Vo lu m e 2 . I s s u e 2 . J U n E 2 016 . ` 5 0 No.U(NDGPO)-01/2016-2017 Date of Publication: 14/06/2016 RNI No. DELENG/2015/62794 Posting Dt. 12-17/06/2016 Postal Reg. No. DL(ND)-11/6180/2015-16-17
H.E. Panos Kalogeropoulos, Ambassador of Greece believes that his nation’s offerings like ‘joy of life’, cuisines, culture and Mediterranean bounties have plenty in them to attract the discerning Indian outbound… page 20
Boost to Himachal tourism as ShimlaParwanoo NH 4-laning kicks off
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he Ministry of Road Transport and Shipping has given a go-ahead to long expected 4-laning of National Highway, connecting Shimla and Parwanoo. The ninety Kilometer stretch will be widened in three different sections, and is hoped to be completed in two years. The 27 kilometer stretch from Kaithali Ghat to Dhalli will be a completely new construction, featuring an ultra-modern single span 600 m long bridge at Malyana. Three tunnels, costing `1200 crore, will, also, be drilled near
Anandpur, Shogi and Dhalli. Once the highway is constructed, travel time from Shimla to Parwanoo is expected to be cut short by 45 minutes. Zirakpur in Punjab, on the outskirts of Chandigarh, was connected to Parwanoo by the Himalayan Expressway, built impressively by Jaypee Infrastructure, and was completed two years ago. With the new programme underway, Shimla would become accessible from the plains directly by the expressway.
CM Kejriwal seeks larger tourism vision for the city, expects industry to lead
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ourism in Delhi needs a perspective plan to, first, determine the direction of development, and then the capability to work together to achieve it, believes CM Kejriwal. Urging the industry to come up with innovative ideas to make the best use of Delhi’s tourism potential, the CM, in the immediate future, will look at delivering on some key ‘low-hanging fruits’. Enhancing interface with tourists in the digital world, the CM advocates for a transactional and not, merely, an informational website for Delhi tourism. In the immediate future, Delhi’s tourism landscape is likely to get a fillip with city’s key tourist destinations like Hauz Khas and Khan Market being substantially renovated. The Delhi government is also toying with the idea of night-bazaars and dedicated round-theclock operational shopping zones. On the MICE front, the state government has done away with unnecessary clearances for conducting events. “One can obtain permissions and all related NOCs in a matter of an hour. Delhi has been a host to a number of national and international events in the past few months,” says the CM. As a national capital and the gateway to India for the world, Delhi must lead by example. Delhi government’s pro-active stance augurs well for tourism. TourismFirst gathers the city government has been engaging with different industry forums and seeking answers from the stakeholders. These have been led by the CM personally and most ably assisted by the Delhi Tourism minister, Kapil Mishra. Their endeavour has been to bring as many stakeholders and points of view into active consideration so that tourism becomes an employment generator and revenue creator the city as a whole. Delhi is richly endowed with natural and manmade attractions over centuries, and these can be dovetailed into a larger gameplan for tourism.
India’s Silicon Valley set for a 7300 crore makeover
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engaluru, India’s answer to Silicon Valley, grapples with serious deficit of infrastructure. Worsening traffic and solid-waste management is a nightmare; roads are full of potholes as rain throws city’s crumbling drainage system into a tizzy. With only two years to go in the assembly elections, and infra deficit a politically sensitive issue, the Siddaramaiah government under the Nagarothana scheme will drive a spate of projects to revamp the city. A substantial sum of INR 7,300 crore has been earmarked for construction of massive road infrastructure expansion, construction of underground drainages, stormwater
drains and development of footpaths; a sum of 800 crore has been allocated towards construction of stormwater drains alone. Known for its parks and lakes, the government will inject 156 crore to rejuvenate city’s lakes and water-bodies. Bengaluru has a global stature in the service sector. Home to several IT giants, the city hosts a large number of foreign and domestic travelers, alike. Developing infra at par with global standards is a pre-requisite to emerge as a favorable destination. This upgradation, fittingly, comes at a time when India is courting nations around the world for larger investments. It makes all the right noises.
3–6 October, 2016. Pragati Maidan, New Delhi
tourism currents
Industry upbeat with the extension of etv to cover medical and yoga tourists (Page 4)
Liquor ban in Bihar translates into Nepal’s gain as liquor tourism gains momentum (Page 5)
States
Haveli Dharampura demonstrates the power of Old Delhi’s heritage and conservation (Page 8)
airlines & airports
Ajay Singh reminisces troubled days, looks ahead as SpiceJet celebrates its 11 years (Page 10)
hotels + resorts
Ginger Hotels will add 15-20 properties each year in key cities: Nikhil Sharma, COO (Page 18)
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this issue : june , 201 6
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Stronger diplomatic engagements bodes well for travel and tourism
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ndia, in the recent past, has been in news for all good reasons. Aimed at re-invigorating bilateral relations with plethora of countries, the government has gone all out on the foreign policy front. Over three dozen foreign tours by the PM in the last two years and a host of programs aimed at bringing foreign investments, have resulted in a dramatic rise in FDI inflows. Thanks to the roll-out of national programs like ‘Make in India’ and relaxed norms in FDI investment, according to several estimates, there has been a 40 percent rise in FDI inflows from 2014 in 2015. In the FY 2016, India bagged a billion dollars in FDI – a significant jump from 367 million US dollars in FY 2015. Several sectors like defence, pharmaceuticals and manufacturing are being thrown open for investments, resulting in greater exchange of services and people. There is already an increase in arrivals from Japan, indicated by the opening of Japanese-themed hotels and restaurants in Gurgaon and beyond. Yoga and medical tourists have been brought under the purview of etourist visa, enabling foreigners to benefit from Indian expertise in these areas. The present government, especially the PM, must be commended for taking Yoga to the international stage. Fittingly, the announcement of extension of e-visa to accommodate medical and yoga tourists comes days before India, and the world, gears up to celebrate second International Day of Yoga. From George Harrison, Madonna to, more recently, Morgan Freeman have all been fascinated by the mystic art of yoga and meditation, and peace and tranquil of the ghats of Ganges. It was no coincidence when PM, during his commendable speech at the Capitol Hill, mentioned that more Americans were bending for yoga than for a curved ball; America alone has over 30 million yoga practitioners. His statement reflects the growing power of health and wellness segments on the global stage, and how India’s soft-power of yoga was aligning us to play a more dominant role in that transformation. How we harness these opportunities remains to be seen. Medical tourism, too, has potential to become a principal pillar of nation’s tourism offerings. India, by the virtue of adequate skilled workforce and related infrastructure, is already an established player in the region. From traditional source markets like Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal, medical industry is expanding its foot-prints to, as far as, Africa and West Asia. Currently, expected to be around three billion dollars in market size, home-grown medical tourism industry is expected to be worth eight billion dollars before the end of this decade. India’s sweeping scale of diplomatic engagements, extending from closer home to beyond the Atlantic Ocean, is addressing a long-neglected anomaly of nation’s tourism industry – marketing. The industry has always rued concerted efforts on the part of government in marketing and promotion of destinations. India’s last successful marketing outreach, the ‘incredible India’ campaign, a decade and a half ago, managed to grab eye-balls, but since then much of the momentum has been lost. It is heartening to see that India is signaling its willingness to be open for business and movement. Now is the time to address bottlenecks. How about accreditation to reputed hospitals to help them compete on a global scale, or weeding out phony ashrams that sell half-baked yoga courses without any accountability. The road ahead has many challenges, but it is a solid step forward. In an age, where countries spend a fortune in creating favorable public opinion through PR firms, India is aiming at deeper ties driven by economic benefits, a move likely to be more beneficial in the longer run.
Ashok Gajapathi Raju
Minister, Civil Aviation on fare capping
These (capping airfares) are complicated problems. They don't have simplistic solutions ... Competition has by and large taken care of the (ticket) rates. Floors and caps go together. If you just say I will only cap (air ticket prices) then you won't have any airline. Anyone doing business doesn't want to make loss,"
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TB Jayachandra
Law minister, Govt. of Karnataka on 7,300 crore package for IT city’s makeover
Though the finance department had not agreed to the demand for Rs 7,300 crore and chose to downsize it to Rs 6,500 crore we have decided to release the whole amount keeping in mind the development works to be carried out in Bengaluru.
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Nitin Gadkari
Minister for Road Transport and Highways on developing niche tourism in India
Several clusters of islands like Andaman and Nicobar islands and Lakshadweep have been identified. They will be developed as centres for ayurvedic spas, culture and yoga. The idea is to tap foreign tourists as well as domestic ones.
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Neerabh Kumar Prasad
Principal secretary, tourism on the launch of water-sports facilities in Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh)
We are proud to announce the launch of a host of water sport and adventure tourism facilities in Andhra Pradesh. This launch will herald a new dimension in tourism in the state.
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Contents Tourism Currents
Airlines + Airports
Countries + Outbound
4. Industry upbeat with the extension of etv to cover medical and yoga tourists
10. Ajay Singh reminisces troubled days, looks ahead as SpiceJet celebrates its 11 years
20. ‘Joy of life’, Mediterranean offerings makes Greece an ideal Indian outbound, says envoy
11. CAPA report indicates growing PPP investment in airport infrastructure
21. Mandarin Oriental offers ‘electrifying Prague’ to help visitors re-connect with the city
5. Liquor ban in Bihar translates into Nepal’s gain as liquor tourism gains momentum
State/Destination: Delhi 6. CM Kejriwal bats for a long-term vision for Delhi tourism 6. Drought hit Bidar turns to tourism for jobs with ‘Swadesh Darshan’ 7. Kapil Mishra assures of stronger marketing and synergy in efforts 7. Goa eyes tourism ties with Croatia, Iceland and Israel to increase footfalls 8. Haveli Dharampura demonstrates the power of Old Delhi’s heritage and conservation 9. MPSTDC rolls out attractive offers, incentives to bolster tourism and infra 9. Spotlight on River Nila by tracing its monsoon journey; exploitation threatens survival
12. Air India to better service tertiary cities with ATR aircrafts: Srivastava
Hotels + Resorts
22. Air Asiana announces five flights a week from Delhi; South Korea set to gain traction
16. TN needs a larger vision; ban on alcohol will impact revenue, say industry insiders
22. New York’s official tourism website, NYCgo.com gets a makeover; smarter interface aids to ‘ease of travel’
17. Brigade Hospitality to strengthen foothold in the IT city with focus on niche segments 17. Sarovar’s Dehradun property boosts city’s banqueting and conferencing 18. Ginger Hotels will add 15-20 properties each year in key cities: Nikhil Sharma, COO 18. Qatar’s Al Sawari comes to Agra, signs MoU with the Leela group 19. Sensible, Sustainable, Superlative: The Fern tourism product
Navin Berry navin@tourismfirst.org features editor: Priyaanka Berry priyaanka@tourismfirst.org senior writer: Shashank Shekhar shashank@tourismfirst.org editor:
Niche Tourism: Shopping 23. Macy’s offerings in-sync with the American character makes it a key outbound product
Niche Tourism: Museums 24. Tarun Thakral rues lack of interface, basic hygeine for dismal show of museums
The Last Page 26. PM Modi plays the role of Brand Ambassador for Destination India as he travels the world
Tourismfirst is owned, published and printed by Navin Berry and printed at Anupam Art Printers. B-52, Naraina Phase II, New Delhi. It is published from 36-37, 3rd Floor, Indra Palace, H-Block, Connaught Place, New Delhi – 110 001. Tel: 011-43784444. Total pages 28
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Industry upbeat with the extension of etv to cover medical and yoga tourists The government has eased tourist e-visa norms to accommodate tourists arriving for medical and yoga related purposes. This move, likely to push inbound numbers – given India’s expertise in both areas – indicates stronger willingness to put to good use soft-power of yoga, spirituality and health in showcasing India to global audiences. By Shashank Shekhar
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TV (Electronic tourist visa) scheme, launched in 2014 to attract larger global outbound into India, in a first, has been extended to accommodate medical tourists and aspiring yoga teachers. Further, discussions have already commenced on increasing validity of duration of stay upto four from, currently, one month. Government’s announcement on the yoga front, fittingly, comes days before the second International Day of Yoga. In a welcome step forward from initial stance of providing tourist visa strictly for the purpose of recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to friends or relatives, casual business visit and
Pandit Radheshyam Mishra Founder-director, Yoga Life Society Ujjain
We, now, expect a fifty percent increase in number of visitors to our organization. It is, indeed, a welcome move by the central government, especially when they have been stressing on yoga, bringing it back in the spotlight.
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short duration medical treatment, now, the government has decided to provide tourist and e- tourist visa to visitors who wish to enroll for a short-term yoga training course. It is aimed at popularizing ancient Indian art of meditation and spirituality in the international arena. In a tweak, the policy for obtaining tourist visa now mentions ‘participation in a yoga program’ as a valid reason for application. Several yoga schools and senior exponents have hailed government’s decision. “We, now, expect a fifty percent increase in number of visitors to our organization. It is, indeed, a welcome move by the central government, especially when they have been stressing on yoga, trying to bring it back in the spotlight,” said Pandit Radheshyam Mishra, founder-director of Ujjain’s famed Yoga Life Society. Sharing the he had noticed a visible im-
this decade. Numbers are substantial; India catered to 1, 84, 298 medical tourists in 2014. Some of the key cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai and Bengaluru have immensely benefited by the availability of adequate hospitals and thriving air-connectivity. Bhavdeep Singh, CEO, Fortis Healthcare termed it an outcome of persistent efforts by the larger tourism industry. “Industry had been lobbying for some time now. It is a by-product of the work put in. We were involved in raising this issue on several forums, including meeting with government officials on a continuous basis. We are pleased to have it in place,” he said, reacting to the news. He termed medical tourism market a big opportunity waiting to be cashed in on. “India is yet to tap the medical tourism market in a manner befitting its stature and availability of related infrastructure. We have the best doctors and world-class facilities in several cities, which can help us attract a large number of tourists,” he said. When asked about key source markets for Fortis Healthcare, he highlighted that there had been a profound shift in markets from previous years. “Five years ago, we catered to large number of patients coming from the sub-continent, Sri Lanka and close by. Now, our markets have expanded to countries in Africa, Middle-east and, as far as, Eastern Europe,” mentioned the CEO. Looking ahead, it is a step forward in the right direction. Yoga and medical tourism are India’s innate strengths. Both these sectors have immense potential waiting to be channelized, but would need a lot more than just Bhavdeep Singh easier visa facilitation. “I think it is time CEO, to look at accreditation to add more Fortis Healthcare credibility to institutions. It will help us make deeper inroads into markets Industry had been lobbying for it for some like Western Europe and the USA,” said time now. It is a by-product of the work Bhavdeep Singh. put in. We were involved in raising this issue on several forums, including Yoga faces a tougher battle, as, meeting with government officials on a thanks to its popularity, a number of continuous basis. We are pleased phony ashrams have propped up on to have it in place. every nook and corner of religious towns. In absence of any certification procedure, most of them add little
pact of e-visa on tourism numbers, he said “I found out, during my visit abroad, that there are a number of countries where India does not have any representation. I met people in Latvia and Estonia who told me that they had to go to Finland to apply for an Indian visa. E-visa has certainly settled that.” Highlighting the power of yoga in attracting footfalls and calling yoga a ‘global phenomenon’, he said “yoga has the soft-power to bring the world to India. Such is the interest of global of community in health and wellness. There are many countries in the world that have taken a keen sense of interest in yoga. If you couple it with easy visa facilitation, sky is the limit for tourism and inbound numbers.” As the e-visa facility is also being ex-
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☛ Medical tourism market is currently capped at 3 billion USD and likely to reach 8 billion by 2020. India is a major center for medical tourism, especially for countries in Africa and West Asia. ☛ Extending e-visa facility to tourists eager to learn yoga is aimed at popularizing yoga on a larger scale. tended to accommodate medical tourists, India’s clout as an affordable, reliable and a world-class medical destination is likely to get a push. Its success in attracting hordes of foreigners from Africa, the USA, Europe and the Middle-east has assiduously nurtured a market – currently pegged at 3 billion US dollars – which is expected to grow to a whopping 8 billion dollars by the end of
value to India’s offerings. “It is important for the government to weed-out such ashrams and schools. There must be a mechanism to highlight those which are genuine schools of learning,” stressed Pandit Radheshyam Mishra. The impact of this extension will be measured in coming months, but the decision has sent all the right signals.
Water sports in Vijayawada, new hotels to strengthen AP’s profile With a gradual change in tourist preference patterns over the years, traditional tourism has given way to inclination towards additional entertainments such as water sports and adventure tourism. To cater to this ever rising group of tourists and with a vision to make Andhra Pradesh, the most preferred destination, the sunrise state is all set to give its visitors a host of additional offerings with the launch of a host of water sports and adventure tourism facilities. In line with the surge in tourist interest in water sport activities, the state has already introduced a plethora of such facilitates. Parasailing, jeep parasailing, para-motoring, water skiing and speed boat in Bhavani Islands in Vijayawada, to name a few. Work is also well underway to replicate the same across other key beaches such as Rishikonda, Bheemili, Mangamaripeta, Thotlakonda, among others. In the popular tourist destination of Papikondalu in Rajahmundry, two houseboats, fitted with best-in-class amenities, have been launched with one and three bedroom capacities respectively. To strengthen the tourism development in the state, AP is also launching 33 hotels offering more than 2766 rooms and with a total investment of INR 2400 crores. Notable global brands such as Taj group, ITC group, Accor group Holiday Inn Associates and JW Marriot have already invested in such projects. Commenting on the development, Neerabh Kumar Prasad, Principal Secretary to Government, Tourism and Culture, said “We are extremely proud to announce the launch of a host of water sport and adventure tourism facilities in Andhra Pradesh. This launch will herald a new dimension in tourism in the state.” “Sport and adventure are the two most integral parts of youth life and these facilities will have a strong appeal to come and enjoy a memorable experience in the state.” he added.
tourism curre nts
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Liquor ban in Bihar translates into Nepal’s gain as liquor tourism gains momentum Bihar government’s recent directive of imposing a blanket ban on alcohol has turned the fortunes of towns in Nepal, adjoining the Indian borders, bolstering a niche segment of tourism. Travel agents, however, fear huge losses from foreign footfalls as they are likely to head to nearby states with similar offerings and plenty of watering holes. By Shashank Shekhar
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epal has been in midst of a political slugfest, since the onerous process of drafting the constitution was initiated, causing a fair degree of internal strife and, consequent, disturbances. Adding to that, the devastating earthquake that rocked the Himalayan kingdom has hampered the larger tourism industry. However, a recent political development in Bihar is proving to be a blessing in disguise for the mountain nation. In an attempt to court women voters of the state, Bihar CM Nitish Kumar, staying true to his poll-time promise of prohibiting the sale and consumption of all forms of alcohol, declared a blanket ban that was enforced from the first of April. This decision comes after the state had recently
bars and clubs. Unlike Gujarat, where foreigners and NRIs are issues special quota permits for thirty days, there are no exemptions. On a national level, states like Gujarat, Nagaland, parts of Manipur, Lakshadweep and, from 2014 in a phase wise manner, Kerala have enforced a ban on the sale of liquor. Coming back to Nepal, Biratnagar and Janakpur – small towns of Nepal bordering Bihar– are swarming with tourists from Bihar in the summer season, giving rise to a niche segment, liquor tourism. Most of these tourists cross-over the border from adjoining areas, stretching
future for the hospitality industry.” Apart from an apparent loss in revenue from tourism, on the intrastate front, there is a lurking fear of loss of revenue from, both, domestic and international footfalls, too. Some argue that Bihar’s major pull has always been Buddhist tourists, coming pre-dominantly from ten-odd countries from Southeast Asia. Although, a fair share of footfalls comes purely for religious tourism, blanket ban on alcohol will act as a deterrent, feel Ram Kripal Yadav Central Minister of Drinking Water and Sanitation (MoS) and senior BJP leader
It is nothing but a publicity stunt by the CM. I have been told that liquor is being smuggled via porous state borders through roads and rivers. Not only is this a dangerous trend for an ailing state economy, grappling with huge loss in revenue, but also poses a grave threat to the health of poorest of people who would be buying such spurious liquor.
☛ There is considerable movement into Nepal from towns close to borders. Hotels in Napelese towns like Janakpur and Biratnagar emerge as major beneficiaries. ☛ A double whammy for hotels in Bihar, industry fears loss of large conferences and weddings to neighbouring states of Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh. imposed a ban on sale and consumption of country and spiced liquor in rural areas, making Bihar one of the few states in the country to go dry. The government has also decided to revoke alcohol licenses of hotels,
from Jogbani in the east to Kishanganj in the west, in search of watering holes. Better days for pubs and bars aside, budget hotels in towns adjoining the Indian border are registering never before occupancy rates.
our take
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circulation, in perpetuity. rohibition is being touted as a remedy of all ills in society. And one Yes, tourism suffers but what suffers state after another is endorsing this more is the credibility and maturity of our policy. This has deep ramifications, and society. Responsible living should be the needs a second look. It is not for tourmantra that we should teach and values ism that we need to be careful. Not for of moderation are what our people must tourism alone, but for the larger good of inculcate. Such populist preaching leads our society. Banning is never a viable and society nowhere, ultimately. Drinking in sustainable solution, education is! We itself is not evil, it is only when in excess need to provide more does it become evil. jobs, provide a viable With regards to With regards to tourism, it is not tourism, it is not just for social security network just for the visitor, both foreign the visitor, both foreign and more education. and domestic, but also for the Banning produces even and domestic, but also average city folks, we believe more undesirable social that prohibition brings with it an for the average city evils, corruption and folks, we believe that element of being un-welcome, alternate channels of un-caring, and accompanying prohibition brings with sense of immaturity. supply, that give rise to it an element of being We therefore welcome the spurious and adulterun-welcome, un-caring, decision of the newly elected ated materials – people and accompanying government in Kerala to say don’t give up drinksense of immaturity. they will review the ban. ing just because it is We therefore The sooner it brings sanity, banned. None of this the better, and we hope it is welcome the decision reviewed favourably. is being expressed first of the newly elected time, except that for government in Kerala to the sake of populism, say they will review the particularly at the time of elections, it ban. The sooner it brings sanity, the better, becomes a vote catcher and gullible votand we hope it is reviewed favourably. We ers tend to swallow it. How unfortunate, also hope other state governments find indeed. The state suffers official revenue, reasons for a review, and instead spend commercial transactions go underground the money earned on educating their – surest way to ensure black money in people.
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Lodge-owners in Janakpur are cashing in on the influx by increasing room-rates by over thirty percent. “We get bus-loads of people from Bihar; it is like a perennial wedding season. Even with an increased tariff, we are clocking around 85-90 occupancy rate on most days,” said a senior staff of hotel Rama in Janakpur. Reacting to the decision of outright ban of liquor in the state, Central Minister of Drinking Water and Sanitation (MoS) and senior BJP leader Ram Kripal Yadav launched a scathing attack on the state government. “It is nothing but a publicity stunt by the CM. I am all for liquor ban as its ill-effects are well-known. But, what I do not seem to understand is the sudden change of heart. It is the same government under CM Nitish Kumar that went out of its way, in its previous tenure, to issue innumerable liquor permits pushing alcohol deep into the hinterland of the state,” he said. Pointing towards an increase in smuggling of hooch from neighbouring states and, bordering, Nepal, he added “I have been told that liquor is being smuggled via porous state borders through roads and rivers. Not only is this a dangerous trend for an ailing state economy, grappling with huge loss in revenue, but also poses a grave threat to the health of poorest of people who would be buying such spurious liquor.” Taking a dig at Bihar government, the minister questioned whether CM Kumar’s long-standing commitment of improving tourism in Bihar was going to be achieved through these measures. He expressed concern on the woes of the hospitality industry in the state, noting that “there are only a handful of mid-segment hotels and their businesses would be majorly impacted. Given this regressive measures in place, I do not expect the situation to improve in the near
a number of travel agents. Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a prominent travel agent argued that the state, by choosing to keep hotels in the purview of the ban, has signaled that tourism does not figure in the list of state government’s priorities. “There is already a dip in number of foreign tourists into Bihar, compared to the previous year. Severe heat-wave may be one reason, but liquor ban is definitely going to hurt us in the coming months. Foreigners will find Uttar Pradesh and Nepal as better options because of their well-rounded tourism products,” he said. CM Nitish Kumar has reasoned that social ills that accompany liquor consumption were reasons that drove the government to take this drastic measure. But, many industry experts believe that instead of imposing a ban, states would do better for themselves, if they increase excise duty and use the additional revenue to create sensitization on over-indulgence. Instead of evolving mechanisms to educate people, states are resorting to out-right ban, which has severe implications for the future of tourism and hospitality industry. More so, by adopting extreme measures to enforce the ban, the government is relegating way too much authority to the local police, increasing chances of corruption and smuggling. Concurring to the idea, the minister, too, batted for sensitization and awareness campaigns to create consensus in the society. “There must be more attempts in that direction. Blanket ban can never be a sustainable solution to issues,” Ram Kripal Yadav said. Given that Kerala is already battling with instances of smuggling of spurious liquor since the ban came into effect, it raises suspicion about Bihar taking a similar route in coming months. In any case, tourism is likely to be the first causality of this diktat.
state /de stination: de lhi
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CM Kejriwal bats for a long-term vision for Delhi tourism Arvind Kejriwal donned the listener’s hat as a select group of industry stakeholders met with Delhi CM in the secretariat. High on agenda were issues related to taxation, product enhancement and need for a long-term vision for tourism in Delhi. He assured his full support to the industry. Excerpts of his take on issues and more: By Shashank Shekhar
bazaars, which are easily doable, have come forth,” he said. Suggesting an overhaul of Delhi tourism’s online outreach, he batted for, not only, an informative but a transactional website, wherein one could book reservations for entertainment shows, restaurants and cabs.
CM on immediate deliverables
“I have little knowledge of the intricacies of tourism industry. I was acquainted with a number of new facets during the course of this dialogue. From what I gather, there are a large number of low-hanging fruits; issues that can be immediately resolved, yielding very good results. There are many areas that needed medium and long term planning for visible impact. I could sense that the issue of luxury tax needs to addressed, but the matter is handled by the excise and entertainment commissioner and I was not aware that this will be the issue which will be discussed prominently, else I would have called him.”
Industry could manage the institute, government will provide infrastructure.
Government needs to be convinced about the merit of reducing luxury tax
Ensuring an audience on this issue, he promised to have the commissioner present in the next meeting to have a discussion on it with an open mind. He stressed that the government had a business-friendly outlook. “I can only tell you that in this year’s budget, by and large, we have reduced taxes across the board. We have reduced VAT. All of it was done without any aggressive lobbying by those respective sectors. We were congratulated by representatives of various industries who admitted that there was a change in modus operandi of the government. Our actions were based on conviction. Once we were logically convinced about reducing taxes, we went ahead with it,” he said. Asking to convince the government on luxury tax issue with logic, he said that once the government was convinced, there would be no hesitation in a roll back.
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☛ Perspective plan for Delhi to make it a vibrant city like London remains to be created. ☛ Night Bazaars, over-haul of key markets and a transactional tourism website could be rolled out soon. Law on luxury tax being misinterpreted
Referring to the law which forced hotels to shell out tax on printed tariff, he said “entertainment commissioner tells me that the provision is already in the law. The law is being misinterpreted, so maybe we can have a meeting with him and ask him to issue a clarificatory order. He is of the opinion that no change in law is required, hotels need to pay tax on the applied rate and not printed rate.” On the argument that Delhi was losing out on business from destinations like Jaipur and Agra due to exorbitant tax structure, he noted that “I think that when a person comes
On the question of need for inculcating adequate skilled manpower, CM readily agreed for co-operation. “We would be more than happy to work with you (stakeholders). In fact, we are open to having the hospitality industry run the institute. The governWhy cannot we ment will provide entire become a destination necessary infrastruclike London? If some ture.” of you can form Talking about a coma committee and mittee to monitor tourism envisage a practical long-term plan for related projects and initiathe city, we will take tives, Arvind Kejriwal said it forward. Please that instead of having a understand that government appointed there are agencies board – and he had seen like Police that are plenty of them – industry not managed by us. Therefore, keeping in needed to come forward mind the parameters, and carry the mantle. please come Sharing that the govforward with doable ernment had done away suggestions. with unnecessary clearances for conducting events, he said that “one can obtain permissions and all related NOCs in a matter of an hour. Delhi has been a host to a number of national and international events in the past few months.”
to stay in Delhi, he will stay in or around Delhi. It is difficult to believe that he would shift to Jaipur only because of higher taxes. He may well go to Noida and Gurgaon.”
Delhi needs a perspective plan for tourism; must have a transactional website Agreeing to the need for a perspective plan for the city, CM noted that Delhi needed to have a long-term goal and then work backwards to achieve it. “There is need for a radical change. Some good suggestions like dedicated zones for round the clock shopping, commercial activities and night-
Drought hit Bidar turns to tourism for jobs with ‘Swadesh Darshan’
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idar district of Karnataka lies far away from the IT hub of Bengaluru, some 700 kilometers away, bordering Maharashtra and Telangana, and has been subject of government’s apathy for decades. Rich in architecture, history and religious significance, the city has over thirty tombs and several forts, besides being one of the holiest places for Sikh pilgrims. Bidri artwork, an intricate metal handicraft, is a specimen of fine craftsmanship. Bidar’s tourism potential is immense, but footfalls are measly. With the quality and variety of products at Bidar’s dis-
Create a vision document with clear action plan
He re-assured that the government was going to be nimblefooted in implementing good ideas that were brought to his attention. “Why cannot we become a destination like London? If some of you can form a committee and envisage a practical long-term plan, we will take it forward. Please understand that there are agencies like Police that are not managed by us. Therefore, keeping in mind the parameters, please come forward with doable suggestions,” he stressed. He, however, requested for gaining clarity on short, medium and long terms goals. “Otherwise, the entire exercise of formulating a board becomes redundant. Please hand us over a crisply laid out vision document in under a month’s time which will highlight our way forward,” he concluded.
posal, its chances of becoming a major tourist draw is uncontested. Its strategic location can also help catapult footfalls into neighbouring states. However, owing to prolonged neglect, not much of it has yet been realized. Its misfortune does not end here. The region has been drought-hit, facing serious crisis in the recent months. Some of it could change in the coming days, as the state government has recently sent a proposal to the MOT under the centrally sponsored ‘Swadesh Darshan’ scheme – which aims at integral development of theme-based circuit – to connect important forts. The decision is aimed at creating adequate alternative employment for locals. “We have submitted a
274-crore proposal to develop a tourism circuit connecting Bidar Fort, Basavakalyana Fort and Gulbarga Fort. A presentation was also made and the proposal was discussed in detail in a recent meeting,” Bidar Deputy Commissioner Anurag Tiwari told PTI. In the recent months, three forts received around twenty thousand tourists in a month’s time. After the proposed development is undertaken, these forts are expected to witness a threefold increase in footfalls, feel district tourism department officials. As per available reports, the central government has asked the state government to examine the feasibility of connecting destinations like Bijapur and Hampi in the circuit.
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Kapil Mishra assures of stronger marketing and synergy in efforts Speaking recently to a select group of stakeholders, detailing some key undertakings of the Delhi tourism department, Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra assured that Delhi’s inadequate marketing and branding as a destination was already being addressed by the government. He also outlined numerous projects that would boost Delhi’s credentials as a city and a destination. By Shashank Shekhar
offerings to the world,” he said.
Proactive measures undertaken to address issues
Beautification of Hauz Khas and other key areas on the cusp; food-courts and restaurants zones mooted
Kapil Mishra spelled out numerous steps undertaken by the government to improve tourism and related infrastructure in the capital. By and large, the delegation highlighted the need for a joint branding exercise, revision of tax on printed tariff, perspective plan for tourism, and the need for connecting the dots to create a seamless experience for travellers and citizens, alike. “I agree that we need to work together by having a body or a committee, where we can sit together to brainstorm ways for achieving the longterm goal. I am happy to note that most of the concerns shared are already being addressed by the AAP government,” he said. Showcasing his government’s pro-active stance on tourism related matters, he noted that a separate budget of around 35 crores was earmarked, only, for branding and marketing campaigns and added that the government was soon going to launch a campaign, at least, at par with Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh in quality.
To add more value for tourists coming into Delhi, and on the suggestion of setting up of food-courts and restaurants in earmarked zones of the city, Kapil Mishra informed that the AAP government was already on course of planning restaurant hubs. “We are working with people in Hauz Khas village and outline of the plan is already prepared. We will have a complete makeover of Hauz Khas village.
We are working very closely with NRAI (National Restaurant Association of India); after Hauz Khas, we will be undertaking renovation of Khan Market, Connaught Place and Karol Bagh.” He noted that that it was going to take 8-9 months before the Signature Bridge – an ambitious and much-delayed project linking North Delhi to East Delhi and Ghaziabad – could be thrown open for people. “We are planning to develop restaurant facility right below the bridge. It will be undertaken in the PPP mode,” he explained.
Committed to tourism; budget not an impediment for innovative ideas
Replying to the suggestion of employing tourism police at tourist spots, he said that there already was a provision for the same under Delhi police, but it stood non-functional, as of now. “We are trying to explore the possibility of Delhi government having tourism police managed by civil
Delhi to have a world-class festival coming November, to be an annual affair
Kapil Mishra Tourism Minister
We are working with people in Hauz Khas village and outline of the plan is already prepared. We will have a complete makeover of Hauz Khas village. We are working very closely with NRAI (National Restaurant Association of India); after Hauz Khas, we will be undertaking renovation of Khan Market, Connaught Place and Karol Bagh.
Addressing the issue of absence of a world-class festival in the capital, he shared that Delhi government will be hosting a larger Delhi festival, on the lines of Jaipur literature festival, in the coming November. “We have separated a budget of `30 crores for the same, and will make it an annual affair. The event will be on the lines of globally famed Edinburg and Dubai festival,” said Kapil Mishra. He also mentioned that a draft policy for single-window clearance for cinema tourism had already been prepared. “We will soon be making a presentation. It will add strengthen our
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Goa eyes tourism ties with Croatia, Iceland and Israel to increase footfalls
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tate governments have long advocated the need for engaging with global markets on their own. It has distinct advantages; it helps state govern-
ments’ circumvent much of the processes and policies put forth by the central tourism ministry, and allow states to focus on core areas of their interest. Goa has moved a
step forward in that direction as in an attempt to increase footfalls into the all-year-destination with Indian Ambassadors to Croatia, Iceland and Israel extending an
defense volunteers and guides, but it is still an idea which is under study,” he said. Highlighting government’s commitment to tourism, he shared that the department had an allocation of a budget of over hundred crores. “Also, we have an assurance from the Hon’ble CM that budget would not be a constraint in Implementing a good idea. Budget will not be a barrier for any ‘out-of-box’ idea,” said Kapil Mishra. He further shared that the draft of Delhi creative industrial development operation was ready and the tourism department was working closely with the event industry of the city. “We are the first ones to have given a single-window clearance to the event industry. Over the last three months, we have seen artists like A R Rehman, Zubin Mehta, Farhan Akhtar, and companies like Disney coming to Delhi and organizing their events,” he added.
Work in tandem to inform tourists; management institute must have industry’s participation and guidance
Requesting industry stakeholders to popularize shows and exhibitions, happening almost on a daily basis, for creating more travel and tourism, he said “private events aside, there is a lot happening in organizations like Sahitya Kala Parishad, so if we have a platform where we can share these information with eachother and to the tourist, we will see greater interest in Delhi as a destination. Tourists will gladly stay for two more days in the city.” On the request for involvement of industry stakeholders in designing and training of curriculum for budding hospitality professionals, to address the mismatch between demand and supply of skilled manpower, the minister said “we have instituted Delhi Institute of Management, and I welcome the idea of partnering with the hospitality industry in designing their curriculum and imparting knowledge. Hotel industry stakeholders can share their requirements for the same. The government will be more than happy to partner with them.”
invitation to the state for promoting its diverse tourism facets. The move is aimed at boosting travel and trade ties between Goa and respective countries in the near future. Welcoming initiatives for an exchange of tourism ties between Goa and Croatia, Iceland and Israel, Cabral elaborated on new tourism activities and initiatives recently launched by Goa Tourism that would interest the three countries. Nilesh Cabral, Chairman, GTDC noted that “We would also like travel and tour operators from Croatia, Iceland and Israel to visit Goa to witness and experience the various tourism facets so that they go back and enthuse their nationals to visit this State. Goa is now a 365 day tourist destination. We have recently launched a new interactive Website and Mobile App which enables tourists to access information on Goa and plan
their vacations accordingly at the click of a button.” The three Indian Ambassadors were also shown a brief documentary film on Goa Tourism giving insights on the state’s bountiful aspects. Reacting on the development, Sandeep Kumar, Ambassador of India to Croatia said, “Croatia wants to expand its tourism sector and we are looking at an exchange of concrete ideas in promotion of tourism and cultural ties between Croatia and Goa and furthering it with business retreats and investment opportunities in Goa and India.” Representatives from the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) were also present for the interaction session where several suggestions and ideas were shared on promoting tourism and cultural ties between Goa and the three countries, besides insight into monsoon tourism and night life in Goa.
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Haveli Dharampura demonstrates the power of Old Delhi’s heritage and conservation Vijay Goel is a familiar name in Delhi circles. A two time Lok Sabha MP, currently a member from the Upper House, has recently leased his renovated property, ‘Haveli Dharampura’ to WelcomHeritage. Constructed in 1887, this sprawling haveli has been carefully restored by a painstaking effort that stretched for six long years. Vijay Goel talks about challenges in undertaking the delicate task and the future of Chandni Chowk in a candid interview. Excerpts: By Shashank Shekhar
This property had four tenants, too. Also, holding the structure and making sure that it did not crumble was a major challenge as we wanted to be as original as possible in restoration. It was a difficult exercise. These projects need a lot of passion, time and money. Now we envision making this haveli a cultural centre for the city and the country.
Why did you venture into Chandni Chowk?
You see, Chandni Chowk is not new for me and heritage is in my heart. I was twice chosen as a Member of Parliament from here, so it is a well-known place to me. There is a book on this place called “the emperor city” written by me, as well. During the days when I represented the constituency, I had initiated a program called ‘chaudvin ka chaand’ which saw a participation of over five lakh people. Once, a great square, Chandni Chowk has lost its glory. There is a lot of congestion, traffic, dirt, wires hanging from the electricity poles and unauthorized construction, besides constant destruction of havelies and other old-age architectural beauties. So, the reason to choose this place was my passion for development of this area. It is important to preserve our heritage and our ganga-jamuni tradition of old Delhi for coming generations. Sadly, much of its heritage is dying because of apathy.
How did you think of making it a hotel? It has an uncharacteristic location. When we brought the property, we wanted to make it a museum. But people suggested that it was way too big to become a museum and maintaining it was going to be a huge task, too. So, we moved towards making it a self-sustaining project.
How was the challenge of renovating the property? It was a dilapidated structure, was not it? Why did you choose it in the first place?
It was renovated not for the purpose of making a hotel, but simply for the sake of renovation. There were a number of reasons for choosing that particular haveli. First, it is situated in the heart of the Chandni Chowk. It is the centre of Kirani bazaar, Dariba, Nogra, Jama Masjid and Red Fort. Secondly, it is on
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Vijay Goel Hon’ble Member, rajya Sabha
When we brought the property, we wanted to make it a museum. But people suggested that it was way too big to become a museum and maintaining it was going to be a huge task, too. So, we moved towards making it a self-sustaining project.
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the ‘hundred-foot’ road, yet it is in the lane. Third, and most importantly, it had all the features of a haveli like ‘chajaa’, ‘dodda’, arches, pillars and ‘jaali’. It had Red stone and Dhaulpur stone work. So, it had all the character of the haveli. It is also a very big haveli. It is difficult to find much bigger havelis than this one in the area. So, all of these factors contributed in finalizing this property. As far as challenges are concerned, there are many. Now days, there are only two types of people residing in havelis. One, who is either financially weak and cannot opt out, or those who have lived there for generations and do not want to leave their ancestral properties. Many of these are also occupied by tenants, who have little concern about the maintenance of the property.
Could you elaborate some challenges of restoration?
Yes. It is a big effort. We needed carpenters capable of working on such wood. Jaalis and Jharokhas needed intricate detailing. Pillars need to be re-structured in the exact same way. Making lime plaster was a tedious process which needed mixing several ingredients. I and my son visited Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Moradabad, Firozabad and Aligarh to find things for this haveli. It took me six years of work. Almost a thousand trucks of debris were removed. It immediately lightened the structure. Earlier, they used to plaster mud to keep the structure air-conditioned. Some pillars were repaired, other out rightly erected all over again.
How many rooms does it have? Tell us
more about the product.
When we purchased the structure, it had sixty rooms. But, after the revamp, there are twenty-three rooms. We did it purposely to make the space more open and light. Not only the haveli, but all the lanes surrounding the property have been made free from hanging wires and fuse-boxes. Interestingly, these are the only four lanes of ChandniChowk that have underground wiring. All the sewers have been repaired; roads leading to the main-road have been improved. We have installed dust-bins to keep the surroundings hygienic. So, it is for the various levels of administration to come and see the power of Chandni Chowk, only if it is restored to its former glory.
How can it be achieved? Is policy a bottleneck?
Look, it is a fact that owners of those properties are not as well-off as their ancestors were. They find it difficult to maintain such sprawling structures. They have little support and government’s policy declares these properties as heritage structures. No alteration in the structure can be undertaken without the consent of the authority. It is shambolic because when the government is lending no support to these people, they should at least allow owners to do what they deem best for their properties. Any change or construction requires numerous clearances, making it difficult to navigate through its meandering lanes. There seems to be a lack of schemes that address these issues.
How has been the response to it so far?
It is being managed by The ITC Group. It is for the first time that a five-star chain has ventured deep into the by-lanes of Old Delhi. The hotel is being frequented by foreign tourists, who seek an authentic old-Delhi experience. Its Restaurant, Lakhori is winning admirers. We have already hosted a meet of female Ambassadors. We hope to host a presidential state visit someday.
A step forward in the right direction
ld Delhi is home to numerous havelis, spread across its Then closely knit and meandering lanes. But these havelis have long lost their sheen. Add to that, successive governments came and went, but choking streets, encroachment and unhygienic surroundings have continued to overshadow and belie the splendour of the historic walled city, which was once seat of the Mughal Empire. Haveli Dharampura was an equally dilapidated structure, when purchased by Vijay Goel. After extensive research, it was established that the haveli was constructed around 1887. It is believed that the haveli was named Dharampura after its proximity to a number of religious structures, both, Jain and Hindu. What makes this
now
three storey haveli special is its proximity to Jama Masjid; it is located within two minutes of walking distance. Once a commercial and residential, 58 rooms, haveli is, now, a tastefully restored property managed by WelcomHeriatge. On offer are thirteen rooms in three categories
– Jharokha room, Diwan-E-Khas room and Shahjahan suite – two restaurants serving Mughlai, Continental and local street food, and a spa. Interestingly, hotel guests are engaged in an age-old Mughal tradition of Patangbaazi and Kabootarbaazi (Kite flying and Pigeon flying). Taking stock of the larger picture, Chandni Chowk has dozens of such havelis, waiting to crumble under their own weight. Looking at the astounding turn-around and growing interest in Haveli Dharampura, a long accepted fact that Old Delhi is a treasure trove that has never really been utilized to its true potential by the larger tourism fraternity is only reinforced. Haveli Dharampura, indeed, is step forward in the right direction.
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MPSTDC rolls out attractive offers, incentives to bolster tourism and infra
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MPSTDC, in a recent presentation, has highlighted plethora of investment opportunities in the state. With capital subsidies, fast-tracking of projects and online approvals, it is making a bid to better wayside amenities on highways, besides at a aiming a serious infusion of new hotels through attractive schemes.
aving ranked sixth in domestic tourist arrival, in the recent years, Madhya Pradesh is one of the most active states, on the national scale, in furthering its tourism products to larger audiences. Home to several religious, historic and wild-life destinations, its tourism potential is accentuated by several strong pegs and constant infusion of new attractions to strengthen footfalls. The state boasts of nine National Parks, five Tiger reserves and 25 sanctuaries. Replete with World heritage sites and other remarkable structures like Ater fort, Jai Villas palace and Rajgarh palace, the
state has diverse bouquet of leisure destinations on offer, too. With Pachmarhi, Bhopal, Shivpuri and Bhedaghat in its repertoire, MP can boast to be a three sixty degree destination. In continuation to its efforts, MPSTDC has recently unveiled a presentation highlighting tourism and infrastructure related investment opportunities in the state.
Adventure based sports, F&B, and different categories of hotels identified as main areas for investment
The state tourism department has especially mentioned Water resorts, water sports, Water Park, way side
amenities, restaurants, ropeways, resorts and hotels – budget, starred, heritage and motels – as key areas for investment and growth. Riding on the back of offerings like class archeological structures with three World Heritage sites, cultural and ethnic diversity, largest forest state – extensive waterscapes, forests and wildlife – and incentives to promote investments in tourism sector Addressing a major concern related to development of adequate
`5 million on capital investment on private land. For hotels and resorts, it ranges from 15 to 25% on capital investment expanding upon investment categories - up to `7.5 million to `15 million. While keeping an eye on MICE tourism, subsidy on capital investment has been increased to 25% which is capped at up to `100 million. One of the major hurdles in attracting investment has been the lack of speedy clearances and an
☛ Keeping an eye on MICE tourism, subsidy on capital investment has been increased to 25% - which is capped at up to `100 million. ☛ State government has made a policy to develop over 200 Wayside amenities to ensure facilities for travellers. skilled manpower, the state has a MP Institute of Hospitality Training, which is patronized by MPSTDC and other training institutions across the state. On the capital subsidy front, Heritage hotels are being provided with 35 percent exemption of capital investment excluding land cost; the maximum cap is pegged at `15 million. In terms of specifics, capital subsidy for Budget Hotels, on Government land, is capped at 10 percent of capital investment and twenty percent with a maximum of
unending maze of paperwork. In order to speed-up clearances for tourism and infra related projects, a direct online link to mpstdc.com has been setup, facilitating direct link to regional manager for coordination and assistance. At a time when state governments’ are, one by one, examining the feasibility of liquor ban, latest causality being Bihar, MP government is offering a fifty percent exemption on license fee to the units given on management contract by MPSTDC.
Infrastructural push with Wayside amenities
Terming Way side amenities as an opportunity for investment, the state government’s policy allows investor to commence WSA on Brown field model where the infrastructure made by MP Tourism and will be given on lease for 30 years to run the facilities. Further, corporation has constructed WSA on National and state highways connecting tourist destinations to provide quality rest, food and amenities to tourists travelling by road. While basic infrastructure such as kitchen, store, restaurant, toilets, wash area, reception and corridor are to be constructed on land owned by the department and these facilities are to be given to private investors to run on management contract for ten years through a transparent bidding process. Investors also have an option of opting for a Green field/franchisee model and land will be given on thirty year lease where they are free to create infrastructure and run the facilities. As per the MPSTDC presentation, Investors are allowed to use MPT branding as designed by the CorporationIn what could substantially improve tourist experience, the state government has made a policy to develop over 200 Wayside amenities to ensure facilities for travellers.
Spotlight on River Nila by tracing its monsoon journey; exploitation threatens survival
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econd mightiest river of the ‘God’s Own Country’ is battling an uphill task for survival after being ravaged by sand-mafia and encroachers for decades. Two localities have brought together photo-journalists from world-over to trace its monsoon movement. The larger aim is to bring conservation in the centre-stage of debate in one of the most ecologically pristine parts of the country. Bharatappuzha (also called the River Nila) stretches from Anaimalai Hills in Westren Ghats to Ponnani in Lakshadweep Sea, and is second only to River Periyar in length. Once oozing with water, Kerala’s mighty Nila resembles a seasonal drain today. Its degradation has been exacerbated by reckless sand mining, large-scale encroachment and deforestation in the last few decades. Seeking to protect the river from complete annihilation, two localities have initiated a conservation drive through a photo-documentation initia-
tive. As the article is being filed, over a dozen travel photographers from across the world are heading to Palakkad to trace the river’s monsoon journey. They would follow the river from its point of inception at the Anamalai hills to its dumping point at Ponnani. The outcome of two week long campaign will be exhibited globally, which would involve roping in a range of people from different walks of life. Opinion-makers, environmentalists, writers, cultural personalities, artisans, artists and performing art experts who have had a link with the river are
expected to be contacted. Gopinath, founder and one of the trustees of the non-profit Nila Foundation and the initiator of responsible tourism movement shared with a leading English daily “It wasn’t even the beginning of summer, there was little water in the river and I had to literally roll over to make sure that my body was wet enough.” Adding that “the journey is a sequel to many initiatives we launched in recent years to protect the river. We are bringing together a larger collective of lovers of the Bharathapuzha. They have one thing in common – the dying river. The river they couldn’t live without; the river they want to share with the next generation,” he said. The significance of rivers in sustaining life and economy needs no elaboration, especially for Kerala. Backwaters form a key element of its larger destination experience. More than tourism, it is an important step towards enhancing the quality of life.
3–6 October, 2016 New Delhi
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Ajay Singh reminisces troubled days, looks ahead as SpiceJet celebrates its 11 years
It was a night of festivity, music and live performances for SpiceJet management as the airline celebrated, with much fervor, its eleventh anniversary. The event saw the participation of civil aviation minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju, secretary civil aviation and other key members of the industry. There was no pretence on Ajay Singh’s part, who very candidly shared how the airline managed to get over a major crisis and took to the skies again. He was congratulated by a well-attended gathering for the remarkable turn-around. While on the policy front, speaking to TF on the sidelines of the event, Ashok Gajapathi Raju shared that the draft policy for civil aviation was in an advanced stage and he expected some positive development shortly.
We are different from the previous government: Gajapathi Raju
It is an anniversary that very nearly did not happen: Ajay Singh
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By shashank
shok Gajapathi Raju, Minister Civil Aviation was all praise for Ajay Singh, when asked about the commendable turn-around of the airline. “They (the airline) have done a marvelous job; you (Ajay Singh) have put it back on its feet.” He, however, was quick to
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hanking the gathering for their presence on the 11th anniversary of, once beleaguered domestic carrier, SpiceJet, Ajay Singh said that it was an anniversary that very nearly did not happen. “There is no way
Leasers wanted their planes back and people wanted their money back; government wanted its taxes and oil companies would not give us fuel, and almost everything was grounded. SpiceJet could have gotten out of the problems that we were in 2014, without the support of the ministry. The airline had pretty much shutdown on 16th of December, 2014. SpiceJet cancelled all its flights. Everything that could possibly go wrong had gone wrong,” he recounted troubled days when the once high-flying company had faced existential crisis. “Leasers wanted their planes back and people wanted their money back; government wanted its taxes and oil companies would not give us fuel, and almost everything was grounded,” he added. Crediting the relentless support of Ashok Gajapathi Raju, Minister, Civil Aviation for making SpiceJet’s revival a reality, he said, “Their support made our revival possible and ensured that SpiceJet did not become another Kingfisher!” He also credited the ministry for its unprecedented levels of transparency in operation and the minister for his round-the-clock availability to help in any issue.
We felt that there needed to be a change from the previous government’s policies that allowed airlines to die out.
highlight that the government was keen to be different than the previous regime. “We felt that there needed to be a change from the previous government’s policies that allowed airlines to die out,” he said. Adding that a policy was sought out to be developed, so that economic activity could happen, he said that a draft policy was put in the public domain. “We got their suggestions and there onwards, we have been developing it. It is an advanced stage now and we think that this policy, which will be unveiled shortly, will be helpful to the larger aviation community and everybody connected with aviation,” said the minister. He also said that it would help them plan their businesses as they would better understand the direction in which the government and policy was moving. “Any policy is not true for all times. So, after a few years it will have to be reviewed,” he said.
Indian aviation can grow at a rate of hundred percent y-o-y: Rajiv Nayan Choubey, secretary, Civil Aviation
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sking the gathering to take a guess at the number of times an average middle-class Indian flew, he, after several wrong attempts from the audience, shared that it was abysmally low at once in five years! “Just imagine. Once in five years. It is one way and not a return journey. It is that poor, where as a middle-class Indian has a disposable income, in purchasing power parity term, is equal to, probably, a typical European family. And, still he flies once in five years. You can just imagine the kind of opportunity that awaits, not only, for SpiceJet but all airlines company,” he stressed. Assuring that the ministry was making gallant strides towards that journey, he shared that the ministry has been trying to make an average Indian fly every time he travels, instead of taking a bus, train or any other mode of conveyance. “We are trying to incorporate all of it in
the new Civil Aviation policy. Hindustan Lever, now UniLever, discovered that the real growth will happen in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. And, that is where the challenge lies for SpiceJet, if you can capture this moment – when the civil aviation sector is going to bring in these cities within its network – by doing even small things, I think you would have won the day,” he noted. “So, while we celebrate today, which is a very well-deserved celebration, remember that there are exciting times ahead for you,” he added. Highlighting that Indian domestic aviation market had witnessed a remarkable 25 percent growth in traffic as compared to a similar period in the previous year, he said: “no other sector in the country has grown at this rate. No other country has grown at this rate in civil aviation.” Contesting that global circumstances
had an equal impact on all nations and their carriers, he pointed out towards the phenomenon of drop in oil-prices. “Aviation sector in all countries have benefitted by it. But none have matched our growth. Our next target should be growing at 100 percent. If we look at the number of people taking to the skies in the last financial year, 2015, to three hundred and fifty million, which is the current population of middle-class Indians, a five-fold increase in numbers in the next five years, it will, roughly, be about hundred percent per year. Such is the potential of the Indian market,” the secretary said. He further added that the ministry was on its way to creating an ecosystem which will make it a reality. Commenting on the success of SpiceJet, he said it was a nimble-footed company and not afraid of operating a multi-configuration fleet. “Not many companies generally do that,” he said.
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CAPA report indicates growing PPP investment in airport infrastructure PPP mode of investment is finding many takers once again, reads the latest CAPA report. Although, airlines are back in black after a long while, thanks to global downfall in oil prices, apart from some key airports, most small-sized airports continue to operate in red. By TF Bureau
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wing to easier availability of finance and gaining popularity of investors in the air-transport infrastructure, because of a longterm cycle attached to it, the phenomena of privatization of airports has gained traction, once again. “Privatization or at the very least their corporatization into independent business units that behave along business lines, has again become fashionable. This follows a dip in transactions and prices during the period of the global financial downturn from 2008-2012,” reads the report. Highlighting that, probably for the first time in several decades, airlines across the world were not caught in a tussle for survival, it reads that “on the other side, many countries are facing low levels of economic growth where infrastructure funding, while vital, is not possible out of the public purse,” further detailing the reason behind the change in trend.
Global markets have their own issues
Cautioning, however, that on a global level, the state of regional and international economy, along with exogenous event were going to continue determining the value of airports, it points towards different markets and bottlenecks therein. It notes that in BRICS nations, all nations apart from India were having issues related to economy and Russian markets have continued to suffer at the hands of economic sanctions by western nations as retaliation to Russia’s maneuvers in Ukraine. “Brazil, which is about to go into its third tranche of airport concessions, and this time probably without the state operator retaining any interest in those airports, is beset by economic, political and health issues,” the report reads. European countries have their own issues at hand with fast changing political landscape. There are concerns about the Great Britain going for a referendum in the coming
months to decide whether or not to continue in the European Union, which could have a cascading effect on the rest of the member nations, eventually influencing the open market for air service with Europe, although it was not really clear on how it would happen, that would remove much of the certainty that industry seek in infrastructure and future business prospects.
Airlines improve balance-sheet, but airports continue in losses
While it is true that passenger volumes have considerably risen in the previous years, but the major conundrum of the airport industry lies in the fact that despite good-showing of several airlines, airport industry is losing money. “One of the biggest problems facing the airport industry is that most airports in the world are small, with high traffic volumes concentrated in only a handful of airports. Therefore, the airport industry faces a conundrum: although the industry - as a whole - appears to be profitable on the aggregate level, with returns on invested capital currently approximately 6.3%, the majority of airports are actually in the red on their financial statements,” the report puts forth. Adding that there was nothing new about this and it had been the case for several years, the report supplements “the only change is that the percentage of airports that are losing money (i.e. making a net loss after capital costs and taxes) declined a little recently, but in ACI’s 2015 Economics Report it was still 69%.”
Privatization moving at a snail pace in India; new policy could bring in some change Taking stock of the state of privatization in
India, CAPA report mentions that efforts related to privatization were put on the backburner after the Modi government came to power. “The Modi government that was elected in 2014 felt unable to proceed with the previous government’s plan to privatize six more airports by PPP concession, opting instead for technical co-operations and not even management contracts, which cannot be concluded without a public tender,” reads the report on how privatization
the new civil aviation policy is announced in the next few weeks,” it reads. To sum up, the report signals towards strong airport financial performance coupled with much improved circumstances (for now) for their airline clients as reasons for are-invigorated interest in airport assets. However, what continues to bog down airport operators is the fact the due to high concentration of airlines on limited number of big airports, many of the smaller airports,
has fared in the aviation industry in India. Stating that the strategy reversal seemed to have been prompted by fears of a hike in airport charges and intense trade union resistance, it notes that the PPP model that would have been used was different from the one adopted for Delhi and Mumbai airports 10 years ago as Airports Authority of India would not have retained any equity stake. “There may some developments when
world-over, are losing money, and it remains one of the key conundrums for industry experts. While India might be going slow at the moment, the report expresses hope that with the launch of the new civil aviation policy, there may be a renewed interest in the subject. The report concludes by stressing that privatization as a medium of involvement will remain imperative to the overall growth of the sector.
Presenting Unique Segments at BITB 2016
Airlines + Airports B2B and Conference
Conclave Anchor
Tourism will thrive on the back of steady growth of airlines and airports, connecting seamlessly with other transport modes. Regional connectivity, national and international – India is one big growth area in the world. Our B2B segment combines with an authoritative conference, bringing world leaders to meet with their Indian counterparts. Conference Highlights: A meeting of minds that can see the ‘Future is Here’ in India. They debate how best to bring about a transformation in infrastructure, ‘Make in India’ in the aviation industry, and bring about an ease in travel. To increase industry efficiency and productivity for the greater good of the Indian traveller, create a roadmap of growth and success. Who will Exhibit: Leading aircraft companies, airports and airlines that are keen to meet with their counterparts, exhibit their latest technology and product profiles.
ITB Comes to India. The best of ‘Glocal’ is here!
Whom will you Meet: Meet with travel agents and online agents, and also those that seek synergy with other stakeholders in the tourism business.
Just exhibit, or also explore partnerships, exclusive to Aviation/ Airports + Airlines Showcase for that extra bit more!
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Air India to better service tertiary cities with ATR aircrafts: Srivastava
Air India to connect Washington by the year-end, says AI commercial director Pankaj Srivastava, Director (Commercial) and Member, Board of Directors, Air India spoke at length with TF on carrier’s strategy of countering private players with attractive schemes and fares. Encouraged by positive response on new international routes, the national carrier may further boost its international connect with flights to Washington in coming months. All this and a lot more in an exclusive interview: By shashank shekhar Air India has signaled its intent of taking on private airlines by recently rolling out a mega sale on the domestic route. Share with the rationale behind this and how has been the response?
Mega-sales like these are rolled out, primarily, to take care of two things: to tackle competition and sell-off unused inventory. Talking purely about the domestic civil aviation, we found out that every airline was coming up with a sale or the other. So, the move is to counter that, on the one hand. On the other hand, we also see that, at least, fifteen to twenty percent of our inventory is left unsold, especially during the lean season –which stretches for many months in India, given the climatic conditions. This twenty percent of the inventory, which we know for sure will remain unsold is to be deployed. We have rolled out scheme whereby travellers can book flight tickets at extremely cheap rates that can be used for up to next three months of travel. It gives enough elbow-room to passengers to plan their trips well in advance. Although, it also true that there are many who rely on last minute bookings. However, in order to capture the market better, we come up with sales like these. It is not unique, as almost every airline has come up with flash sales to boost numbers. But, the response to the sale has been over-whelming, simply amazing.
But fares as low as `699, all inclusive, is surely not making the airline any money?
Each airline has got its own cost structure and economics. All airline pitch their fare according to what suites them the most. I have seen that many of them have predatory pricing mechanism in place. At `699, no one is making profits, which is for sure. So, if we are able to book a certain percentage of our inventory, well in advance, at `1499 that would take care of certain aspects of capac-
New routes and services introduced by Alliance Air in recent months: l Delhi-Bhopal-Delhi
(daily) l Delhi-Gorakhpur-Delhi (6 per week) l Delhi-Jammu-Delhi (3 per week up to 31st July 16) l Bhopal-Jabalpur-Hyderabad and return (4 per week) l Bhopal-Raipur-Pune and return (3 per week) l Hyderabad-Vijayawada-Visakhapatnam and return (5 per week) l Bangalore-Vijayawada and return (5 per week) l Kolkata-Agartala-Kolkata (5 per week) l Mumbai-Gwalior-Mumbai (3 per week) l Mumbai-Surat-Mumbai (3 per week) l Mumbai-Diu-Mumbai (4 per week) l Mumbai-Bhuj-Mumbai (4 per week)
Pankaj Srivastava Director (Commercial) and Member, Board of Directors, Air India
It was felt that tier-2 and tier-3 are not very well connected to each other, or to tier-1 cities. It is largely because of the kind of aircrafts we operate, which do not permit us to fly to those airports. With the focus on creating more connectivity, we started getting more ATR aircrafts; we already have acquired three ATR 72-600 aircrafts. We have connected a number of cities like Vijayawada, Bhilai and Durgapur.
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connecting four major cities. Having said that, we are keen on connecting Washington DC, but I think it will happen sometime later during this year, or by the early 2017. We are awaiting some more resources to join us. It takes a lot of resources, both, in terms of aircraft and crew to operate such a long-haul flight. So, training is under process, both, for pilots and the cabin crew. Also, our commitment to operate Hajj flights during the Hajj season takes away a lot of resource from us. So, possibly, we will look at Washington only once the Hajj season is over.
It will be a great political signal and a commercially profitable route, is not it?
Yes. Connecting two of the world’s largest democracies is something, I believe, everyone is looking forward to. Add to that, there are about two hundred thousand Indians living and working in the USA’s capital. They prefer to take flights from Washington rather than driving down to NY. Major beneficiaries of this omission are gulf carriers.
So, you are likely to eat into their profit once operational? ity. It does not dilute your business because you are going in with a certain percentage being already sold.
How long will this rat race to acquire larger market share continue? How long can airlines doll out tickets at these sums?
It is simply a clash of who is mightier; who can make the other bleed to death. We have seen, in the past, airlines like East-West, Damania, Air Deccan and, most recently, Kingfisher packing up. It all happens in the market, at a time, when there is a surplus of capacity. While operating, airlines sometime lose sight of costs involved and come out with such prices to fill up capacity. But, it is a fact that fares will remain under pressure as more and more capacity is being pumped in. Market share is a function of capacity share.
How are you engaging with agents and consumers? How is Air India working on its outreach?
You must have observed that, over the last six-eight months, Air India has actually stepped up on advertising campaigns. Hardly any week goes by now, when you do not hear about the airline. We are looking at all options, whether it is digital, electronic or print. We work on, both, corporate campaigns and tactical advertising. In terms of perception and visibility in the market, Air India has gained considerable ground in the last few months.
Talk to us about your international offices and stations. Air India has recently unveiled direct connections to Vienna. Media reports suggest that your USA presence might get further strengthened with direct flights between the two capitals. We have, actually, been very ambitious in
our international expansion. In the last three years alone, we have introduced nine new sectors. The journey started with the arrival of Boeing-787 type of aircraft in our fleet – which ideally work for any flying between ten to twelve hours. It gave us market reach to entire Europe, whole of Australia and the Far East. We started our new routes with flights to Birmingham. We followed it up with flights to Rome and Milan in Europe, and Sydney and Melbourne in Australia. We have direct flights to Colombo, Moscow and Vienna.
Which one of these new routes has commercially worked well for you?
With the exception of Moscow, most international routes have been extremely satisfying. Factors like the state of the Russian economy came into play, but the other eight are doing well. It has been little less than two months that we have started the Vienna route and it is being very well received.
What factors do you attribute these phenomena to?
It can be attributed to the outbound, which is growing very rapidly in India. There is a huge upwardly movement of the middle-class youth, who have adequate disposal incomes on their hands. Moreover, Southeast Asia, as a market, has already saturated. Most of the Indians have already seen Singapore and Bangkok. So, the Indian outbound is looking for newer destinations and shortest possible routes to get there. Vienna, actually, fits the bill. It is the gateway to Central, as well as, East Europe. Most of the major destinations are within 250 kilometres by road.
How about the plan to connect Washington DC with New Delhi? Any news on that front?
Well, that is the plan. As is it, we are the biggest operator to the USA at the moment,
Well, we do operate direct flights on international routes and passengers do prefer direct connections. So, we eat into their chunk in any market we operate in.
Looking at the larger picture, domestic airlines are finally making some profit. Domestic numbers are looking up, is not it?
It is true that the overall outlook has improved in the latter half of 2015 and in early 2016. It has much to do with the ATF prices going down, but now we are seeing an upward movement. So, it remains to be seen that how long and how high ATF prices can go. If we are heading back to where we were two years ago, then profitability will surely take a beating.
What is your reading of oil prices? Where do you see it heading and stabilizing at?
I think it will stabilize around fifty dollars to a barrel.
What about new routes in the domestic sector? What are plans for the coming months?
We have introduced a number of new routes. It was felt that tier-2 and tier-3 are not very well connected to each other, or to tier-1 cities. It is largely because of the kind of aircrafts we operate, which do not permit us to fly to those airports. With the focus of creating more connectivity, we started getting more ATR aircrafts; we already have acquired three ATR 72-600 aircrafts. We have connected a number of cities like Vijayawada, Bhilai and Durgapur. We have positioned one ATR in the Northeast which boosts our presence in the region. Another ATR will cover Agatti in Lakshadweep. We have introduced Bhopal-Jabalpur-Hyderabad and return, four times a week, and BhopalRaipur-Pune and return, thrice a week.
ITB Berlin promotes BITB 2016 India’s first mover in B2B travel trade exhibitions has partnered with ITB Berllin for the inaugural edition of Bharat International Tourism Bazaar, to be held in New Delhi from 3-6 October, later this year. Intensive marketing spearheaded by ITB has begun doing the rounds in world media, in print as well as digital. We bring you some highlights
© DZT/Scherf, Dietmar
Welcome to BITB.
India's time has come. Presenting for the first time the big mega show on the region's travel and tourism vertical! Bringing together uniquely India, connectivity, big ticket infra developments, hospitality, global exchange and world connect on culture, holidays and business. At the heart of it, is the resilience, the robust growth, and power of the Indian Traveller! Bringing a sharp focus on traditional heritage and culture tourism, but equally on new emerging streams like MICE, weddings, Luxury, Golf and other sports and events, Technology in Travel, the show will be the first of its kind, powered by the world’s biggest player in the business, ITB Berlin! Strong B2B, alongside s t ro n g e r p a r t n e r ship s t ha t b u i l d conferences and side bar activities, supported by mainstream media in print and television. Each segment will be supported by leading players in their niche from around the world, bringing strong content, buying and selling, and B2B business of ever y kind.
3–6 october, 2016
pragati maidan new delhi
www.bitb.org For more information connect@bitb.org
The Best of ‘Glocal’ is Here! Global player ITB Berlin, the world’s biggest tourism fair, comes together with the most experienced local in India!
ITB Berlin Comes to India
Unparalleled global reach
Announcing a co-branded show with Cross Section Media, the first movers in B2B travel trade shows, the founders of India’s first travel mart, in 1994. The best of ‘Glocal’; we know this business best.
With ITB Berlin, BITB 2016 brings you an outreach to world markets in travel and tourism, unlike any other event in India. It positions Delhi as a growing center for travel and tourism and India as a new focal point for the global industry.
A B2B with a difference
Power of the Indian Traveller
A first time show that brings buyers and sellers for leisure, MICE, online, weddings, events and experiential travel. It is truly tourism under one roof. And together they provide synergy and ripple effect for tourism in the country.
The Indian traveller has proven to be amongst the most resilient and robust globally. BITB is based upon this growing Power of the Indian Traveller, for both domestic and outbound. We present an exclusive showcase of the traditional and new age drivers for Indian tourism and travel.
1,000 hosted buyers assured
India roadshow rolled into one
We have existing and sustained relationships with individual players, trade associations and industry chambers. We are in this space for over 40 years and know the business. We will also have trade visitors giving you an unprecedented buying power of the Indian industry.
Only at BITB 2016, we give you an all India canvas of buyers dealing in leisure, online, MICE, luxury, weddings and experiential travel. A mix of segments that are actually driving the business today. No need anymore for roadshows, going from city to city to meet agents. Save time, effort and money.
We drive new thought processes
Not to be missed
B2B buying and selling is critical. Equally important is sharing of ideas bringing top industry leadership onto one table. Six conclaves in 2 days. Each driven by its respective internatioal market leader. BITB is industry driven, from the top down.
About the Organizers
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Cross Section Media is over 40 years in the business, having a number of firsts in India’s history. It was the first mover in B2B trade shows in tourism in India, way back in 1994. Our partnerships endured over the years we ran the event – all these enabled us to host over 4,500 international tour operators from over 50 countries during our 18-year tenure! In 2011, the last year when we exited this event, we were steadfastly tourism focused, growing 25% year on year, presenting 30 countries from around the world, 23 Indian states and some 650 sellers organizations. We have been the first movers in trade journalism, with magazine titles such as destination India, Travel Trends Today, Go Now and presently, Tourism First. We have run successful industry seminars and have been awarded by both industry associations as well as the Government of India.
The design, visitor flow, standard booths will have an international look and feel. A seamless experience awaits buyers and sellers at BITB 2016. Each element is professionally driven, ensuring ease of doing business.
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International look and feel
We know budgets are always stretched, longer lead time is desirable, there are pressures all around and between these are opportunities, some that cannot be missed out! BITB 2016 is one such window for new business creation.
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TN needs a larger vision; ban on alcohol will impact revenue, say industry insiders As CM Jayalalitha takes over the reins of TN one more time, hotel industry is hoping for a fresh impetus on travel, tourism and hospitality in the state. Some key areas of concern remain lack of adequate skilled manpower, obtaining clearances and sky-rocketing real-estate prices. They also expressed concern on lack of sustainable tourism measures and toying with the idea of going dry – which could hit Chennai’s standing as a cosmopolitan city. hotels faced similar problems rate on possible and like those in other countries and immediate initiatives, it needed to be addressed with he highlighted the more robust confidence-building need for sustainTamil Nadu, measures in place. “The policies able development traditionally, has initiatives stating “our and initiatives to promote the sector been overtly hill-stations are being often falter at the implementation pro-poor; the stage. Multiple agencies involved in ravaged, and are government is granting clearances make securing losing their pristine living in past glory. the required clearances for a project ecological balance. State government a long and cumbersome process. Western Ghats is aside, the central The need for single-window clearbeing threatened by government ance in infrastructure projects is over-exploitation. must also look stronger than ever. This will reduce Munnar, famed for at tourism in the time taken for obtaining clearits tea plantation, is southern states ance and remove ambiguities on fast losing its charm. with renewed the status of infrastructure projects,” So there are several interest. the GM said. pressing issues that Our hill-stations Noting that the cost of acquiring need immediate atare being ravaged land for hospitality projects was and are losing their tention.” exorbitant and was fraught with a Dismayed by lack pristine ecological high chance of litigation, the GM of efforts on the part balance. Western of the government, he batted for moderation in real-estate Ghats is being said “if we can simply prices. “The government should threatened by also take steps to moderate real esstop this ongoing over-exploitation. destruction, instead of looking for solutions, it will be a major that TN seems eager to join. contribution to the cause of Steve Borgia, CMD, InDeco tourism.” Hotels alleges that tourism never While commenting on figured in the list of priorities for Tathe current state of hospitalmil Nadu government, irrespective ity in TN, Daniel Chao, GM of their political affiliation. Calling Novotel-Ibis hotels Chenthe last five years catastrophic for nai OMR and GM Delegate tourism and hospitality, he said “it AccorHotels said that hoshas really been as bad as it gets. pitality sector in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, traditionally, has been overtly pro-poor; the government is and Tamil Nadu as a whole, was facing a new phase of living in past glory. State government aside, the central government growth. “Over the past few years, several domestic and must also look at tourism in southinternational hospitality ern states with renewed interest.” groups have entered the city and existing groups have expanded their presence across all segments, from budget to luxury,” he said. He added that with the development of the Chennai Bengaluru Referring to the absence of Daniel Chao Industrial Corridor, ChenGM Novotel-Ibis hotels Chennai OMR, robust policy and guidelines, he GM Delegate AccorHotels nai had turned into a said that while the world was major upcoming commercial talking about sustainable tourism A major part of the revenue for such destination. “The region is development, central and state establishments comes from alcohol expected to see some major governments’ in India was yet to sales. Interestingly, with revenue from planned commercial and begin talking about tourism develliquor amounting to over 20 percent industrial development in the opment. “The eco-tourism society of the state’s own tax revenue, a total has recently inked a MoU with MoT. long run,” he said. prohibition may not be viable for the Sharing his understanding We hope to carry this initiative forgovernment either. ward to several state governments,” on current challenges faced by the hospitality industry noted Steve Borgia. in the state, he argued that When asked to further elaboSteve Borgia CMD, InDeco Hotels
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By Shashank Shekhar
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our key states of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal and Assam, representing a substantial chunk of India’s population, went into polls a couple of weeks ago. As the dust settles on bitterly contested elections and the cacophony of election gives way to new governments’ taking centre-stage one more time, industry stakeholders’ are hopeful for a fresh impetus for tourism in these states.
☛ Single-window clearance in infrastructure projects and robust policy framework are need of the hour. As we engaged with industry insiders to understand key bottlenecks in furthering the cause of tourism and hospitality in Tamil Nadu, some of the important concerns that propped up were related to the need for re-looking at tourism as an industry and faster clearances to ensure timely implementation of projects. Another major concern for hospitality industry has been the ongoing discourse on banning alcohol – a bandwagon
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Presenting Unique Segments at BITB 2016
hotels + resorts B2B and Conference
Conclave Anchor
tate prices and thus help to create the necessary infrastructure for the hospitality sector to achieve high growth,” he said. Besides, availability of skilled manpower continued to be a challenge for the sector countrywide, he felt. “The government must take steps to address this, adopting the PPP model where we can impart training to the manpower and improve the quality of their skill sets is the way forward,” GM said. Suggesting a way forward for the larger tourism industry, Steve Borgia mooted joint efforts from diverse industry stakeholders, noting that “a region specific plan must be devised, keeping in mind the nature of peculiar challenges faced by each of these regions.” He urged the government to go a step beyond brainstorming matters like policy and guidelines, and work on developing tourism which was sustainable and local in nature. All of these issues aside, the hospitality industry is, also, grappling with a lurking fear that alcohol might be banned in the coastal state. After Kerala and Bihar, Tamil Nadu could become the next victim of populist poll promises. Daniel Chao noted that while it was too soon to comment on the enforcement of prohibition in the state, it was definitely going to impact the hospitality sector as well F&B establishments in Tamil Nadu, especially Chennai. “A major part of the revenue for such establishments comes from alcohol sales. Interestingly, with revenue from liquor amounting to over 20 percent of the state’s own tax revenue, a total prohibition may not be viable for the government either. We hope that the government can regulate the law for the sale of alcohol, instead of totally shutting it down, which could result in Chennai losing its standing among other cosmopolitan cities in the country,” he argued.
The first need for any traveller, where ever he goes, is to find the right accommodation. Hotels are an essential constituent in travel, at different price points. In city hotels, resorts, and tier 2 and tier 3 cities across India, hotel building is witnessing an unprecedented growth. Branded business is fast catching up – over 50 brands are competing already. Who will Exhibit: Branded chains, stand alone hotels in different categories and different areas of the business, MICE venues, wedding venues, city business hotels, resorts in far flung exotic locations. Chains that have arrived in India and those yet not, equally find relevance. Leading vendors for the industry find equal prominence, as they position themselves meaningfully as partners in the business.
Photo courtesy: Lotus Greens
ITB Comes to India. The best of ‘Glocal’ is here!
Whom will you Meet: A strong B2B means finding your partners in technology, online space and also traditional travel agents and tour operators. Meet with new age aggregators and drivers of the business. Meet also franchise developers, brand managers and find out what is trending in the business.
Just exhibit, or also explore partnerships, exclusive to Hospitality/ Hotels + Resorts Showcase for that extra bit more!
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Brigade Hospitality to strengthen foothold in the IT city with focus on niche segments Bengaluru, a long established nerve-centre for services based businesses for India, is grappling with the shortage of world-class convention centres, feels Gurmeet Singh, the GM for CCEL – a venture of Brigade Hospitality Services. He adds that while the Indian economy has demonstrated green shoots, global challenges and political upheavals in the larger Asian continent will continue to impact corporate footfalls. By Shashank Shekhar Share with us some key trends in MICE and wedding segments. How are they shaping up in Bangalore?
Four must follow key trends in MICE market are: 1. QR Codes for quick downloads of Vcards, checking in at a special event. 2. Event Apps: get conference attendees to interact through exclusive apps where content agenda and bonus materials can be shared prior to, during and after an event. 3. Video Conferencing: live streaming opportunities, where an event can be broadcasted to a wider audience. 4. 360 Content Recording: Live content recording can take place; the trend is to add to the experience through virtual reality. Being the IT capital, Bangalore has the advantage of availing advanced technology and ultramodern facilities clubbed with natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality. It offers unique conference destinations with world class accommodation facilities and conference support facilities in place. The addition of new centers of information technology, convention centers, hotels and improved surface transportation makes it an attractive for MICE tourism. Wedding trends are getting back
currently the main key sources for inflow to Bangalore. Developing historical circuits and Buddhist circuits will help increase the inflow of tourists from the Asian market for MICE. The major industries making use of the convention and conference facilities in India are the automobile, IT, pharmaceutical and Medical tourism. Hyderabad still tops the list followed by Bangalore and Chennai in South India. MICE in Bangalore is picking up and the future certainly looks bright with BIEC winning the Excellence in Services award. It also bagged the best award for its flagship event IMTEX in the categories of Top Exhibitor Value, Top Global Dominance and the first runnerup in the Royal Show category.
to more traditional styles with ethnic décor and of course the famous big fat Indian weddings are all-time hot favourites. Food takes the center stage with a whole lot of live counters and multiple cuisine options including the regional cuisine.
Has there been a profound change in inflow, in the past year, given India’s enhanced engagement with the larger world, and visibility of green shoots in the economy?
A recent survey by Fast Future Research has shown that the industry has to strategize and reinvent itself to face new challenges. The future will be influenced by the following major factors like economic uncertainty in India, technological options for live events, and political and economical influence of Asia. Green shoots have been seen, however Global economic conditions will remain a major strain on the Indian economy and MICE tourism.
What are some key source markets for Bangalore? How does the city fare in comparison to other major
Gurmeet Singh GM for CCEL – a venture of Brigade Hospitality Services
There is a huge potential in the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) industry. However inadequate infrastructure within the city and low availability of world-class convention centers are big hurdles.
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south Indian cities like Chennai and Trivandrum? The North American and the European tourism markets are
What are some bottlenecks in improving MICE footfalls into Bangalore? Are there some low hanging fruits? What are some immediate steps that, you believe, can better the scope of business for the larger industry?
There is a huge potential in the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) industry. However inadequate infrastructure within the city and low availability of world-class convention centres are big hurdles. Also, the MICE sector has not been
promoted in a desired way within the country. If given necessary focus it can boost the tourism sector in India.
Give us a little insight into your own company. How are you planning on expanding your reach in the coming months?
Our existing properties are all across the city from MLR Convention Center and Woodrose Club in JP Nagar, MLR Convention Center and Regent Club in Whitefiled to Galaxy Club in Malleswaram. The North Bangalore market is growing at a fast pace with the airport being there and we are tapping into this market for MICE. We have our latest banqueting venue The Northern Terrace in Malleswaram, and the soon to open Signature Club Resort is next to the airport - apt for both social and MICE business. Our properties are hence strategically located to cater to each business pocket of the city. Also the wedding planners’ cult is growing in India with many dominant Indian communities opting for their preferred wedding planners. We are targeting these big wedding planners across India to tap the big fat Indian Wedding segment.
Sarovar’s Dehradun property boosts city’s banqueting and conferencing Sarovar Hotels has recently announced the launch of Seyfert Sarovar Portico, Dehradun, continuing its aggressive streak of new openings in maturing destinations. The contemporary and upscale hotel was inaugurated by CM Uttarakhand Harish Rawat in the presence of Ajay K. Bakaya, ED, Sarovar Hotels.
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peaking on the occasion, CM Rawat, said, “I am very glad to inaugurate this hotel that brings a new level of hospitality services to our city. Dehradun is the gateway to numerous pilgrimage and tourist destinations in the upper and lower Himalayas, and I believe this hotel will be immensely beneficial to people travelling through this route as well as to the locals here with the excellent F&B and banquet services on offer.” While commenting on the launch, Ajay K. Bakaya, ED, Sarovar Hotels said, “We are
glad to be expanding our presence to yet another popular destination in Uttarakhand. With our immense focus on providing quality accommodation and services at the best rates, we hope to ensure a pleasant stay for all our guests travelling to this region. The hotel brings to the city exceptional facilities and houses the largest banquet in the city in terms of capacity and size covering 10000 square feet.” The hotel features 68 rooms, offers latest business and conferencing facilities, in-room
dining, fitness centre, swimming pool, and all day dining multi-cuisine restaurant. “Ours is the city’s first top-end branded hotel, which provides modern facilities to the discerning corporate traveller,” says Rahul Saxena, General Manager, Seyfert Sarovar Portico. Adding that the USP of the hotel lied in its sprawling 10,000 sq. ft. convention space,
accommodating around a thousand people, he said “twenty-five ft. high ceiling lends the hall a sense of grandeur. Besides, we have a pool-side lawn with over 23,000 sq. ft. of space, which allows us to cater to over 4,000 people at a go.”
Presenting Unique Segments at BITB 2016
online travel B2B and Conference
Conclave Anchor Technology is fast catching up, online is going to occupy even more rights in the distribution business. These come together and share their products and services. We also provide a learning curve for destination marketing, and the value of research. Our conference platform is created by a leading global player – come and share their findings, learn the trends in the game. Who will Exhibit: Online players from India and abroad, GDS, market aggregators, specialised sites for niche tourism.
Photo courtesy: www.reconanceco.com
ITB Comes to India. The best of ‘Glocal’ is here!
Whom will you Meet: Fraternity members, your clients across sectors such as airlines, hotels, brick and mortar agents, governments in India and overseas.
Just exhibit, or also explore partnerships, exclusive to Online + Technology Showcase for that extra bit more!
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Ginger Hotels will add 15-20 properties each year in key cities: Nikhil Sharma, COO A new breed of travellers, who demand more options at very competitive pricing will continue to drive the mid-segment, says Nikhil Sharma. As the govt. moves towards implementing some of its key programs, it will aid to increased travel and, consequent, tourism, he adds. An excerpt of the interview on company’s growth, larger trends in the mid-segment space and more: By Shashank Shekhar Tell us a little about Ginger Hotels and its positioning? How is the business coming up in the mid-segment? How has been the average occupancy rate, off late?
Ginger Hotels is value-for-money hotel chain in the economy segment and a forerunner in this space. Over past few years we have noticed a sharp rise in the economy hotel/mid-market segments. Mid-market segments have emerged as the most preferred investment categories in India. Since it started 13 years back, Ginger has built a portfolio of 34 hotels through Greenfield developments, management contracts and leases. Going forward, the brand will grow asset-light with a focus on leisure destinations as well as existing metro markets. Our facilities are meticulously designed as per customers’ comfort and convenience. We aim to deliver consistently, quality services to the customers and manage customer expectations. According to a report by a hotel consultancy firm, HVS, mid-market and budget hotels together form around 65% of the proposed branded hotel rooms between 2014-15 and 2019-20. At the
group level, we have witnessed occupancy levels over 75% for the last year. Average rates in leisure locations have seen an upswing of 20% with increased awareness in this segment. In Business locations, we have seen similar growth in metros and 15% growth in Tier I and Tier II cities – where we are present.
In terms of pure revenue generation, which of your properties lead your market foray?
Our hotels in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara, Noida, Bhubaneswar, Trivandrum, Indore, Mangalore, Mysore, Goa, Pondicherry and Pune, along with our hotels in pilgrim locations like Katra and Tirupati, have also witnessed encouraging momentum from travellers.
What are some key trends in the mid-segment business travel space? How do you see them evolving in the coming months
The mid-segment business travel space has observed a transition in last few years. Business travellers look at ease of stay with ‘no-frills’, however, they want state-of-theart technology at their disposal to
work while staying in a hotel. We have seen that the mid-segment travellers are frequently turning their business trips into ‘leisure’ vacations – extending work trips to unwind with family or friends, better yet, just explore the location. Consumer awareness and demand has led hotels to provide services that are personalized and gives the consumer more options for less money. Travel will increase amongst all demographics, however, ‘money-conscious’ travelling will remain a big part of this burgeoning travel industry. Also, India has seen a phenomenal increase in internal tourism, as the Gen-X travellers set in the current trends in the country. If seen in hindsight, this is an effect of growing mid-segments in hospitality industry.
and services sectors by these programmes. Ginger Hotels being present in key locations across the country with right mix of this portfolio, believe that in the coming days there will be more activity from policy to implementation towards achieving these goals and thus, aid in increasing demand. In the case of SMART CITIES projects, there was similar travel flow witnessed, though confined to a very small number of locations in the current stage.
Are you planning on expansion? How many properties are you operating currently? What makes you choose a particular city for your hotel?
Nikhil Sharma COO, Ginger Hotels
We are currently operating 36 properties and 20 properties under construction at various stages. We are looking at adding 15 to 20 properties every year. Being a data driven company, we have a heat map of 70 cities where we intend to expand in the next few years.
Do you think that government initiatives like ‘Make in India’ and ‘Digital India’ have started
Qatar’s Al Sawari comes to Agra, signs MoU with the Leela group Qatar's Al Sawari has inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) and two management agreements to launch itself in the Indian market. The signing of MoU coincided with the PM’s visit to the Qatari soil.
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n a landmark agreement between Qatar based Al Sawari Group and the Leela Group of Hotels, the Qatari enterprise will purchase a sixacre site from The Leela Group in Agra to develop a hotel complex. The site is in a kilometer’s distance from the Taj Mahal. The agreement also entails a management agreement between the Qatari firm and The Leela Group to operate a 100-room Leela Palace Hotel on this site. The first MoU was signed by H.E. Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani, chairman of Al Sawari Holding and Vivek Nair, chairman and managing director, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts. “Qatar has a long history of bilateral relations with India and there is a lot of synergy between the two cultures. We are delighted to enter into these landmark agreements with The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts and Aiana Hotels and
Resorts during the historic visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Qatar. We are confident that Al Sawari Holding’s foray into the Indian hospitality industry will further enhance the economic and culture relations between the two countries,” said H.E. Al Thani. While Vivek Nair, commenting on the development, noted that “We are delighted to partner with Al Sawari Holdings, and view this agreement as a forerunner to several other developments in India and overseas. The proposed
Palace hotel will combine unparalleled views of the Taj Mahal with a truly luxurious hospitality experience in Agra. We are also looking forward to further strengthening our presence within the golden triangle by adding a Palace hotel in Jaipur and will continue our efforts to expand in Jodhpur and Jaisalmer.” Another management agreement has been signed with Aiana Hotels and Resorts to operate a 150-room Aiana Hotel on the same plot. Both new hotels will l offer a host of signature restaurants and lounges along with spacious banquet halls and health centres and spas. Both hotels will aim at upmarket leisure tourists and the MICE segment. The hotel is expected to be constructed within 36 months.
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showing some impact on the ground – vis-à-vis corporate travel?
Govt. initiatives have certainly increased focus on manufacturing
Yes, Ginger hotels will be aggressively expanding besides Green Field and brown field, we are re-badging hotels, our success in multiple locations gives us the confidence to incorporate this into our existing framework. In terms of spread, we would be looking at being present in key gateway cities to the new age India on business and leisure front. We are currently operating 36 properties and 20 properties under construction at various stages. We are looking at adding 15 to 20 properties every year. Being a data driven company, we have a heat map of 70 cities where we intend to expand in the next few years.
Aimed at growing Japanese inbound, Golden Tulip Hotels to launch its first service apartment facility in Bhiwadi In a clear sign of growing tourism connect between India and Japan, sixteen service apartments, aimed at catering to a growing number of Japanese inbound who find luxurious hotels heavier on their pockets during the course of their stay, is being offered by Golden Tulip Hotel in Bhiwadi – a hub of Japanese industry in India. A valuable addition on the hospitality front on the famed ‘Golden Triangle’ route, on a little detour, the hotel offers live Tapanyaki grill and host of other Japanese delicacies. Commenting on the launch of the service apartments, Vimal Singh, MD, Golden Tulip Hotels South Asia said, “With the launch of these service apartments we are hoping a warm appreciation and welcome in the industry. We choice Golden Tulip Hotel, Bhiwadi as it is located in an integrated industrial township with Neemrana and Khushkhera. Bhiwadi as a region has seen a lot of inflow of the Japanese expats hence, the property also has a restaurant with a speciality of Japanese cuisine which makes it an exception.” An all-day dining ‘Melange’, Japanese cuisines at ‘Tsuru’ with an indoor and outdoor setting overlooking the pool lawns, serving authentic Japanese delicacies from by Japanese trained chefs and ‘Liquid’ the bar and lounge add plenty of F&B prowess to the property.
hote ls + re sorts
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Sensible, Sustainable, Superlative: The Fern tourism product T
param kannampilly An interview with Param Kannampilly, Chairman and MD of CONCEPT HOSPITALITY – who conduct, manage and operate The Fern Hotels and Resorts -one of India’s foremost and fastest growing eco-centric hospitality chains. Param Kannampilly has been one of the country’s most dynamic and successful hospitality management heads who has consistently spearheaded and created the need-of-thehour environmentally sensitive core credo driving hospitality excellence to world standards. By KISHORE AND SMITA IYENGAR ‘The Fern’ and your other brands of unique hotels have rapidly become synonymous with environmentally sensitive hospitality excellence in India. What sets it apart from the burgeoning hotel properties across the country?
We differentiate ourselves as a Leading Environmentally Sensitive Hotel Chain in India, which means our efforts are towards minimizing the impact on the environment by the various eco-sensitive initiatives that we undertake and put into practice at the various hotels we manage and operate. A testimony to this fact lies in the recognition received from various quarters viz., the tourism fraternity, NGO’s, Government etc. by way of awards which total 35 as of date and still counting.
How do you foster and fortify sustainable and holistic tourism through the ecofriendly credo of your hotel and resort properties?
Our associates selected are persons who have a concern for the environment and they are trained, tested and monitored during their course of their employment with us. These associates of ours do converse with our guests and share with them the various environmentally sensitive initiatives that we practice. We also do community outreach programs wherein we educate youngsters during their school trips to our hotels and are in continuous touch with the community around, in order to make them
environmentally conscious – on their way of life. We also propagate and help in implementing the ALM Programs around the hotels we operate (Advanced Locality Management) – so that the entire community around is involved with reducing the impact on the environment by educating them on solid waste management, garbage segregation, vermicomposting, rain water harvesting, etc. Our guests have quite a few touch points where they participate in the environment programs and activities and we do find that many of our guests are inclined to press our energy saving button, join in the Earth Hour programs and other initiatives.
You conduct, operate and manage your four and five star hotels and resorts in many tourism destinations like Sasan Gir, Amritsar, Ganpatipule, Ajmer, Agra and Jodhpur, to name a few. How do you set the high bar on expectation and anticipation for visitors to these niche destinations? We are a pure management Company and do not own any of the hotels we operate. The philosophy of the Fern Group of Hotels & Resorts is that our service standards, quality of food and guest amenities remain consistently right through the group. In order to ensure that guest services and cuisine remain consistent, we ensure that every unit operated by us – create standard operating procedures (SOP’s) that are implemented and associates are trained to follow and
he Fern Hotels and Resorts is one of India’s fastest, most dynamic hospitality chains that stands distinctly apart for its committed eco-friendly and environmentally sensitive practices and core values. The group conducts, operates and manages The Fern Hotels and Resorts across the Indian sub-continent and has developed dynamic strategies to help hoteliers and entrepreneurs leverage the value of their investments which has yielded rich dividends. Increasingly, more and more travellers choose to patronize their group of environmentally friendly hotels which stand out for their sustainable and responsible hospitality and tourism boosting practices. Environmentally sensitive travellers constitute the fastest growing segment today. Each of The Fern Hotels and Resorts packs in cutting edge ecofriendly features, state-of-the art technology, energy and environment saving and sustaining initiatives that bring in the necessary controls and measures in ensuring holistic hospitality in its very essence.
implement these SOP's. We have regular inspections and mystery audits to ensure that the quality of guest experience is just WOW – that of the highest order and the guest returns back for that WOW experience.
Hospitality and tourism go hand-in-hand for each others’ success. How remarkably different are your environmentally sensitive practices as compared to the rapidly increasing competition?
Our approach to implementing our environmental philosophy takes into consideration the following: Project team, our associates, guests and the community, in and around. We are happy that many hoteliers are embracing environmentally sensitive practices thus helping in reducing the impact of our industry on the environment. However, we as a group ensure that we have all the four aspects mentioned above involved at every stage and hence we stand out – well apart from the others in the process.
With increasing state-of-theart, high tech applications and management practices, what degree of the human awareness factor on issues and concepts contribute to boosting tourism through responsible hospitality?
We use excellent technology to ensure that in the course of business, minimum energy is being consumed in our guest rooms and public areas. However, once the guest checks in, he can conserve
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he Fern Hotels & Resorts has been a consistent winner from inception and has won over 40 awards till date, an enviable and inspiringly successful achievement.
Awards received up to 2015-16 l Meluha The Fern, Mumbai National Tourism Award for the Best Five Star Hotel 2013-14 given by the President of India in New Delhi l Meluha The Fern, Mumbai Most Preferred Business hotel at 11th Hospitality India and Explore the World Annual International Awards at Ashok Hotel Convention Hall New Delhi or waste resources. Hence it is here that we make the difference - we make him/her aware of the same, which is important in conserving these resources.
With guest / tourist demands getting more specific and focused, what are the challenges you envisage for the hospitality industry vis-à-vis the essential tourism context? It is said that “luxury is the absence of inconvenience” and today's
l Punish B. Sharma (Area GM – Meluha The Fern Mumbai) has been awarded as the most influential Leader in Service and Hospitality Industry by Stars of the Industry Group – 28th February 2016 at Taj Lands End. Operational hotels cover locations in Amritsar, Asansol, Agra, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Bhimtal, Chandigarh, Dapoli - Maharashtra, Gurgaon, SasanGir - Gujarat, Ganpatipule - Maharashtra, Kolkata, Pune, Jodhpur, Kochi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Tezpur, Somnath, Vadodara and Rajkot Upcoming Hotels in 2016 are The Fern, Bhavnagar and The Fern Residency, Udaipur.
guests are looking for convenience/ ease of transacting/for undertaking travel, sightseeing, shopping or hotel stays. We as a group ensure that we are updated and equipped with the latest technology so that our guests/business associates find it easy to transact and deal with us. Nevertheless, we do stress on the human element at every guest contact area, as personalized service also remains at the forefront – our Industry being service oriented.
countrie s + outbound
20
‘Joy of life’, Mediterranean offerings makes Greece an ideal Indian outbound, says envoy His Excellency Panos Kalogeropoulos, Ambassador of Greece believes that his nation’s offerings like ‘joy of life’, cuisines, culture and Mediterranean bounties have plenty in them to attract the discerning Indian outbound. In a maiden outreach, he hoped to leverage on the fact that Greece had yet remained unexplored for a vast majority of Indians. Excerpts of a detailed interaction: By Shashank Shekhar
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often meet people who tell me that they have been to Greece and it is a lovely county. But, it is still a drop in the ocean when you look at Indian outbound from here,” said the Ambassador. It is true that Greece has been a part of the Indian subconscience since Alexander the Great’s daring march – some twenty four hundred years ago – to the borders of then Punjab. There is a direct or indirect reference to it in our daily conversation, in our folk-lore and collective history. But, all of these linkages, sadly, have not contributed to bilateral footfalls. Also, Indian travellers have found resonance, more, with Britain, France, Italy and Spain, off late. Greek economy, too, has not been at its best. Commenting on the situation, the Ambassador said that the key was to infuse a sense of confidence in real economic activities. “Greece has finally averted Grexit. Nobody talks about that anymore. I would stress that a sense of confidence in the economy would help,” he said. Informing that Greece catered to over twenty five million visitors in 2015, he said that economy generated from tourism accounted for over eighteen billion Euros. “We received over two million visitors only from Russia in 2015,” he added. In comparison, outbound from India (including from abroad) constituted to .02 percent of the total Greek inbound in 2015. Noting that he intended to address this issue, he said that Greece would want more young Indians to come visit it as a destination, maybe, together with more traditional destinations like France, United Kingdom and Italy, or separately. “Greece offers a unique combination of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage; it is not always the case. Moreover, na-
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☛ Contrary to popular belief, Greece offers plenty of vegetarian cuisines and Indian restaurants. ☛ In 2015, Greece welcomed 25 million tourists. Beaches, nature and nightlife remain some key reasons for its attraction. ture, to a very large extent, is unspoilt. Our beaches are among the cleanest in the entire Mediterranean. The climate Greece enjoys is unrivalled; perhaps, three hundred days of sunshine, clear blue skies and clean atmosphere,” detailed the top envoy. Stressing on facets like rich cultural heritage, he added that the recall value remained intact on ancient times and days of Alexander the great. “Their presence echoes everywhere. But, there are also a number of monuments and churches from the middle ages and Byzantine Empire days. These intermingle beautiful with the modern Greece – days after independence in 1821,” he elaborated.
the opposite direction,” he added on a lighter note. Responding to the idea of deeper foray into Indian market with a representative office, he said that it was great suggestion and would take away much of the responsibility of promotion from his shoulders. However, in a sincere admission, he informed that with the current state of public finance in Greece, he did not see the room for opening a separate and autonomous tourism organization. Sighting examples of once operational offices of Air-France, Lufthansa, Air Kuwait and Air Delta, he said “these brick-and-mortar representation offices, like the ones of air companies, fade away. It was different twenty-thirty Greece offers a years ago. As a matter unique combination of fact, it is no more imof natural beauty and portant in the age of rich cultural heritage. internet.” Moreover, nature, to a very large extent, is Greece tourism had unspoilt. Our beaches focused on internet audiare among the ence – which is a key part cleanest in the entire of their campaign. ElaboMediterranean. rating, the Ambassador Vibrant nightlife is said, “It is for the first time something that young Indians will take to, we have tried that in India; and it is one of the we have come up with a things that we want to video, on facets of Greece tell our audiences. tourism, on YouTube. It is an interesting experiment which should succeed.” He banked his confidence on high number of internet users and penetration of internet deep into India’s smaller towns and hamlets. “It is, especially, an advanced country, concerning the use of internet. Also, Indians have a special ability of being able to think in terms of new technologies,” said the seasoned diplomat. In a bid to improve ease of travel, the embassy had launched a campaign, two years ago, to ensure tourist visa within forty-eight hours of application. “We work very hard to stay faithful to that commitment. I think visa issue comes up only in cases when we have to, during peak seasons, process hundreds of visa application. We try to process as many as humanly possible,” he commented. Hoping the interaction would give rise to more activities and engagements, not only in Delhi, but elsewhere, too, the Ambassador added that once number improved, he would, also, look into the issue of direct air-connectivity. “I understand that it is an issue. But, numbers have to be substantial enough to make commercially flying viable,” he argued.
He called landscape, culture’, joy of life’ and vibrant nightlife USPs that Greece enjoyed. “Vibrant nightlife is something that young Indians will take to, and it is one of the things that we want to tell our audiences,” he noted. On the question of areas that he believed could lead to larger bilateral cooperation between two countries, resulting in pronounced movement of people and services, he outlined “we try to engage in areas of economy and scientific exchanges. It is our endeavour, but it goes for both nations. It must find echo on the Indian side.” “So, we invite Indians to come to Greece by the same route Alexander took two thousand five hundred years ago, only in
Realistic change of direct air-connectivity when substantial tourist influx is achieved
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y the end of July, Greece is gearing up to host a major congregation hosted by Indian spiritual guru, Bapu Morari. It is expected to be attended by over twelve hundred people. “It is a spiritual gathering and a large number of people are expected to attend,” the Ambassador shared. Informing that the event would span for a week, he highlighted the possibilities of such events in increasing footfalls into Greece, he said “we have mobilized all resources through our various consulates. Besides, we have also been in touch with the Indian embassy.”
Further substantiating, he added that the reason why Greece was chosen for this congregation was because of it being a vast repository of culture and heritage, which had a similarity to the Indian culture. “I concur with the decision to hold the event in Greece. Our teachings coincide with Hindu mysticism and school of thought,” he said, drawing a parallel between Indian and Greek philosophy and ideals. Spiritual and philosophical concurrence aside, Greece happens to host the world’s largest fair on shipping, held bi-annually. The Am-
I am aware that Indians, as travellers, are considered very sensitive about their food preferences. But, this notion of Mediterranean cuisines being heavy and predominantly non-vegetarian needs to be addresses. It is based, largely, on vegetables and Olive oil; it is very healthy and advocated by, even, cardiologists.
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bassador, on the question of larger areas of bilateral connect, he said “Posidonia, the fair, is attended by
many countries around the world. Now that India has recently held a Maritime Summit in Mumbai, it presents with itself opportunities of collaborations,” said the envoy. Taking the opportunity to dispel a long prevalent notion that Mediterranean cuisines had very little to offer to a large majority of vegetarian food preferring Indians, the Ambassador was quick to add that “I am aware that Indians, as travellers, are considered very sensitive about their food preferences. But, this notion of Mediterranean cuisines being heavy and predominantly non-vegetarian needs to be
addresses. It is based, largely, on vegetables and Olive oil; it is very healthy and advocated by, even, cardiologists.” The Ambassador noted that the Greek way of life was aptly suited for Indians. However, a major lacuna in the attempt to boost exchange remained the lack of direct air-connectivity. Currently, Athens and other Greek cities are serviced through middle-eastern hubs. It also remains a fact that realistic air-connectivity stems out of acquiring adequate load-factors for airlines. Once, Greece manages to capture the attention of Indian outbound, which it should, as its offerings are unique compared to other continental European nations, there is a realistic possibility of direct connection between two ancient nations, we were told.
countrie s + outbound
21
Mandarin Oriental offers ‘electrifying Prague’ to help visitors re-connect with the city
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andarin Oriental, Prague and BMW, in tandem, are offering guests an opportunity to recharge and reconnect in the city of a hundred spires. With luxurious accommodation in Prague’s most stylish and environmentally responsible hotel, the two-night Electrifying Prague package provides guests with an opportunity to explore the city and surrounding countryside with complimentary use of a
BMW i3, the all-electric car. Guests who book the Electrifying Prague package are welcomed at Prague’s Václav Havel airport and chauffeur-driven to the hotel in a BMW X5 hybrid. On arrival at the hotel, guests are given keys to their Deluxe Terrace Room, which has a private terrace and direct access to the hotel’s gardens that date back to the days when the property was a monastery. During their stay, guests can experience a two-hour carbon-neutral guided tour of Prague in the BMWX5 hybrid, and take in the sights, including those outside the city, at their own pace in a BMW i3 they drive themselves. The Koda Forest at the Český Kras nature reserve will open its gates exclusively for Mandarin Oriental guests to enjoy the pure beauty of nature and to plant a tree to reduce their carbon footprint. The electrifying Prague package can be booked from May to October 2016 and includes accommodation in a deluxe terrace room, daily breakfast with a range of organic choices at Spices restaurant and bar and airport round-trip pick-up in BMW X5 hybrid In addition, guests can order a gourmet picnic basket of Asian snacks, sweet treats
and fruit juices to take with them and enjoy at their leisure during a drive or in one of Prague’s beautiful parks, for EUR 296.
About Mandarin Oriental, Prague
Mandarin Oriental, Prague is an intimate hotel located in a former Dominican monastery set amidst the palaces and gardens of Prague’s historic Malá Strana. With a former Renaissance chapel housing the award-winning Spa, the newly opened Spices Restaurant and Bar offering authentic Asian fares and original cocktails, and understated contemporary design blending local history with modern luxury, the hotel is a private oasis of sophistication and style in the very heart of Central Europe’s most beautiful city.
Hilton to manage 408-room resort in Bali The Hilton group has recently signed a management agreement with P.T. Caterison Sukses to manage and re-brand the Grand Nikko Bali as Hilton Bali. The 408-room resort, located on Jalan Raya Nusa Dua Selatan, is planned to open on December 1, 2016. Situated on the waterfront with its own stretch of secluded beach, Hilton Bali will offer 389 rooms and 19 one-, two- and three-bedroom villas with beachfront, ocean or garden views. The hotel will have five food and beverage outlets including an all-day dining restaurant, specialty restaurants and a bar. Extensive meetings and banqueting facilities spanning 3,737 square meters will include several meeting rooms, two conference centers with two ballrooms that can accommodate 1,500 people, as well as beachfront, cliff-top and poolside venues that are perfect for outdoor weddings. The resort is approximately 16 kilometers from Ngurah Rai International Airport and the district of Kuta. The hotel is also close to many watersports facilities and adventure sports service providers that offer various fun-filled options including jet packs, jet skis, para-gliding and dive trips.
Month-long Jordan food festival kicks off The Jordan tourism board in association with Zerzura is holding a month-long Jordan food festival and photo Exhibition in Zerzura, Qutub Hotel, Qutub Institutional Area, New Delhi. The food festival and photo exhibition will continue from June 3 to July 2, 2016. To kick-start the month-long festivities, a grand launch event was held at Zezura recently. The chief guest for the evening was the Jordanian Ambassador to India, His Excellency Hassan Mahmoud Mohammad Al Jawarneh and the guest of honour for the evening was the former Indian Ambassador to Jordan Anil Trigunayat. H.E. Hassan Al Jawarneh said, “It is indeed a pleasure for me to be here to promote tourism from India to Jordan and we hope the friendship and tourism between both countries continues to thrive.” “Jordan is truly a special country – it grows on you; its people, the food, the culture is so special that one wants to keep going back,” said Anil Trigunayat. “What truly amazes me about Jordan are the friendly people and their warmth which shines through,” said Amit Kishore.
countrie s + outbound
22
Air Asiana announces five flights a week from Delhi; South Korea set to gain traction Speaking with TF, Byugnsun Lee, Director, Korea Tourism Organization said that there has been a 25 percent hike in tourists in 2016. He expressed confidence that with better air-connectivity and joint marketing campaigns, Korea will position itself as a premier destination for the Indian outbound. By Shashank Shekhar
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ending more teeth to air-connectivity between India and South Korea, one of the two major airlines of South Korea, Asiana Airlines has recently announced the expansion of its non-stop Incheon (Seoul) to New Delhi service from current three to five flights per week. The announcement indicates growing bilateral traffic between two countries. Both the nations already share robust commercial ties with substantial investments by a number of Korean companies in India. The additional flight will begin on Jul 3, 2016. Currently, the airline is operating Airbus 300-330 with configuration of business class with 30 seats and travel class with 260 seats. In an official statement released by the airlines, it has sighted growing numbers of, both, leisure and corporate travellers for this decision. Byugnsun Lee, Director, Korea tourism organization noted that the increase in frequency obviously signaled an increase in visitors from India to Korea. “India is one of the key potential markets for South Korea, the Indian visitors graph is showing an upwards trend. We expect a good percentage increase in the near future,” he said. Adding that Korea remained positive about the growing numbers from India with 1.5 lakh visitors last year, he said that “as of April, we have received 25% growth
Byugnsun Lee Director, Korea Tourism Organization
India is one of the key potential markets for South Korea, the Indian visitors graph is showing an upwards trend. We expect a good percentage increase in the near future.
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compared to last year.” Sharing that South Korea was, undoubtedly, an upscale destination with a plethora of unique experiences for its visitors, he said that “direct connectivity to Seoul is definitely a key player with Seoul, Busan and Jeju as the focus destinations for tourism. Both Korean Air and Asiana Airline provide the most competitive costs for all the leisure and MICE travellers.” He informed that there were constant efforts to ease travel to South Korea, as much as possible, with more connectivity and more travel products available in the market for the tourists to select from. “We intend to position it as a most preferred premium destination, in Asia, sought after by the Indian travellers,” said the director. To his understanding the larger connect between the two nations had been shaped up considering the increase in demand from the Indian Outbound Market. He argued that with more connectivity, the destination was now becoming a more viable option for the corporate as well. “To boost leisure travel, we are joining hands with travel agents in the form of Joint Marketing Campaigns every quarter,” he said. “Regarding the corporate exchange, the growing trade relations between the two countries surely play significant role in contributing to the number of travellers,” said Byugnsun Lee.
Tourism Ireland hosts Indian travel trade for ‘Meitheal 2016’ Buoyed by growing numbers of Indian outbound, in a first, Tourism Ireland hosted 8 key Indian travel trade to Ireland’s largest tourism trade fair, Meitheal 2016, which was organised by Tourism Ireland. Bringing together diverse buyers, 310 overseas and 455 Irish tourism businesses, for two days of negotiating business deals, over 12,000 face to face meetings were organised over the duration of this event – allowing international and Irish operators to meet and agree business for the 2017 season. The India travel trade, before the commencement of the event, had an opportunity to experience Ireland’s destination brands – Dublin, Ireland’s Ancient East and the Wild Atlantic Way which was a key focus of their itinerary. The itinerary also included a visit to some of Ireland’s most iconic attractions such as Chester Beatty Library in Dublin, Trinity College and The Waterford Crystal Centre along with some great Irish traditional enthralling music, song and dance experience. In Northern Ireland, agents also visited the Titanic Belfast and a tour of HMS Caroline that will be opened to the public in June 2016. Huzan Fraser Motivala, India Representative, Tourism Ireland reacted to the development by noting that India was an important market for Tourism Ireland and “one that we are committed to growing. Over the last five years, we have seen a year-on-year increase of over 25% in Indian visitor arrival numbers to the island of Ireland.”
New York’s official tourism website, NYCgo.com gets a makeover; smarter interface aids to ‘ease of travel’
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ew York has long been one of the most frequented tourist cities in the world. Much of its success is attributed to its vibrancy. But, in the age of digitalization, organization’s marketing destinations need to remain updated in the online space to maximize their outreach. In a move on similar lines, expected to help tourism from around the world, and India, New York City’s official destination marketing organization has opted for a visual rebranding, along with launching a ‘re-imagined’ NYCgo.com. It is being called ‘the trusted, authentic and centralized five-borough tourism resource’. Infusing new elements like
two custom typefaces, the website includes more than 250 custom icons and a custom color palette – each of them inspired by the city’s vibrancy. Commenting on the occasion, Fred Dixon, president and CEO of NYC & Company noted that the move was aimed at matching the quality of the digital interface with the real experience. “New York City now has an enhanced, innovative tourism website and vibrant, updated branding to match our world-class, five-borough destination,” he said. He added that story-telling formed an important aspect of their outreach and the experience would encourage people to travel to New York. “We’re
excited to further engage with travelers and enhance our storytelling, inspiring visitation and improving the trip-planning experience during all phases of the travel cycle with the reenvisioned NYCgo,” he said. Conceived in 2009, the website re-launch is a step forward in a series of intended enhancements. The website, itself, is detailed and has an engaging interface. Some important enhancements like the important mobile-first and responsive design, increased video presence, high-impact visuals and real-time responsiveness to trending topics are expected to simply travelling experience for millions of tourists coming to the city each year.
Presenting Unique Segments at BITB 2016
luxury B2B and Conference
An exclusive showcase, a show within a show, devoted to Luxury products and services. Meet with your buyers in a specially demarcated zone, in the trappings of Luxury, serving wine and cheese on the house through the day in a central lounge. Who will Exhibit: Some 50 products, representing experiences, airlines and airports, hotels, second homes, cruises. Whom will you Meet: Meet hosted Luxury Buyers. Exclusive evening, meet with select celebrities onsite for private walk through and product presentations. Photo courtesy: Atlantis the Palm, Dubai
ITB Comes to India. The best of ‘Glocal’ is here!
Just exhibit, or also explore partnerships, exclusive to Luxury Showcase for that extra bit more!
niche tourism: shopping
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Macy’s offerings in-sync with the American character makes it a key outbound product
In an exclusive interview, Keri Hanson, Marketing Director, Macy’s USA outlined how shopping was a crucial ingredient for the Indian outbound coming to the US shores. She noted that MICE travelers, looking for specific experiences, were coming back as leisure clientele and Macy’s was playing a key role in catering to the tourist experience. An excerpt of the interview: By Shashank Shekhar
H market?
ow important is India in terms of numbers? Where does India stand as a source
Just to give you an idea of where we are, India, in 2015, was 25th most important source market for us. In 2016, in the first quarter, it has already jumped to 22nd position as a source market for Macy’s across the USA; it accounts to about nineteen percent overall growth in the last one year. We are, primarily, witnessing the largest growth in numbers in New York. We are up about twenty-nine percent in traffic since last year, in terms of Indian customers coming to our visitors’ centre. So, it has become one of our top focus markets, and we really feel that India is on the verge of exploding as far as tourism into the USA is concerned.
What is the profile of the Indian outbound? In terms of segment, where does MICE and leisure stand? How do they compare? We see a lot of group tours and MICE programs coming into our key cities, such as New York, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and San Francisco. Interestingly, we are
infrastructure and technology simply was not there; now, it is all mobile-first. So, we are witnessing India skip the traditional trajectory of transformation and take to mobile platforms. It becomes important, therefore, to develop services for the customers on the move, who want information and related research figures right-away on their phones. If one is not developing services to attract these consumers, they will lose out on Indian clientele.
decade ago, which started with large number of group travelers, maturing to a larger number of independent travelers, later moving exclusively towards the FITs. We witness a similar trajectory with the Indian market and that is precisely why we are here in India.
Could you elaborate on the experience quotient?
We have never done a widespread outreach, come to India and engage with the travel agent community, come up with ways to find extra-value for our Indian clientele. We want them to feel that we are rewarding them for coming in and shop in the world’s largest department store – we are the world’s largest retailer of American brands. So, travelers have the choice of choosing from diverse brands like Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger under one roof. It is difficult to emulate similar experience in another shopping outlet; the experience of shopping is simply unique.
Can you share with us some key insights into the Indian travellers’ engagements?
Keri Hanson Marketing Director, Macy's USA
Our stores lend to the profile of the city they are based in. So, San Francisco is a causal, relaxed city and our stores reflect that vibe. Obviously, being some distance away, Indian outbound stays in the USA longer. It is ten-fourteen days on an average, allowing them to really explore and move across the coast.
☛ Indian consumer is very discerning, constantly looking for, both, quality and value. It is where Macy’s provides a lot of traction for the Indian outbound. also seeing rise in the numbers of repeat visitors who are looking to come back to the USA for second or third holiday. They are looking at destinations like Miami, Chicago and Florida, and coming with their families. So, we are seeing the Indian customer evolve and become much more sophisticated, and willing to see newer destinations that are outside of the group experience. MICE clientele will remain key to the USA inbound and, especially, to the Macy’s. The Indian market is where China was a
L
How big is shopping in terms of the overall tourism experience? What role does Macy’s play?
Our stores are often located in the city-centre. So, if you are coming to New York, staying in Times Square, Macy’s is an easy walk down the street. We work a lot with our neighbours like the Empire State Building, it is just a block away from us, so there is just so much to see and do right around the Macy’s store.
How do Indian and China
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Why not consider opening a Macy’s store in India?
We now have online shipping on website purchases. We hope to open our first store outside of the USA in Abu Dhabi in 2018. We will take stock of the response and then take it further. As of now, we have no such plans of entering India.
compare as source markets for Macy’s?
I think we are a different era of technology altogether. What is coming out of India, now, is an amazing array of start-up companies, both, in Mumbai and Delhi. Also, there is such an entrepreneurial spirit in the Indian business community to provide all types of travel value. So, when we compare India and China as source markets, we are comparing between 2006 and 2016. Technology has just evolved by nature, having said that, there is huge interest in the FITs segment in using mobile based applications, going for online price comparison and wanting to opt for app-based services. This market just was not there when it came to China, mostly because the related
Macy’s: an integral part of the American experience
aunched way over hundred and fifty years ago, head-quartered at Cincinnati, Ohio, Macy’s is the USA’s largest mid-range retail departmental store. Going by the latest count, the store operates in 769 different locations in the mainland USA, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and Guam. Spread across, almost, a block of New York City, Macy’s flagship shop at the Herald Square- which is an outcome of an intersection of Broadway, Sixth Avenue and 34th Street in the borough of Manhattan – is a
Indian consumer is very discerning, constantly looking for, both, quality and value. It is where Macy’s provides a lot of traction for the Indian outbound. Customers shopping with us recognize that we have stores like the one in NY – it is an eleven floor shopping complex – is one fantastic shopping experience. As I said, they have extremely high-end brands, but when you come to Las Vegas, it is a different type of
store with a different experience on offer. So, each time one comes to Macy’s and each city one visits, it is a new experience. They might offer same brands, but a lot of our merchandise is exclusive to us. For instance, you might not find a similar hand-bag you like in any other Macy’s. Therefore, offerings are unique. We are able to deliver the experience of shopping wherein each of Macy’s outlet has something unique in stored for shoppers. Our stores lend to the profile of the city they are based in. So, San Francisco is a causal, relaxed city and our stores reflect that vibe. Obviously, being some distance away, Indian outbound stays in the USA longer. It is ten-fourteen days on an average, allowing them to really explore and move across the coast. So, they do frequent famed destinations like NY, Niagara Falls, Washington DC and Florida.
much sought after destination for shopping aficionados. The flagship store is a major tourist attraction with a whopping 1.1 million sq.ft. of retail space, featuring a vast variety of products. Given that shopping prominently figures in the list of ‘must-do’ activities for Indian tourists, its importance in strengthening tourism related movement and adding to the diversity of the overall products has been immense, so much so that India has become 22nd most important source market for the American corporation.
3–6 October, 2016 New Delhi
niche tourism: museums
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Tarun Thakral rues lack of interface, basic hygeine for dismal show of museums India’s culture and history are its strongest USPs, and yet our museums have failed to emerge as important tourism products. Even more baffling is the fact that while Indians continue to swarm best of global museums, they rarely take to domestic ones. We caught up with Tarun Thakral, Founder and Managing Trustee, Heritage Transport Museum to understand India’s dismal show in creating world-class museums, and how his undertaking is fast becoming a stupendous success. An excerpt of the interview: By Shashank Shekhar
“C
oming from a British colony, India, thanks to Britishers, had some very nice museums in its repository, but what happened after that,” asked Tarun Thakral. His assertion underlines the perennial neglect bestowed on museums by successive governments, irrespective of their political lineage, since independence. It also remains a fact that, unfortunately in India, museums are predominantly government undertaking. Almost 98 percent of museums in India is controlled, owned, and operated by the government. While, another major challenge is that, propriety museums, besides government run museums, like the Rail museum run by the Railways, or the Air force museum run by the IAF are looked down upon by officers who are made in-charge of those facilities. “Sadly, these are considered
Tarun Thakral Founder and Managing Trustee, Heritage Transport Museum
A comparison of content, on display, between some of the world’s finest museums and one’s in India, tells us that we have some of the finest articrafts and heritage; there is no dearth of quality. There may be a historical content, but one needs to find an interesting and a fun way of ‘story-telling’.
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☛ Innovative use of available space, modern audio-visual tools and diversity in product on display makes heritage museum a success. ☛ Museums need to be centered around people and not the other way around. Creating connect a major challenge. ☛ The Heritage Transport Museum adds to the product quotient of more frequented ‘Golden Triangle’. punishment posting for people associated with these organizations. There are a handful of officers who enjoy working in museums and take interest in preserving heritage,” he explained. The cumulative impact of this neglect has resulted in a complete curtailment from constant innovation; nothing new comes out. “Things have gone down; the world has moved towards digital displays and audio-visuals, and here in India, not much has changed. Descriptions on artifacts are pathetic; if you go to National Museum or any other major museum, you will find artifacts kept in the same way as had been put up first. It becomes very boring for people to go and enjoy the same thing over and over again; a sense of monotony creeps in,” he said. Sharing that during one of his trips to Rajasthan, he came across old Gramophones, lamps and other knickknacks, besides finding a dilapidated car in one of the trips and ended up creating a huge collection of carriages, carts, locomotives and vintage cars, he reminisced “I picked up basically
anything that moved and did not know what to do with it. I formed a not for profit trust in 2006 to ensure that the collection, which had been created with great difficulties and lot of efforts that spanned for well-over two decades, remained intact.”
He approached the GOI in 2009 with the idea of developing a heritage transport museum, besides making adequate land available for it. The government offered six crores rupees to partly offset the construction cost. “We also received some donations in tune of four crores. But the entire project was, roughly, around fourteen crores, so I arranged the remaining sum on a loan to the trust,” he shared. Finally, the museum was thrown open to public in late 2013 and, since then, there has been a constant growth of visitors. “The museum is some forty minutes drive from the nearest hub, Gurgaon. But, we receive a number of school children during the weekdays. International tourist groups, on their way to Jaipur, are stopping by to check out the collection. It is
fast transforming into a destination in itself,” Tarun Thakral enthusiastically said. When asked to pin-point reasons for such a fast-paced growth of his museum in gaining popularity and footfalls, he attributed it to a number of reasons, stating that it would also decode why majority of museums were finding it hard to attract serious footfalls. “Firstly, we were not forced to get into an old structure as we created our building. So, we had the liberty to choose how best we were going to manage our spaces with what all we had. It is a very industrial looking building – which goes with the whole transport museum vibe. We did not want our displays to be boring, so they have been put up very interestingly,” he said. Adding that the way the museum was designed, one could
Steam train to Rewari in coming winter will add to the experience quotient
T
he heritage transport museum has an enviable collection of pre-modern automobiles, but there are several more elements to it. Jugaad (hacked) vehicles, threewheelers, train engines, by-gone era school buses – often evoking nostalgia in the audience – and horse-carts have been showcased with equal fervour. The element of diversity in items on display has helped it gain traction in travellers and locals, alike. “We also realized that people were visiting the museum by themselves. Adults come with their children and spend an entire day
there,” said Tarun Thakral. Despite a warm reception from audience, hamstrung by limited budget, the museum was forced to rely on ‘word-of-mouth’ publicity for outreach. But, thanks to its engaging means, incorporation of latest technology and creation of museum infrastructure keeping visitor’s convenience in mind have begun paying handsome dividends. Re-invigorated by the success of this commendable venture, the management trust is in talks with GOI for operating a steam train from Delhi. “Talks are in advance stage
with the Indian Railways to run a steam train from Delhi to Rewari – which is the closest railhead to the museum,” shared Tarun Thakral. Once operational, it is likely to strengthen famed ‘golden triangle’, as tourists would actually sample a long-lost technology by riding a steam train; witness an old locomotive shed in Rewari; hop into a bus and spend time at the museum, finally head back to Delhi on the same train. “It will be great heritage experience. We are hoping to commence operations from the coming winters,” he informed.
actually move the collection around, hence lending it a greater degree of fluidity and vibrancy, he informed that they had added substantial contemporary artwork, which helped breaking the monotony in visitor’s experience. “If you see twenty cars in row, your mind will stop registering further. It is human tendency. So, we have mixed contemporary art in the confines at various places without moving out of the purview of transport related objects. There are modern and old videos displayed at several places,” he said. The moot question that remains unanswered is why have government museums not been able to replicate this success? The answer, most likely, lies not in comparison of content on display, but the way it connected to the audience, felt Tarun Thakaral. “A comparison of content, on display, between some of the world’s finest museums and one’s in India, tells us that we have some of the finest articrafts and heritage; there is no dearth of quality,” he reasoned. Comparing it with the heritage transport museum to put things in perspective, he noted that one may put on display, an eighth century idol, but how does one make it relate to audiences who come to visit them was the key in generating interest. “It is easier to connect to transport related objects,” he said. Suggesting incorporation of interesting and engaging displays to help visitors develop a connect with museums, he added “there may be a historical content, but one needs to find an interesting and a fun way of ‘story-telling’,” stressed Tarun Thakral Alleging museums, in India, to be overtly stuffed up in their thought processes in describing a particular piece, he called it a bookish way of going about it. “Today’s generation with gadgets and gizmos, all around them, have little patience for such descriptions,” he reasoned. Contesting that the school of thought that believed museums as mere repositories of objects was passé, he called them source of learning. “It must, however, be contextualized in the present milieu,” he said. Technical issues of engaging with audiences aside, India is yet to get its basics right. Basic hygiene remained a huge concern, noted the founder. “It is unfortunate, but the condition of public amenities, restrooms and general cleanliness is in the pits,” he said. Quipping that he had received several comments on how nice and clean washrooms were in the transport museum, he called it a basic facility, but noted that people, these days, were sensitive to such things.
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Global player ITB Berlin, the world’s biggest tourism fair, joins hands with the most experienced local in India!
B2B Buying & Selling + Focused Conclaves in Leading Segments of the Business
the l a st pag e
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PM Modi plays the role of Brand Ambassador for Destination India as he travels the world
Since he took over from Manmohan Singh in May 2014, PM Narendra Modi has travelled to thirty-eight countries in five continents, including his trips to the UN and other multilateral forums like SAARC summit and G-20 conference. In the last two years, PM has spent 95 days on the foreign soil, attempting to re-vitalize diplomatic ties through stronger economic co-operation and investments. In his recently concluded trip to five nations, which included his fourth visit to the US shores, PM Modi covered 33,000 kilometers, attending over 45 engagements. A sense of urgency to signal India’s willingness for stronger engagement in trade and commerce with the global community is palpable. Perhaps, it is for the first time ever since the ‘Incredible India’ campaign that there is excitement about India as a market, and a nation, poised for greater things. Branding and marketing remain crucial components of outreach, but India has always been found wanting on that count. Given PM’s pro-active engagement with the business community in each of his foreign visits, he is addressing a core concern of the larger tourism industry. It is inevitable that this dynamism will translate into larger movement of people and services, propelling travel and tourism in the immediate future. Growing bonhomie between India and US have implications on trade and commerce
Press Statement by PM during his visit to Switzerland A state visit to Mexico comes after 30 years by an Indian PM
India-Qatar Joint Statement during the PM’s visit to Qatar PM greeted to a rousing reception after the historic speech at the Capitol Hill
India-Afghanistan deepen engagement with stronger bilateral cooperation
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