A Remarkable Convention - The SKAL India Congress in Mysuru and Bengaluru

Shri HK Patil, Honourable Minister for Tourism, Law and Parliament Affairs, Govt. of Karnataka, inaugurated the SKAL India Congress, a first-of-its-kind convention in which Mysuru and Bengaluru hosted a galaxy of prominent tourism professionals from India and abroad.

The first-ever SKAL INDIA CONGRESS was organised by SKAL International India in Bengaluru and Mysuru. It was a sophisticated platform designed for professionals in the travel industry who wish to contribute to its growth.

This event served as a catalyst for the exchange of perspectives on the industry's most important issues. The purpose of the event was to anticipate the industry's future development by bridging the gap between today's resources and tomorrow's sustainability. 

Ayappa Somaiah, president of the hosting club in Bangalore, stated,

"Incredible connections and partnerships forged during the conference have paved the way for a brighter future for our industry. The conference fuelled our inspiration and reaffirmed our commitment to meet the challenges posed by the industry's expansion."

The Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, ably supported and promoted this event. Karnataka will be the first Indian state to conduct this event in two of its most prominent cities, Mysuru and Bengaluru. We have set a global precedent by bringing together two significant cities to demonstrate their commitment to the Travel and Tourism Industry.

Highlights of the event included Brand Ambassadors:

Bomman Bellie, the protagonists of the Oscar-winning documentary 'Elephant Whisperers,' are the face of an emerging altruistic India, aware of its wealth and wise enough to preserve it. This unassuming tribal couple has already been honoured by our illustrious president, Shrimati Droupadi Murmu, and has received numerous accolades for their selfless efforts to rear orphaned elephant offspring as if they were their own children.

Having them serve as Brand Ambassadors, thereby endorsing Skal's commitment to sustainable development objectives in which nature in all its diversity is carefully protected from Anthropocene impacts. Who else besides Bomman and Bellie could have justified such a mission?

Carl Vaz, president of SKAL International India, stated:

"The SKAL India Congress was a resounding triumph, bringing together industry executives and visionaries for a stimulating exchange of ideas. The congress provided us with invaluable insights and actionable conclusions, leaving us better suited to promote the development of our members. The Congress promised and delivered an event filled with networking, business sessions, cultural displays, and fellowship."

Sudipta Deb, who chairs the Congress, stated:

"From engaging keynote sessions to the vibrant networking opportunities, this congress has brought our club members closer, and the energy and enthusiasm generated here will continue to drive our mission forward".

The Congress opened with a cultural spectacle set against the backdrop of Mysuru Palace, where the colourful preface to the Mysore Dasara festivities were displayed. A panel discussion on the conservation and heritage of Mysore, a session on the increasing menace of cyber-crimes, and a power-packed interview with the Chairman and Managing Director of Lemon Tree Hotels, Mr. Patu Keswani.

Sudipta Deb, who chairs the Congress, stated:

"From engaging keynote sessions to the vibrant networking opportunities, this congress has brought our club members closer, and the energy and enthusiasm generated here will continue to drive our mission forward".

The event included a business-to-business (B2B) exhibition that highlighted the importance of business networking and helped to promote various destinations and products. Tourism and hospitality industry achievers were honoured at the conclusion of the business sessions. The event featured delegates from the United States, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Kenya, and Rwanda, making it one of the most successful SKAL National conventions to date.

BS Prashanth, Co-Host and President of SKAL International Mysore, stated:

"For the first time in the annals of SKAL International, two organisations have joined forces to organise a National Congress. Our congress has been a remarkable journey, but it's only the beginning of the wonderful things our club can accomplish together. This congress has established a new standard for excellence and demonstrated the fortitude of our members."

Usha Uthup, India's supreme vocal diva, brought the festivities to a close with a performance that brought the house down with her baritone voice.

About SKAL Skl International, founded in Paris in 1932, is a professional organisation of tourism executives from around the globe that promotes Global Tourism and Friendship. It is the sole international organisation that unites all segments of the travel and tourism industry. Its members, the industry's managers and executives, convene at local, national, and international levels to Do Business Among Friends.

Skl International currently has approximately 17,000 members in 400 Clubs spread across more than 90 countries. Under the auspices of Skl International, which is headquartered in Torremolinos, Spain, the majority of activities are conducted at the local level, with the National Committees serving as a conduit to the General Secretariat.

SKAL INTERNATIONAL INDIA represents the national chapter of this organisation, with over 1700 members spread across 17 organisations in 16 cities in India.