IIT Roorkee Hosts Winter School on Globalization & Leadership
Roorkee, January 20, 2025: Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) in collaboration with Lancaster University and Birmingham University (UK), and NIT Rourkela, successfully concluded a five-day Winter School on “Globalization, Development, Gender, and Leadership.” the event was held at the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, IIT Roorkee, under the aegis of SPARC (Scheme for Promotion of Academic and Research Collaboration) and the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), Ministry of Education, Government of India. The convenor (project director) and co-convenors are Prof. Pratap Mohanty (IIT Roorkee), Prof. Pavel Chakraborty (Lancaster University, UK) and Prof. Narayan Sethi (NIT Rourkela).
The Winter School brought together renowned academicians, policymakers, and practitioners to discuss critical issues surrounding gender dynamics in enterprise growth and globalization. The program commenced with a one-day policy workshop, inaugurated by the Chief Guest, Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee, and Guest of Honour Shri Mrutyunjay Behera, Economic Advisor (Joint Secretary), Ministry of Education, Government of India.
In his address, Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant emphasized the importance of inclusive leadership in driving economic growth. He stated, “At IIT Roorkee, we are committed to fostering research and discussions that address global challenges. This Winter School is a significant step toward understanding and bridging the gender gap in leadership and enterprise, contributing to sustainable and inclusive development.”
The event also featured insightful deliberations from prominent experts representing institutions such as Ashoka University, Indian Institutes of Management, Azim Premji University, and Shiv Nadar University, as well as organizations like the World Bank, Good Business Labs, and IWWAGE.
Shri Mrutyunjay Behera remarked, “Gender parity is not just a moral imperative but an economic necessity. The deliberations at this Winter School highlight actionable insights that can influence policy and empower women to take leadership roles, enhancing organizational and national performance. The government has been taking a host of proactive steps in the direction”
Key topics discussed included the gender wage gap, labour force participation, and the transformative role of female leadership in boosting productivity, innovation, and financial performance in organizations. With India facing significant gender disparities in labour force participation—only 25% of women are active in the workforce, according to the latest PLFS data—the discussions highlighted pathways to achieve gender parity and its potential to add up to $770 billion to India’s GDP by 2025 (McKinsey, 2018).
The Winter School concluded with a renewed commitment to fostering collaborative research and policy innovation aimed at addressing gender disparities and promoting inclusive leadership. IIT Roorkee continues to lead such impactful initiatives, contributing to India’s progress toward a more equitable and prosperous future.
Ambuja Cements’ SEDI Enhances Rural Youth Skills in Nagaur for a Brighter Future
Rajasthan, 20 January 2025: Ambuja Cements, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, is dedicated to empowering communities through skill development initiatives. Through its Skill and Entrepreneurship Development Institute (SEDI), the Company’s CSR efforts have shaped the career of Surendra Barwal, a young graduate from Sanwaliyawas, Nagaur in Rajasthan.
After completing a 60-day course in business facilitation and IT skills at SEDI, Surendra secured a job as an Audit Officer at Fusion Microfinance Ltd., with a monthly salary of Rs. 28,301, helping him move beyond farming to support his family’s future.
Coming from a middle-class background, Surendra initially supported his education by coaching others but found it insufficient to meet his family’s needs. SEDI not only provided him with the necessary skills through its training programme, but also helped him land a stable job. His story has inspired many others from his village to join SEDI and pursue careers beyond agriculture.
With his employment, Surendra now contributes to his family’s income, raising their total monthly earnings to Rs. 80,000, significantly improving their quality of life. His success has earned him recognition in his community, where he is seen as a role model for perseverance and hard work. Surendra expressed his gratitude towards SEDI and Ambuja Cements for this transformation.
Ambuja Cements remains committed to facilitating sustainable livelihoods by empowering rural youth through skill-based training, securing a stronger future for communities across the nation.
Otters Club Squash Tournament 2025: Avaada Group Empowers a Stage for Champions
Mumbai, January 20, 2025: The Otters Club Squash Tournament 2025 concluded on a high note, leaving a lasting impact on the Indian squash community. Supported by Avaada Group, a leader in renewable energy, the event showcased a remarkable convergence of talent, passion, and sportsmanship.
The tournament, held from January 14 to 18, 2025 at Otters Club, Bandra, witnessed an impressive turnout, with 412 players competing across 15 draws. Participants traveled from cities across India, contributing to the dynamic energy levels and showcasing a vibrant mix of skills and talent. It featured participants from diverse categories, including Men, Women, Boys, and Girls, with detailed statistics as follows:
● Total Events: 15
● Total Draws: 15
● Total Players: 412
The tournament showcased remarkable performances, setting new benchmarks, and highlighting the immense potential of India’s young squash talent.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Sindoor Mittal, Vice Chairperson of Avaada Group, “We at Avaada believe in empowering communities through sustainable development and holistic growth strategies. Sports is an avenue that cultivates character, discipline, and resilience. Our goal with supporting the Otters Club Squash Tournament is to encourage youth and the younger generation of sports in India and that extends our vision of a brighter more inclusive future.”
Commenting on the tournament’s significance, Otters Club President, Ayaz Kazi stated, “The tournament has been a phenomenal success, showcasing the immense talent and passion for squash across the country. We are proud to create a platform where players, from budding talent to seasoned professionals, can compete and excel. We are deeply grateful to Avaada for their support in elevating the tournament’s stature and enabling us to deliver an unforgettable experience for players and spectators alike.”
The Otters Club Squash Tournament has long been recognized for nurturing young talent and fostering a love for sport. Avaada’s involvement reflects their commitment to supporting sports and empowering youth, aligning with their broader mission of promoting sustainable growth and development in various spheres. With top players, rising stars, and enthusiastic fans coming together, the tournament promises to be a highlight for sports enthusiasts, players, and coaches alike.
Scaler Innovation Lab and NeoSapien Team Up to Innovate India’s First AI-Driven Wearable Device
Mumbai, January 20th, 2025: Scaler, a soonicorn education provider in India, has partnered with NeoSapien, an early-stage startup developing an AI-powered wearable device to enhance human memory, decision-making, and productivity. NeoSapien, a Shark Tank India Season 4 participant, is the first company to join the recently launched Scaler Innovation Lab, a non-dilutive grant fund to support promising startups, offering not just financial assistance but also access to a high-quality workspace, resources, and a strong network of industry experts. This pioneering incubator fosters innovation in AI/ML, IoT, Robotics, and Blockchain.
NeoSapien stands out as a groundbreaking venture, being the first in India and among the pioneers globally to develop an AI-powered wearable. This device, created by cousins Dhananjay Yadav and Aryan Yadav, aims to redefine how individuals interact with technology, bridging gaps in communication while fostering deeper connections.
Through its partnership with Scaler Innovation Lab, NeoSapien will leverage state-of-the-art resources to advance its product development and scale operations. The collaboration includes:
- Grant Support: A non-dilutive grant of ₹10 lakh to support NeoSapien’s growth.
- Student Internships: Access to talented students from Scaler School of Technology, who will intern with NeoSapien to provide essential skilled talent.
- Expert Mentorship: Guidance from industry leaders at Scaler to accelerate research, development, and product implementation.
- Operational Assistance: Support in software testing and warehousing to streamline operational challenges.
“Scaler Innovation Lab is committed to empowering promising startups like NeoSapien to bring transformative ideas to life,” said Abhimanyu Saxena, Co-founder of Scaler and InterviewBit. “We are thrilled to embark on this journey with NeoSapien as our first partner and to contribute to the vibrant startup ecosystem by combining the expertise of our mentors and the talent of our students.”
NeoSapien Co-Founder Dhananjay Yadav commented, Joining Scaler Innovation Lab is a game-changer for us. The funding, mentorship, and access to top-tier talent will significantly boost our growth trajectory, enabling us to focus on what we do best—innovating and solving real-world challenges through technology.
During their Shark Tank India pitch, the founders showcased the immense potential of Neosapien and
their vision for the future of personal assistance, seeking ₹80 lakhs for 2.5% equity.
The Scaler Innovation Lab is designed to be a hub for groundbreaking ideas, providing startups with a collaborative environment and a robust support system to thrive. By partnering with NeoSapien, Scaler aims to foster innovation and prepare its Scaler School of Technology students for impactful careers in technology.
Bosch Presents Revolutionary Innovations in Safety and Low-Emission Mobility at BMGE 2025
New Delhi, India – Bosch Limited, a leading global supplier of technology and services showcases its innovative advancements towards the future of automotive sector at the Bharat Mobility Global Expo (BMGE) 2025, held from January 17–22. With a focus on state-of-the-art safety systems, advanced software solutions, and electrification breakthroughs, Bosch is presenting transformative solutions at two locations, aimed at shaping a safe, sustainable, and exciting tomorrow.
“The future of mobility will be defined by a decisive push towards electrification, more climate-friendly fuels, and seamless integration of AI-driven solutions.
Bosch is spearheading this transformation, by being ready for a sustainable and digitally empowered future. Bharat Mobility Global Expo provides us with a platform to showcase our portfolio, foster collaboration and demonstrate our efforts in enabling technologies that will redefine how we move for years to come,” said Guruprasad Mudlapur, President of the Bosch Group in India and Managing Director, Bosch Limited.
Visitors to the Bosch pavilion at Bharat Mandapam (Pragati Maidan) can explore a range of cutting-edge solutions including:
- Hydrogen Demonstrator Truck: Showcasing Bosch’s advancements in hydrogen technology, this experiential vehicle represents the company’s efforts to accelerate zero-emission and sustainability-oriented mobility. In India, hydrogen engines present a promising alternative to diesel for long- haul trucks. Bosch has invested approximately $2 billion in hydrogen technology globally, reinforcing its leadership in this domain.
- Vehicle Motion: Discover Bosch’s advancements in automotive safety technologies through features like Intelligent Turn Assist and Auto Vehicle Hold. While the former enhances maneuverability and safety during sharp turns or off-road conditions ensuring smoother, controlled turns, Auto Vehicle Hold adds convenience and safety during stop-and-go traffic conditions.
- Software & Services: Bosch is a pioneer in software-defined vehicle (SDV) innovation, driving the evolution of mobility. Experience its SDV expertise at the Expo via exciting live demonstrations of generative AI, advanced E/E architecture, cloud-native tools, and seamless on-device and cloud integration, integrating the user and the ecosystem as core elements of a personalized automotive experience.
- Advanced Rider Assistance Systems (ARAS): Get to know about Bosch’s exciting, advanced rider assistance systems comprising of ACC (adaptive cruise control), forward collision warning and blind spot detection. Leveraging Bosch’s radar sensor, brake system, engine management system and HMI (human machine interface), the system boosts rider awareness of their surroundings, contributing to increased comfort and rider reassurance.
At the Auto Components Show 2025 in Dwarka, Bosch is emphasizing on its hardware expertise by showcasing advanced EV components, diverse fuel injection equipment, sensors for various powertrains, braking systems, ADAS solutions and more coupled with an immersive experience around Bosch’s manufacturing solutions This exemplifies Bosch’s capability to seamlessly integrate hardware and software, delivering end-to-end capabilities to cater to an ever-evolving mobility landscape.
“At Bharat Mobility Global Expo, we present a range of advanced solutions that reaffirm our commitment to shaping India’s mobility future. From alternate powertrains to innovative safety solutions, software led capabilities, logistics and more, Bosch’s offerings are leading the way in creating a safer, sustainable, and digitally connected mobility ecosystem. As the sector evolves, our dedication to providing customers with solutions tailored to their success remains unchanged”, said Sandeep Nelamangala, Joint Managing Director, Bosch Limited and President, Bosch Mobility India.
Earthytweens Debuts Eco-Conscious Winter Wear for Kids with Style
Delhi NCR; 20th January, 2025: Earthytweens, a trailblazer in sustainable kids’ fashion, has unveiled its latest winter clothing collection designed to keep children warm, stylish, and environmentally conscious. The new range is tailored to meet the needs of modern parents who seek a blend of comfort, aesthetics, and sustainability for their little ones. With Earthytweens, every outfit tells a story of care—for both the child wearing it and the planet we all share.
The newly launched collection is crafted from 100% natural cotton, ensuring a soft, warm, and cozy feel during cooler days. Featuring gentle gathers at the chest, these outfits allow for ease of movement, making them perfect for outdoor play, casual outings, or family gatherings. The refined designs add a touch of elegance, while the sustainable production process reflects Earthytweens’ commitment to ethical fashion. This collection bridges the gap between functionality and fashion, offering parents the ideal choice for their children this winter.
“At Earthytweens, we believe kids’ clothing should be more than just stylish—it should embody comfort, safety, and sustainability,” said Nishant Kumar, Co-Founder of Earthytweens. “Our winter collection is a testament to this philosophy, designed to keep kids warm and happy while ensuring we stay true to our commitment to the environment. Parents can now dress their children in fashion-forward pieces without compromising on quality or values.”
The launch of this winter collection further cements Earthytweens’ position as a leader in the sustainable fashion space. Combining timeless designs with ethical practices, the brand continues to redefine kids’ fashion by offering apparel that resonates with style-conscious, eco-minded parents.
IIM Rohtak’s Infusion 2025 Marks a Grand Success in Annual Fest Celebrations
Rohtak, Haryana: IIM Rohtak hosted its flagship annual fest, Infusion 2025, a three-day extravaganza centered on the theme of Make Your Mark. The event brought together students, industry leaders, cultural enthusiasts, and participants from premier business schools across the country. The festival attracted over 10,000 attendees, with over 1,000 participants and representation from 15 colleges including other IIMs. Packed with high-energy events, engaging summits, and vibrant performances, it inspired participants to showcase their individuality and uphold its legacy of excellence in academia, sports, and culture.
A key highlight was the Leadership Summit on “Global Conflicts and Situational Leadership,” which brought together eminent speakers to share invaluable insights on leadership. Prof. Dheeraj Sharma, Director, IIM Rohtak, inaugurated the event by emphasizing the importance of situational leadership and highlighting the role of adaptability, resilience, and moral integrity in addressing unforeseen challenges. Building on this, the panel discussions further explored these themes. Shri Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar, IPS, Former Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, emphasized adaptability and decision-making with his three-box framework: the present, focusing on the skills and resources needed to succeed; the past, to be selectively forgotten; and the future, which requires active effort today. Shri Atul Karwal, IPS, Former DG, NDRF and Former Director at SVP National Police Academy, highlighted professional competence, communication, and leading by example. Shri Manmohan Singh, IPS, Former Special Director of the Intelligence Bureau, underscored the importance of empathy, ethics, and strategic foresight. The summit reinforced the need for visionary, ethical leaders who can navigate global challenges with agility and integrity—traits that were echoed throughout the fest as participants made their mark in diverse areas.
Over three vibrant days, Infusion 2025 brought together intellect, creativity, and entertainment in a seamless blend.The fest kicked off with the Sports Summit that featured inspiring talks by celebrated kabaddi players – Sandeep Narwal and Pardeep Narwal, who shared valuable insights on resilience, teamwork, and overcoming challenges. The intellectual discourse continued with the Film & Media Summit, featuring industry experts from NDTV, Sai Mehar Media, Hauterrfly, and 92.7 Big FM.The experts explored the transformative role of media in addressing societal issues and shaping public perceptions. The Townhall session, led by Mr. Ankit Agrawal, founder of InsuranceDekho, contributed to developing students’ entrepreneurial skills by offering concise insights into building businesses through adaptability and consumer-focused strategies and emphasizing the pivotal role of mentorship in entrepreneurial success.
Building on the momentum of insightful summits, Infusion’25 captivated attendees with a diverse array of management events, artistic expressions, and athletic excellence. The cultural program featured energetic performances in singing, dance, and beat-boxing, with signature evening events like EDM Night, Concert Night, and Comedy Night captivating audiences and creating unforgettable moments.
The sports segment, titled Advitya, brought a competitive edge to the fest with high-energy matches in football, basketball, badminton, and volleyball. Unique additions such as Pickleball and Box Cricket further elevated the excitement. Building on this spirited momentum, Aluminati added a unique dimension by uniting alumni and students through engaging activities and shared experiences, celebrating the collective pride and legacy of the institution.
Infusion 2025 was a resounding success, uniting talent, ideas, and energy in a celebration of creativity, excellence, and camaraderie. The fest embodied Prof. Dheeraj Sharma’s vision of thinking out of the box, trusting instincts, and building strong teams while overcoming self-imposed limits. Aligned with the spirit of “Make Your Mark,” it inspired participants to push boundaries, showcase their individuality, and embrace innovation, reinforcing IIM Rohtak’s legacy of excellence
Ayodhya Hosts Successful 108th Maharishi Jayanti, Revering Spiritual Legacy
Ayodhya, January 20, 2025: The historic city of Ayodhya witnessed a grand celebration of the 108th Maharishi Jayanti recently, at the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ramayan Vishwavidyalaya. The event honored the life and teachings of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the founder of the globally acclaimed Transcendental Meditation program, which has brought peace and enlightenment to millions worldwide.
The event was hosted under the auspices of Shri Ajay Prakash Shrivastava and graced by an illustrious gathering of dignitaries and saints, including Jagadguru Shankaracharya Swami Vasudevanand Ji Maharaj of Jyotirmath, M.P. Rajyasabha Dr. Sudhanshu Trivedi, Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak, Mayor Girish Pati Tripathi, Maharaja Dr. Tony Nader, Hanuman Garhi Sant Raju Das Ji, and Shri Champat Rai, General Secretary of Shri Ram Janma Bhoomi Mandir, alongside other prominent leaders and scholars.
Speaking about Maharishi Ji’s contributions, Dr. Sudhanshu Trivedi emphasized, “The teachings of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji have profoundly impacted modern society. His introduction of Transcendental Meditation has scientifically demonstrated how group meditation, known as the Maharishi Effect, can create coherence and harmony in collective consciousness. The relevance of Maharishi Ji’s vision is more significant than ever in today’s world, where inner peace and global harmony are urgently needed.”
Dr. Tony Nader expressed his deep admiration for Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji and his profound teachings. ‘Ramayana is there in everyone and within each of us. We have all the Vedas inside us. Maharishi’s vision has illuminated how this ancient wisdom is not only universal but also practical for achieving peace and harmony in today’s world.’
The celebrations commenced with the Kalash Sthapna, followed by the sacred Ram Tarak Yagya, a ritual symbolizing global peace and harmony, led by revered saints. Each evening, renowned poet Dr. Kumar Vishwas enthralled audiences with his mesmerizing Shri Ram Katha, weaving together profound wisdom and devotion in his storytelling. The spiritual fervor was further heightened by soulful bhajans from Bhajan Samrat Shri Om Prakash Ji, whose melodious renditions deeply resonated with attendees.
The festivities concluded with the Purnahuti of the Ram Tarak Yagya, blessings from saints, and heartfelt speeches by special guests. The 108th Maharishi Jayanti celebration was a resounding success, leaving participants spiritually enriched and inspired to uphold Maharishi Ji’s values of peace, wisdom, and unity.
Ravin Group Taps Ajay Devgn for 2025 Environment Day Campaign
Mumbai, January 20, 2025– Ravin Group, one of India’s fastest-growing business groups and a leader in sustainability and green initiatives in India, celebrated its remarkable 75th anniversary with an inspiring and colorful evening that brought together industry leaders, policymakers, Bollywood celebrities, and business magnates. The event, themed “Taking a Sustainable India to the World,” highlighted Ravin Group’s commitment to environmental sustainability, innovation, and reliability. It also recognized the company’s legacy in shaping India’s infrastructure and its dedication to creating a greener future.
At the grand event held at the Jio Convention Center, Mr. Ajay Devgn was introduced as the brand ambassador for the World Environment Day 2025 campaign. He unveiled the campaign poster, highlighting the collaboration between Ravin Group and the Bhamla Foundation as joint sustainability partners. The initiative is focused on combating plastic pollution, promoting sustainability, raising environmental awareness, and propelling India’s growth on the global stage.
Bollywood actor and businessman, Mr. Vivek Oberoi specially flew from Dubai to attend the remarkable event and introduced Pujya Shri Brahmavihari Swami, a spiritual leader and motivational speaker who leads international relations for the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha and the visionary behind the creation of the Temple in Abu Dhabi.
Celebrating Sustainability and Innovation, the event’s theme, “Taking a Sustainable India to the World,” was a reflection of Ravin Group’s long-standing commitment to creating a greener and more sustainable India while showcasing its role in the nation’s infrastructure development.
Ms. Pankaja Munde, Hon’ble Cabinet Minister for Animal Husbandry, Environment, and Climate Change, expressed her strong support for the initiative, emphasizing that the ministry would back efforts aimed at building a sustainable future.
Mr. Vijay Karia, Chairman and Managing Director at Ravin Group of Companies, concluded, “At Ravin Group, we are proud to be part of India’s growth story, with sustainability, reliability, and innovation at the core of everything we do. We are excited to continue this journey and contribute to the global push for environmental responsibility, all while propelling India’s economic progress.”
During the event, Bollywood actor and businessman Vivek Oberoi lent his support, saying, “This is a critical initiative, and it is heartening to see industry leaders come together for a common cause—ensuring that the future of our country and our planet is in safe hands.”
Mr. Ajay Devgn expressed his excitement about the initiative, saying, “It is an immense pleasure to be the flag-bearer for a greener tomorrow. I am grateful for this opportunity. Small changes can make a big difference, and I am committed to helping drive this vision forward.”
Dignitaries and Industry Leaders: The event was attended by key political figures including , Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Ashish Shelar, Minister for Information Technology of Maharashtra, Ms. Pankaja Munde, Cabinet Minister for Animal Husbandry, Environment, and Climate Change, Raghunath Anant Mashelkar, Indian chemical engineer and Shri Anurag Thakur, Member of Lok Sabha, and Ravi Kishan, Member of the Lok Sabha marking a significant milestone for Ravin Group’s sustainability mission.
Global Business Leaders: Notable business leaders, including Shri Ashish Chauhan, MD & CEO of NSE India, and Shri Nadir Godrej, Chairman & MD of Godrej Industries, were present, showing strong support for Ravin Group’s vision of sustainability and growth.
Bollywood Stars Shine: Bollywood icons like Ajay Devgn, Malaika Arora, Playback Singers Shaan, Sonu Nigam, Gulshan Grover, actor and film producer and Jackie Shroff, actor and producer, added glamour to the evening, highlighting the growing role of celebrities in supporting environmental initiatives.
Ravin Group’s 75-year legacy is marked by contributions to landmark infrastructure projects like Maha Metro Aqua Line, Mumbai Metro, and Hyderabad Metro. The company has pioneered innovations, such as introducing XLPE cables at PVC prices, and has been a staunch supporter of India’s renewable energy movement. Under Mr. Karia’s leadership, Ravin has become a global brand known for its dedication to sustainability and innovation.
During the event, Ravin Group presented sustainability awards to several distinguished individuals, including HH Brahmavihari Swami, Dr. Mashelkar. Other notable awardees included Shri Suresh Kotak, Shri Ashish Chauhan, Shri Ritesh Agarwal, Shri Manhar Udhas, Shri Vivek Oberoi, Shri Arnab Goswami, Shri Gulzar Saheb, Shri Lakshyaraj Singh Mewar, Shri Nadir Godrej, Shri Prasoon Joshi, Shri Sonu Nigam, Shri Vikas Khanna, and the late Rohit Patel was awarded posthumously.
The event also celebrated India’s transformative journey, from humble beginnings to becoming the world’s fifth-largest economy, highlighting the nation’s progress in manufacturing, infrastructure, and renewable energy. Initiatives like “Make in India,” “Atmanirbhar Bharat,” and “Gati Shakti” have fueled this transformation, positioning India as a global leader in sustainability and economic growth.
OTM 2025 Aims to Bring Travel, Tourism, and Business Together
20th January 2025, Mumbai: OTM, the leading travel trade show in India and Asia, is all set to return this January, promising to be bigger and more impactful than ever! The show will take place from January 30 to February 1, 2025, at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.
This year, OTM will host over 2,100 exhibitors and tourism boards from more than 60 countries and 30 Indian states and union territories. With over 40,000 qualified buyers from the travel industry, the grand event will offer travel brands unparalleled access to the fastest-growing travel market in the world—India. From leisure and luxury weddings to MICE, OTM connects global destinations with the Indian travel trade. The 3-day event will also welcome over 1,000 handpicked top buyers from India’s Tier 1, 2, and 3 cities and feature new exhibitors alongside global destinations. Mumbai, which contributes to more than 60% of India’s outbound travel and is the country’s primary departure point, is the perfect city to host OTM.
In this edition, OTM will host esteemed VIPs from around the globe, including Hon’ble Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Shri Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, H.E. Mr. Haim Katz, Minister of Tourism, Israel; Mr. Kittipong Prapattong, Deputy Governor for Digitalisation, Research, and Development, Thailand; Mr. Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Malaysia; Ms. Maia Omiadze, Head of the Georgian National Tourism Administration; and many more distinguished guests.
Moreover, it will also attract top corporate buyers from across India, including leading travel managers, MICE planners, and corporate procurement heads from India’s largest corporate houses, like Reliance Industries, Godrej Industries, Pidilite Industries, Raymond, and Tata Capital, among others.
As a platform where industry leaders, visionaries, and experts come together, the OTM Forum will address critical trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the global travel landscape. The Forum will kick off with a fireside chat between the Hon’ble Tourism Minister of India, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, followed by many insightful sessions with industry leaders during the day. The WeddingSutra Engage on Day 2 will bring together top wedding planners to explore the latest trends and opportunities in destination weddings and luxury celebrations. Some notable speakers at the event include Amanpreet Singh, General Manager of India & Southeast Asia, Airbnb, Neel Ghose, Country Manager & GM, India Skyscanner, Santosh Kumar, Country Head of Indian Subcontinent & Indonesia, Booking.com, Sanjay Pai, Vice President, Facilities, Corporate Travel, Hospitality & Director Aviation, Larsen & Toubro, Devendra Saraiya, Head, Travel & Procurement, Deloitte, and many more.
Expressing his views on the upcoming three-day event, Mr. Sanjiv Agarwal, Founder & CEO, Fairfest Media, Organisers of OTM, said ‘India is emerging as the future growth engine for global tourism. This year, OTM will bring together participants from over 60 countries and every corner of India. Many, if not most, of these global destinations, exclusively participate in OTM and no other travel show in the region. With stronger than ever participation from Indian states and global destinations alike, OTM is truly the meeting place for India and Asia’s travel industry.
Countries participating exclusively in OTM and no other major travel show in the region include Georgia, Greece, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Morocco, Peru, Philippines, Cambodia, Cayman Islands, France, Korea, Maldives, Uganda, Tanzania, and Visit Sarajevo. Apart from these countries, the event will also have official participation from several popular destinations like Azerbaijan, Brussels, France, Fiji, Malaysia, Mauritius, Moscow, Pattaya, Peru, Qatar, Sri Lanka, St. Petersburg, and Thailand, just to name a few.
OTM 2025 will be offering a diverse mix of exhibitors that includes leading hotels, airlines, national tourism organizations (NTOs), destination management companies, and travel tech providers. It is a one-stop platform to explore, network with tourist boards and destination representatives, and collaborate with industry leaders from every segment of the travel ecosystem.