONIC Travel & Tourism Summit as one of India’s most influential platforms for the travel and hospitality industry.

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Strengthening its commitment to building future-ready talent for India’s hospitality industry, Hotel Association of India (HAI) & The Lalit Suri Hospitality (TLSHS) formalised a strategic collaboration with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the School’s Faridabad campus on April 22, 2026.

The MoU exchange took place in the esteemed presence of the Hon’ble Union Minister of Tourism, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, marking a significant step towards advancing skill development aligned with the Government’s vision for tourism-led growth.

This partnership introduces the ‘Image & Life Skills Lab’, a specialised 10-day Professional Presence & Communication Development Program aimed at equipping participants with essential soft skills – interpersonal and  communication skills, critical for success and excellence in today’s experience -driven hospitality landscape

The initiative is structured as a non-commercial collaboration, reflecting a shared commitment to industry advancement without financial obligations between the two institutions. While HAI will drive outreach, awareness, and industry integration, TLSHS will lead program delivery, leveraging its faculty expertise, campus infrastructure, and immersive training methodologies to develop the next generation of hospitality professionals. 

Participants who successfully complete the program will receive a joint certification from HAI and TLSHS, significantly enhancing their employability and professional readiness.

The ceremony was attended by senior leadership from both organisations, including K. B. Kachru, President, HAI, and Dr Jyotsna Suri, CMD, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, along with members of the HAI Executive Committee and representatives of several HAI  Member Hotels. The event included a campus tour, MoU exchange, ministerial address, and interactive engagement with students and faculty.

Congratulating HAI and TLSHS for taking up such an important step, the Hon’ble  Minister, said, “It is a historic event and posterity will reap the benefit of this initiative. This association is a bridge to create employable and industry-ready professionals. Hospitality remains one of the most promising sectors for employment generation, with immense potential to create meaningful livelihoods across the country.

By fostering structured collaboration, we are not only strengthening the talent pipeline but also contributing to the long-term growth and resilience of the hospitality ecosystem. Tourism and hospitality have tremendous possibilities and opportunities in India’s development story. As India progresses towards its vision of becoming a $30 trillion economy by 2047, the role of sectors like hospitality in driving employment, entrepreneurship, and economic growth will be critical.”

He added, ” While I was being taken around parts of the campus, I saw the classroom. I asked, when you look at a classroom, do you not get that old factor — that feeling? In our time, we used to sit on simple college benches. But then I told myself, this is a hospitality institute.

It reflects a changing India and a changing tourism sector. This is a reflection of a changing India and of the changing tourism sector in India. This is a great opportunity, a privilege, for those students who have had the chance to study here. I congratulate all of you.

In these last ten years, the kind of transformation that has happened in the country, the economic transformation, and along with that the kind of infrastructure development that has taken place in India, makes it clear before us today that in the coming time, tourism and the hospitality industry are going to bring very great possibilities for India.”

Commenting on the collaboration, KB Kachru, President, Hotel Association of India (HAI) and Chairman – South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group, said, “Hotel Association of India, together with The Lalit Suri Hospitality School, aims to bridge vital capability gaps by equipping professionals with the interpersonal and communication skills essential in a service-driven industry. This collaboration aims to bring the program to aspiring hospitality professionals across the country and is  pivotal to India’s aspiration to achieve a $3trillion tourism economy by 2047.”

Kachru further stated, “We want to make every effort to help shape the future of a young population. We want you to feel that this is a beginning for all of us. Our intent is to scale this effort by bringing more institutions and more hotels into the ecosystem, where personality development is given its true importance”

Dr Jyotsna Suri, CMD, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, speaking on the occasion, said, “At The Lalit Suri Hospitality School, we believe education goes beyond technical skills. Through the Image & Life Skills Lab, in partnership with Hotel Association of India, we aim to nurture individuals who are confident, inclusive and industry-ready for the evolving needs of hospitality.”

She noted, “I just want to share very quickly that the vision that Lalit had, and he had this vision of being able to create an institute… He used to always say, ‘Why do we have to go overseas? Why do we have to study and send our kids overseas for hospitality? But hospitality comes so naturally to us.”

Read more – Upskilling India

Its 3 office parks (~ 3.38 million sq ft) have secured an Integrated Management System Certification, encompassing four globally recognised ISO standards, reinforcing its commitment to quality, sustainability, safety, and operational excellence.

The certifications include:

ISO 9001:2015 – Quality Management System

ISO 14001:2015 – Environmental Management System

ISO 45001:2018 – Occupational Health & Safety Management System

ISO 41001:2018 – Facility Management System

The certification spans three key commercial assets—Business Bay, ICC Offices, and Panchshil Tech Park Hinjewadi.

The certification scope includes end-to-end Integrated services, covering engineering operations and maintenance, soft services, safety and security systems, civil upkeep, and digital enablement. This ensures consistent, efficient, and value-driven performance across all assets.

Accredited under globally recognised frameworks such as the International Accreditation Forum (IAF), National Accreditation Board for Certification Bodies (NABCB), and the Egyptian Accreditation Council (EGAC), the certifications demonstrate alignment with international benchmarks and best practices.

Ranjit Batra, CEO, Ventive Hospitality, says, “This milestone reflects Ventive Hospitality’s structured approach to strengthening operational frameworks and delivering high-performance, future-ready workspaces that meet evolving occupier expectations and ESG standards.”

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Anticipated to open in January 2029, JW Marriott Kosi Kalan Resort & Spa will span 14-acres of verdant landscape and is slated to be a haven for travelers who seek an authentic escape paired with highly personalized service and engaging experiences.

‘Espire Hospitality Limited’, a part of the Espire Group, is a publicly listed company on BSE and is among the very few hospitality companies that both own and operate their hotels. Growing as one of India’s most progressive enterprises, Espire Group is a global conglomerate operating across diverse verticals, including Hospitality, IT Solutions and Education.

“The expansion of Marriott’s luxury portfolio reflects our long-term conviction in India’s evolving travel landscape,” said Kiran Andicot – Senior Vice President – South Asia, Marriott International. “The introduction of the JW Marriott brand in Kosi Kalan is a strategic move, that strengthens our presence in an emerging market while responding to growing demand for elevated, experience-led hospitality beyond traditional gateway cities. This signing not only deepens our luxury footprint but is also expected to contribute meaningfully to the region’s tourism and economic momentum. We look forward to working with Espire Hospitality Limited to introduce the brand’s legacy of mindful hospitality and enriching well-being experiences to the beautiful calm of Kosi Kalan.”

Commenting on this signing, Gagan Oberoi, Group CEO, said, “This collaboration with Marriott International is a testament to our strategic focus on expanding the portfolio with iconic, high-impact developments. JW Marriott Kosi Kalan Resort & Spa has been envisioned as a sanctuary of mindful luxury, where contemporary elegance meets nature, culture, and memorable experiences. This signing marks a significant step in strengthening our luxury portfolio, and we are proud to bring yet another landmark project to life, reinforcing the momentum of our rapid growth trajectory” 

The JW Marriott Kosi Kalan Resort & Spa will be situated along the Delhi -Agra highway, in the culturally significant Braj region, a landscape deeply rooted in heritage and tradition. The town enjoys close proximity to Mathura (approx. 45-minute drive), the birthplace of Lord Krishna and an important spiritual and cultural centre and Vrindavan (approx. 50-minute drive), revered for its timeless temples and devotional legacy. This strategic location places Kosi Kalan at the intersection of cultural richness and regional connectivity.

Kosi Kalan is connected to several Indian cities through major highways, expressways and railroads. The railway station is located 5 km away, while Delhi’s international airport is approximately 114 km (a two-hour drive). The upcoming Noida International Airport will be a comfortable 1.5-hour drive from the hotel.

JW Marriott Kosi Kalan Resort & Spa is anticipated to blend modern elegance with the authentic heritage of Mathura. The resort is slated to offer 151 stylishly appointed guestrooms and suites, including villas featuring private pools. Design plans for the resort also comprise multiple serene spaces inviting guests to fully embrace the here and now. Dining options are anticipated to include three distinct culinary experiences, including a specialty restaurant and three lounge bars, and a roof top pool bar.

Additionally, the property is slated to offer multiple swimming pools, a fitness centre, the signature Spa by JW, a Kid’s Club and a Recreational Centre featuring a tennis and multi-purpose court. Anticipated to grow as a quality Wedding and MICE destination, Kosi Kalan will have the perfect setting with the JW Marriott Kosi Kalan Resort & Spa, offering 950 sq meters of social and meeting space, with an additional 2395 sq meters of outdoor lawns and a dedicated bridal suite. 

Read more: News

Set against the serene backdrop of Kashmir, this new association marks Collective Hotels’ strategic entry into one of India’s most iconic and sought-after destinations. The property reflects the brand’s vision of transforming distinctive spaces into curated luxury experiences, where design, service, and storytelling come together seamlessly.

With this tie-up, Collective aims to elevate the region’s hospitality offering by bringing its signature approach of refined aesthetics, enhanced guest experiences, and strong operational excellence. The Pahalgam property is envisioned as a destination for both leisure travellers and intimate celebrations, aligning with the brand’s philosophy of creating memorable stays rooted in place and culture.

This expansion reinforces Collective’s commitment to partnering with unique properties across India and unlocking their next phase of growth through thoughtful curation and brand-led transformation.

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This dual signing strengthens ASPHL’s focused growth strategy of positioning its presence in key pilgrimage circuits, catering to the evolving needs of modern travellers seeking comfortable, design-led hospitality experiences in culturally significant locations.

Located in the sacred city of Ayodhya, Zone Connect by The Park, Ayodhya will feature 56 well-appointed rooms. The hotel is strategically located in close proximity to the revered Ram Janmabhoomi, approximately 4.9 km and Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, approximately 6 km. The hotel will offer an all-day dining restaurant Café C and a rooftop restaurant, along with Plunge – swimming pool and Vitalia gym. A banquet hall will further enhance its offering, making it suitable for social gatherings and celebrations.

In Ujjain, one of India’s most iconic pilgrimage destinations, Zone Connect by The Park, Ujjain will feature 64 well-appointed rooms. Located approximately 7 km from Ujjain Railway Station and 8 km from the iconic Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, the hotel will also offer convenient access to Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport. The hotel will include Café C-an all-day dining restaurant, Plunge- swimming pool along with fitness and wellness facilities. 

Commenting on the signings, Vikas Ahluwalia, AVP & National Head – Zone by The Park Hotels, said, “We are delighted to expand our footprint in two of India’s most significant spiritual destinations – Ayodhya and Ujjain. These signings mark an important step in strengthening our presence in the pilgrimage tourism segment. As demand for quality hospitality infrastructure continues to grow in these cities, we aim to offer vibrant, contemporary stays that resonate with the needs of today’s travellers while staying connected to the local ethos.”

Vivek Jaiswal, Owner, M/s Hotel Saroj Sons, added, “We are pleased to partner with Apeejay Surrendra Park Hotels Limited for Ayodhya. With their strong brand legacy and operational expertise, we are confident of creating a compelling hospitality offering for the growing influx of visitors to the city.”

Jyoti Saran Agarwal, Partner at Shubh Aagman Hotels LLP, added, “Our collaboration with ASPHL for Ujjain reflects a shared vision of delivering quality hospitality in one of India’s most important spiritual destinations. We look forward to bringing a contemporary and comfortable stay experience to travellers visiting the city.”

With these additions, ASPHL continues to expand its Zone by The Park portfolio, reinforcing its commitment to high-growth markets and strengthening its presence across India’s key cultural and religious destinations with hotels that are stylish, social, and rooted in local context.

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Located near Jim Corbett National Park, the resort marks an important step in expanding into one of India’s most popular nature destinations

The resort is designed for leisure travellers, wildlife lovers and corporate groups. It will offer around 100 spacious rooms, dining options, landscaped lawns, a swimming pool and a range of recreational activities to create a comfortable and memorable stay. 

The project is being developed by Belvoir Hospitality and will be operated by BWH Hotels, bringing together strong development expertise and global hospitality standards. 

This signing also reflects BWH Hotels India’s growing presence in leisure destinations such as Manesar, McLeodganj, Kasauli and Dalhousie, where travellers are seeking well-designed and comfortable stays. 

Atul Jain, Chief Operating Officer, BWH Hotels for India, Bangladesh & Sri Lanka, said, “Corbett is evolving. Today, travellers are looking for more than just a visit, they want a meaningful experience.  With this project, we aim to offer eco-friendly comfort while supporting responsible tourism.” 

Himanshu Bhandari, Owner, Belvoir Hospitality, added, “Our goal is to create a stay that feels both special and easy. Working with BWH Hotels, we look forward to delivering hospitality that matches the beauty and appeal  of Corbett.” 

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Scheduled to open in Q1 2029, the hotel will further strengthen IHG’s presence in Tamil Nadu and reinforce its focus on high-growth industrial and commercial markets across India.

As one of IHG’s most recognised brands globally and in India, Holiday Inn Hotels & Resorts focuses on delivering warm and dependable service that helps guests make the most of their travels. With a service philosophy rooted in creating brighter stays and meaningful experiences, the brand continues to meet the evolving needs of modern travellers across business and leisure segments.

Located in Sriperumbudur, a key hub for industrial as well as historic and religious sites, the 200-key hotel is positioned to cater to strong corporate, spiritual, and transit demand. The hotel will feature well-appointed standard rooms and suites, three dining options along with a ballroom, swimming pool and fitness centre, offering well-rounded stays for travellers.

Commenting on the signing, Sudeep Jain, Managing Director, South West Asia, IHG Hotels & Resorts, said, “The signing of Holiday Inn Sriperumbudur aligns with our strategy to expand in key commercial centres with high growth potential. With its strategic location and trusted brand proposition, the hotel will be well-positioned to serve the growing needs of business and spiritual travellers in the region. This marks our third hotel signing with Thanishq Grande Hotels & Resorts, and we are pleased to strengthen our partnership as we bring this project to life.”

Sudeesh Srinivas, Managing Director & Keerthan Sudeesh, CEO, Thanishq Grande Hotels & Resorts, added, “We are delighted to collaborate with IHG Hotels & Resorts to introduce the Holiday Inn brand to Sriperumbudur. Backed by IHG’s global expertise and strong brand recognition, we are confident the hotel will become a preferred choice for travellers visiting the area.”

Sriperumbudur has rapidly developed into a major investment destination, benefiting from its proximity to Chennai port, its strategic location along the Chennai Bangalore highway, and ongoing infrastructure development. The presence of Software Technology Parks, leading global automotive and electronics manufacturers, and the Aerospace Park at Vallam Vadagal has further strengthened its appeal. The region is also witnessing significant growth in logistics and warehousing, driving sustained demand for branded hospitality.

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The twin signings, Fortune Select Nashik and Fortune Jungle Resort Tadoba, emphasise ITC Hotels’ focus and strategic expansion across high-growth leisure, pilgrimage and emerging urban destinations, while deepening its footprint in one of India’s most dynamic hospitality markets.

With six operational hotels in Maharashtra including two Fortune properties, ITC Hotels continues to build scale in the state through a balanced mix of business, leisure and destination-led offerings.

Celebrating the two new signings, Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited, said, “Maharashtra continues to be a key growth engine for ITC Hotels. The addition of two new Fortune properties reemphasises our conscious desire to deepen presence in high-potential tier II destinations across the state. Nashik represents a unique convergence of spirituality, viticulture and emerging urbanisation, while Tadoba is gaining prominence as one of the most sought-after wildlife tourism circuits in the region.”

He further added, “This expansion allows for diversification of our portfolio beyond the metros, strengthening our leisure, destination-led offerings, and a meaningful contribution towards the growth of domestic tourism. We seek to combine strong cultural relevance with sustained economic momentum.”

Fortune Hotels deepens its presence and reiterates its commitment to exceptional hospitality across culturally rich, commercially relevant, and experience-led destinations with these new alliances:

1. Fortune Jungle Resort Tadoba: Set against the scenic backdrop of the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, this is Fortune Hotels’ first nature resort and third property in Maharashtra. A tranquil retreat in the wilderness, the resort will feature tastefully designed rooms that blend modern comfort with nature-inspired aesthetics. 

Guests will be able to unwind with amenities including a swimming pool, a wellness spa, and a children’s play area. The culinary offerings will include an all-day dining restaurant and a stylish bar, complemented by versatile event spaces ideal for intimate gatherings or post-safari unwinding. Crafted as a serene haven, the resort promises enriching experiences for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and leisure travellers alike. 

2. Fortune Select, Nashik: Scheduled to open in October 2028, the hotel will feature 105 well-appointed rooms with Fortune’s signature amenities like, 24×7 restaurant, expansive banquet and meeting spaces, a comprehensive suite of modern facilities designed for business travellers, leisure guests, and social and corporate events 

India’s wine capital, Nashik is home to several of the country’s leading vineyards and has evolved into a popular leisure and weekend getaway owing to its proximity to Mumbai and Pune. It is also a spiritual centre, renowned for its ancient temples, the Godavari ghats and the Kumbh Mela. Robust road, rail and air connectivity, supported by improving urban infrastructure, continues to drive hospitality demand in the region.

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Favourite Kerala Ayurveda & Wellness Centre successfully hosted Anubhava 2026 – New Delhi Edition, a flagship immersive event designed to showcase the excellence of authentic Ayurvedic traditions from “God’s Own Country.” Held at the prestigious The Leela Palace New Delhi, the event served as a refined platform for holistic wellness, bridging ancient wisdom with modern lifestyle needs.

The event was officially inaugurated by Michelle Woodley, President of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. Joining her were distinguished guests Rachna Kumar (FICCI FLO Wellness & Life Skills Committee) and celebrated Nutritional Specialist Yashika Sheikh.

The event also saw significant representation from the hospitality industry, including senior leaders from The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts, Sanjay Rai and Alok Chakravarty, alongside Prem Kamal, Sarath Madathil, and Latha Nair, representing The Leela Raviz Resorts, Kerala.

A core highlight of Anubhava 2026 was a series of interactive sessions led by senior Ayurveda Vaidyas from Favourite Kerala Ayurveda & Wellness Centres from God’s Own Country, Keralam. These experts provided profound insights into preventive healthcare and the practical application of Ayurveda in contemporary life. Guests also experienced a specially curated menu based on the Ayurvedic fundamentals of Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, demonstrating how nutrition can be tailored to individual body constitutions.

The New Delhi edition drew an elite audience, including senior leaders from the Indian travel trade, prominent corporate heads, and dignitaries from various international embassies and consulates. The event underscored the growing global demand for authentic wellness experiences rooted in tradition.

Anubhava 2026 continues to strengthen the legacy of Favourite Kerala Ayurveda & Wellness as a leader in delivering the true spirit of Kerala’s healing arts to a global audience.

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