Formed in 2008, at the behest of the Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India, the founding members of Ecotourism Society of India comprised of 13 widely experienced, eco-sensitive professionals from the Tourism industry, state government departments of tourism and forests, wildlife conservation, NGOs and also Members of Parliament. This national body for ecotourism stood on three pillars:
- Engaging in advocacy
- Helping create policies and guidelines
- Helping with certification
ESOI stood for Responsible and Sustainable practices In the Business of Tourism- and advocated our Collective Responsibility to ensure the Sustainability of the supporting Natural Environment and the Socio- Cultural surroundings for the Business to sustain over a long time.
To highlight the above aspects, the society has been re-christened as;
‘The Responsible Tourism Society of India’
RTSOI/ESOI works closely with the central and state government bodies responsible for sustainable tourism and a network of like-minded regional / state players across the country to facilitate and support synergy of policies, initiatives and activities at the national and state level.
The society is open for membership to conscious companies and individuals who wish to walk the Sustainable path and lend support to the cause.
Responsible Tourism
Responsible tourism is any form of tourism that can be consumed in a more responsible way.
“Responsible tourism is tourism which:
- Minimizes negative social, economic and environmental impacts.
- Generates greater economic benefits for local people and enhances the well-being of host communities.
- Improves working conditions and access to the industry.
- Involves local people in decisions that affect their lives and life chances.
- Makes positive contributions to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage embracing diversity.
- Provides more enjoyable experiences for tourists through more meaningful connections with local people, and a greater understanding of local cultural, social and environmental issues.
- Provides access for physically challenged people.
- Is culturally sensitive, encourages respect between tourists and hosts, and builds local pride and confidence.
Cape Town Declaration, 2002
OUR MISSION
The Responsible Tourism Society of India is dedicated to the promotion of sustainable and responsible tourism practices within the tourism industry. All funds/income generated are utilized towards achieving the following objectives of the society.
- Tabulate eco-sensitive areas where tourism will have an impact on the social, cultural and natural environment.
- Make strategies and efforts to ensure long-term (perpetual) sustenance of the environment.
- Work with empowered bodies to establish Carrying Capacity and sustainable tourism practices which include conservation of nature and wildlife, and allow local communities to benefit from tourism.
- Develop policies and codes of conduct for promotion of Sustainable tourism, and help implementation Strategy.
- Develop a Sustainability based Certification of tourism service providers.
- Act as a watchdog for excessive consumption of Natural Resources and any negative impact of/on the tourism sector.
- Support Research in Tourism.
- Work with service providers to enhance quality of their product and services to a level so they can be sustainable and eco-friendly.
- Encourage use of appropriate local practices, materials, art, craft, architecture, food etc
- Encourage minimal conspicuous consumption and prevent excessive consumption of energy.
- Encourage Energy Saving Practices, Water Harvesting, Use of Solar and other Natural Energy Sources.
- Encourage good Waste Management Practices especially of non-bio-degradable materials.
- Encourage low pollution-generating practices and Minimise Carbon Footprint.
- Organize training and other activities to create awareness on Ecotourism, Sustainable and Responsible tourism.
- To collaborate with like-minded bodies and implement ecotourism objectives in India and abroad.
- To continually identify new Ecotourism destinations, Strengthen Ecotourism and make India a preferred Ecotourism Destination.
Team RTSOI
Former CEO, BASS (IHG) HOTELS, South & West Asia. &
Former President, ITC WelcomHeritage Hotels
Director and Principal Advisor:
LORDS Hotels and Resorts
WOODBRIDGE Guest Homes
- Member Since: January-2008
RAKESH MATHUR is a Hospitality Industry professional with over forty-seven years of leadership experience in Indian and Global Hotel groups.
After schooling in Shimla and Graduation in Economics Honours from SRCC, Delhi, he joined Oberoi Hotels in 1973 as a Management Trainee and grew in the Industry and worked with Global and Multinational Hotel Organizations and became Executive Director of IHG ( then BASS ) Hotels for South and West Asia.
Rakesh’s passion with India’s Heritage, Culture and Environment started in 2001, when he took over as President of ITC WelcomHeritage Hotels, a Company launched under the Chairmanship of HH Maharaja Gaj Singh ji of Jodhpur to revive India’s BUILT Heritage through Tourism.
Since Heritage Properties are mostly in Rural areas, Rakesh Co-founded the Ecotourism Society of India, to spread awareness about sustainable tourism practices, and is its Current Honorary President.
Rakesh continues to contribute his experience and expertise as a Board member to the Indian Heritage Hotels Association, INTACH Tourism Committee, Auro University, Surat, (Tourism), and HI AIM as CHAIRMAN.
He is also Director and Principal Advisor to Lords Hotels and Resorts.
Apart from his professional affiliations, Rakesh is associated with several Industry and Philanthropic activities. He is recipient of The Karamveer Patra from ICONGO for pioneering the CODE OF CONDUCT for SAFE & HONOURABLE TOURISM , officially endorsed by UNODC and adopted by the Ministry of Tourism, and several awards for contributions to the Hospitality Industry.
He is a Paul Harris Member of the Rotary Club of Delhi Southend, Hon. President of Save the Children India (Delhi), and supports a personal Charitable Foundation engaged in poor and orphaned children’s health and education and women’s empowerment.
Rakesh is widely travelled, father of two sons and a daughter and two grand daughters, who all enjoy Photography, Arts, Cinema and Travel.
MD,
Indeco Hotels, Chennai
Member Since:
January-2008Mr. Steve Borgia is currently the Chairman & Managing Director of INDeco Leisure Hotels. INDeco is “INDIA ECOLOGY”, a tourism company with National interest. And also the only Indian Hotel group to win the distinguished “Global Eco Tourism Award”. His pioneering rural tourism in India mend the broken backbone of Indian villages has been one of his most significant contributions to TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT in India.
With basic education in Commerce, he specialized in Group Dynamics and Social Communication from CNRS – LYONS, France. Later, returned to India to do ground research in social communication for Rural Development.
Steve Borgia wears several caps. But all through carries the INDOLOGIST one. Whether at the UN, Government of India, Press, Films, Hotels or the Corporate, he moves beyond competition, finding a unique position. His companies and concepts are people centric. Creating INDeco Hotels Swamimalai, INDeco Hotels Mahabalipuram and INDeco’s Lake Forest Hotel, India’s unique heritage hotel is a landmark. Making these heritage hotels accommodate, fund & operate the Steve Borgia’s Indian Heritage Museum, is a Master Stroke born out of his acumen for Business and his concern for humanity at large. Highly committed to ecology and heritage, he holds office as VICE PRESIDENT in the INDIAN HERITAGE HOTELS ASSOCIATION. He is also the founding member of the RESPONSIBLE TOURISM SOCIETY OF INDIA (Formerly – Eco Tourism Society of India). CHAIRMAN OF THE RURALTOURISM SOCIETY OF INDIA. FOUNDER MEMBER of Association for Agri & Rural Tourism in India.
Founder & Managing Director,
Ibex Expeditions Pvt. Ltd.
- Member Since: January-2008
Explorer, Mountaineer, Environmentalist, Adventure travel & Eco tourism specialist.
Mandip has over 35 years of climbing and exploration experience in India and other parts of the world. He has instructed at outdoor schools in Scotland and Wales, climbed in the Alps and made first ascents in the Indian Himalaya .
The Limca Book of records nominated him ‘India’s most versatile Expeditioner ‘. He was conferred the Ness Award for expeditions and explorations by the Royal Geographical Society, London.
In 1989 at the ICEWALK International Students Expedition in the Canadian Arctic near the North Pole, he studied environmental impacts of pollutants in the ice and the growing ozone hole, under the auspices of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
In 2002, the year of the Mountains, he participated in an Indo Pakistan Friendship expedition in the Swiss Alps under the IUCN and UIAA and has been campaigning to save the Siachen Glacier from environmental degradation due to the two armies present.
In 2007 , he undertook a ecotourism river expedition with the Government , in the state of Madhya Pradesh to try and convert bandits into tourism guides and naturalists in this biodiverse rich but bandit ridden area.
Mandip Singh Soin FRGS , is the Founder and Managing Director of Ibex Expeditions Private Limited. Established in 1979, Ibex is a specialist tourism company in India that specializes in Ecotourism, Adventure, Luxury & Safari Travel.
Ibex received the Green Globe Distinction Award & the PATA Gold Award in 1999 for Outstanding Environmental Achievements. The World Travel Environmental Company Award in 2000 and in 2001 they received the National Award of Excellence by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India for being the most environmentally friendly organisation .
He has edited the four issues of the Environment & Eco Tourism handbook published by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
He lectures worldwide on responsible and ecologically sound tourism and is deeply committed to being a good trustee of this earth.
His other passions, when not on expedition, are listening to Beethoven, fly fishing, indulging in puns, flipping omlettes to perfection and for relaxation he takes the occasional bungee.
MD,
CGH Earth Hotels
- Member Since: January 2008
Jose Dominic has been heading CGH Earth (formerly Casino Group of Hotels) as its Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director from 1978 to 2017.
Casino Hotel started by Dominic Joseph in 1957, grew into a group of Hotels, globally and nationally acknowledged for its unique model under Jose Dominic’s leadership.
In 1988, the group won the contract to reconstruct and operate the Bangaram Island Resort on Bangaram Island in Lakshadweep islands. The model adopted pioneering for its time put the Lakshadweep on the global tourism map and became the precursor of a new model of tourism introduced by the group in Kerala then known as Casino Group of Hotels. Beginning with Spice Village in Thekkady in 1991 was followed by several award winning hotels such as Coconut Lagoon in Kumarakom in 1993, Marari Beach in 1996 and the Brunton Boatyard in 1998 and thereafter best in class facilities for Ayurveda and Yoga and recently Prakriti Chikiktsa.
The model rested on the foundations of sustainability, social inclusion and the local ethos. The demonstrative success of this model resulted in other entrepreneurs adopting the model that eventually gave to Kerala the leadership to adopt Responsible Tourism as the development strategy. Today tourism represents for Kerala a key engine of development based on Responsible Tourism for which Kerala Tourism has now won the prestigious UNWTO Ulysses Award.
In recognition of his efforts the Ministry of Tourism, in the year 2003 gave a Special Commendation Award to Mr. Jose Dominic for Resort Development. Jose Dominic was also the founder President in the year 2000 of Kerala Travel Mart which has emerged as one of India’s most significant tourism marketing event. He has been the recipient of several awards including Management Leadership Award from Kerala Management Association, Lifetime Achievement Honour form Times of India group, Aathithya Ratna Award from Hotel Investment Forum, Award for “Business Excellence leading to Development of society at large” from Manappuram Finance, Sustainable Person of the year Award, Hotelier Award from UTC, Business Excellence from D.C. Books, Entrepreneurship Award from TiE Kerala, Business Reliability Award from Reporter Channel, Game Changer Award from Durga Das Publication to name some.
The group renowned for its sustainability initiatives has received the prestigious Green Globe Award from World Travel Mart, several awards from Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) for environment conservation. Also the hotels of the group have been repeatedly recipient of Excellence in Tourism Award from Government of India, Ministry of Tourism as well as from the Government of Kerala.
Jose Dominic has served on several National and State advisory panels on tourism of the Government and industry bodies. Some of these include National Tourism Advisory Council of the Government of India and the Government of Kerala, Tourism Think Tank of Government of India, Member – Expert Panel on Tourism of ASSOCHAM (Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India, and CII (Confederation of Indian Industry) etc. He has been invited to speak at major conferences and seminars on Tourism including Conference on Tourism Taxation organized by World Tourism Organization, Colloquium of Conservation and Heritage Tourism organized by the British Council. He has also presented papers on Sustainable Tourism at the Annual Convention of the Indian Association of Tour Operators.
Jose Dominic is the Founder President of Kerala Travel Mart and founder member of the Eco Tourism Society of India. He has been closely associated with the conservation movement and serves as the Co-convener of INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage). He was the past President of TiE – Kerala Chapter, was the President of the Cochin Chamber of Commerce and was Chairman of CII, Kerala region. Jose Dominic is presently member of the WTM Responsible Tourism Advisory Panel, member of National Tourism Advisory Council – Government of India and member of Kerala State Tourism Advisory Panel. He is also in the Board of Governors of Xavier Institute of Management and Entrepreneurship (XIME) – Kochi.
Mr. Jose Dominic Kuruvinakunnel, hails from Pala, Kerala, is a Chartered Accountant by qualification and graduate in Commerce from Loyola College, Chennai.
Consultant, UNDP
Read More- E-75, Basement, East of Kailash, New Delhi – 110065
Member Since: January 2008
SUDHIR SAHI was educated at The Doon School, Dehra Dun and at St. Stephen’s College, Delhi where he obtained the B.A. Honours and M.A. degrees in Economics.
He was UNDP National Consultant for the GOI-UNDP Rural Tourism Project from its inception in 2003 till its completion in 2010 with principal responsibility for the Project’s planning and implementation, thereby enabling the Project to win the PATA Grand Award 2010.
His professional career in the tourism industry spans 37 years, covering sustainable tour operations & marketing, hotel management, airline marketing and continuing international tourism consultancy.
He was Member of the National Tourism Advisory Council of GOI Ministry of Tourism, and the Ministry’s Committee to formulate Sustainable Tourism Criteria for India, and Member of the Working Group on Tourism for the 12th Five Year Plan of GOI Ministry of Tourism.
His focus areas are sustainable tourism, rural tourism to support livelihoods of local communities, ecotourism and habitat conservation. This has included his extensive work- related travel across India, UK, Europe, USA, Central Asia, Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, China, Japan, Thailand, Cambodia, Singapore, Nepal and Sri Lanka.
He served for four years on the GOI Ministry of Environment & Forests Expert Committee for
Environment Impact Assessment of Tourism, Transport and Port Projects.
He has represented India on the Youth Commission of the world apex Union of International Alpinist Associations, and was Delhi Secretary of the Himalayan Club and Honorary Secretary & Editor of the Indian Mountaineering Foundation.
He is a frequent commentator and writer on mountain regions, sustainable tourism, the environment, marketing and infrastructure.
Chief Naturalist, Taj Safaris
Associate Director Evolve Back resorts
- Member Since: January 2008
Sarath has been an ardent wildlife enthusiast for the past 30 years. Having grown up reading books by Jim Corbett, his tryst with wildlife was sparked off with a trip to Jim Corbett N. P., way back in 1982. By education, Sarath is a post-graduate in Sociology from Delhi School of Economics.
While dabbling in various professions (last one was a Stockbroker) he was chosen as the Chief Naturalist for Jungle Lodges and Resorts (JLR), a pioneer in eco-tourism in India. He went on to work with them for 7 years, initially based in their world renowned, Kabini River Lodge, Nagarahole. Sarath has a rich experience in guiding and has led many prestigious wildlife groups. He assisted many international researchers and filmmakers in the field. He has spearheaded the Training and Consultancy wing of JLR. He has also worked closely with the Karnataka Forest Dept. in various field programs including wildlife census operations, training of forest guards and wild elephant capturing operations. He also worked with Forest Departments of M.P and Uttarakhand for developing ecotourism and in training Park Guides. He is a Founder-Member of the Ecotourism Society of India.
Sarath has travelled extensively to the wildlife sanctuaries in India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ethiopia, South Africa, Botswana, Australia, USA, Canada, Sumatra and Borneo. In 2011, he was fortunate enough to visit both the Poles, the Arctic and Antarctica, thus covering all the continents in the world. He loves a bit of adventure combined with natural history and has summited Mt.Kilimanjaro, in August 2005. He treks regularly in the Himalayas and went on several expeditions to the higher reaches of the Himalayas tracking the elusive Snow Leopards.
Sarath joined Taj Safaris in January 2006 as Chief Naturalist and Head Trainer and trained Naturalists for their 4 lodges in Central India, in a first of its kind intensive training program in India. He was instrumental in implementing India’s first wild-to-wild large mammal re-location of Gaurs from Kanha National Park to Bandhavgarh N.P in Madhya Pradesh in 2011, as a part of a joint project between Taj Safaris, M.P. Forest Dept and the Wildlife Institute of India.
Sarath is now based in Bangalore and is freelance Naturalist and Consultant. He is an Associate Director at Evolve Back Resorts (formerly Orange County). He is the Lead Trainer for Karnataka Ecotourism Board, for whom he trains Eco-volunteers, Naturalists and Nature Guides. He is also the Honorary Wildlife Warden for Karnataka Forest Department.
Sarath regularly leads wildlife tours to Africa, Arctic and Antarctica for Planet Wildlife. He also gives talks frequently on wildlife and conservation in various forums and has also given a few TED and INK talks.
Sarath is a part of the core team who produced ‘Wild Karnataka’, a blue chip wildlife documentary which showcases the incredible biodiversity of Karnataka. The 52 minute film took four years in the making. It has been produced on behalf of the Karnataka Forest Department and narrated by David Attenborough.
Member Since: Feb 2023
Dr Samir Sinha is an IFS officer of the Uttarakhand cadre 1990 batch. A PhD in wildlife Dr Samir Sinha has over 30 years of hands-on experience in the Natural Resource and Wildlife Management sector, across various levels including management planning, implementation and policy, at the local, national, regional and international levels. He is also a member of several committees on forest and wildlife laws and policies, wildlife management and allied issues at the National and state level and helped establish and operationalize the South Asian Wildlife Enforcement Network (SAWEN) for strengthening regional cooperation for wildlife enforcement.
Dr Sinha is credited with special efforts towards the amelioration of human-wildlife conflict situations, having captured, sometimes at great personal risk wildlife to save them for the human encounter. He also established South Asia’s first Wildlife Sniffer Dog squads, providing them to state forest departments and coordinating their deployment and introduced the use of Deep Search Metal Detectors in India to various Tiger landscapes, providing training support to Field Personnel in their use. He works closely with various stakeholders to promote community-centric ecotourism models and responsible tourism in and around Protected Areas. Dr Sinha has also conducted a number of capacity-building programs including for Forest Dept., Police, Army, Paramilitary, Customs, Judiciary, media personnel and local communities and has contributed his experience and energy as Resource Person at premier National Institutions.
An inspiring author and a recipient of many awards and accolades, his articles find frequent place in journals and magazines and features in documentaries and TV interviews. Dr Sinha is a Ph. D (Wildlife Science) buffet and a Fulbright Nehru Fellow and holds P.G. Diploma in Wildlife Management. He is presently serving as Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) & Chief Wildlife Warden Uttarakhand. Based in Dehradun, his other interests include Forest and Wildlife policy and laws, photography and travel.
Presently based in Dehradun, Uttarakhand
Umaid Bhawan Palace,
Circuit House Road,
Jodhpur – 342006,
Rajasthan
Member Since: October-2013
Fondly referred to as Bapji, His Highness Maharaja Gaj Singh II,is the titular Maharaja of Marwar. Born into the Royal Family, Bapji is an Oxford graduate who returned to his roots and began his long and arduous journey of restoring heritage monuments, turning them into internationally recognised award-winning structures that today not only function as fabulous sites and museums, but remain alive as social, cultural and religious hubs.
An early pioneer of heritage and cultural tourism in India and Founder President of the Indian Heritage Hotel Association, he has provided leadership for nearly 40 years to promote the adaptive reuse of historic homes and palaces. This has not only helped to preserve the properties, but also created a substantial impact on local economies – reviving local arts, crafts and music traditions; providing new and attractive employment opportunities; and contributing significantly to boost the Indian tourism industry. Besides the conversion of his own palaces into hotels, foremost among them the Umaid Bhawan Palace, one of the most magnificent and iconic palace hotels in the world, operated and managed as Taj, and the Mehrangarh Fort into an internationally acclaimed museum, His own forts, Mehrangarh (15th century) in Jodhpur and Ahhichatragarh (12th century) in Nagaur, are outstanding examples of conservation and restoration work in the country and are recipients of the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Distinction & Excellence respectively.
As founder and active trustee of various organisations working in such diverse fields as Rural Regeneration, Water Harvesting, Water Conservation , Sanitation, Food Security, Livestock Security, Fodder Livelihood, Environment and Sustainability, Heritage Conservation, Women and Girls’ Education and Healthcare, he displays an unwavering sense of social responsibility.
A multifaceted personality Bapji has many awards to his credit including the prestigious Hadrian Award from the World Monument Fund,IATO Wall of Fame Award and Lifetime Achievement award by Conde Naste Traveller Magazine and Indian Hospitality Leadership Awards by APHMI
A philanthropist working towards the larger good of his land, heritage, and culture, Bapji has served as a Member of the Indian Parliament and also as an Indian High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago.
Member Since: January-2014
Mr. Madan Prasad Bezbaruah, retired as the Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. After retirement he served as Banking Ombudsman for the Reserve Bank of India and also as Member, North Eastern Council (in the rank of Minister of State).
The World Tourism Organization appointed him as Honorary Permanent Representative “in recognition of the valuable contribution made to the development of tourism”. He served for several years as member of the Strategic Group of UN-WTO and was Chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).
He has authored the report on Indian Outbound Tourism for UN-WTO, and SASEC Regional Tourism for ADB. He was National Consultant of ADB’s SASEC Tourism Development Project, phase I and II, and UN-WTO’s project on Development of Coastal Tourism in the states of West Bengal and Orissa.
Mr. Bezbaruah has written three books- ‘Indian Tourism: Beyond the Millennium”, “The Guest is God-Reflections on Tourism” and “Frontiers of New Tourism” and is the Chief Editor of five-volume encyclopedia- “Fairs and Festivals of India.”
He secured a first class master’s degree in economics from the Delhi School of Economics and the Master of Public Administration degree from Harvard University, USA.
- 1464, Sector 14
FARIDABAD 121 007
Member Since: August-2009
Mr. S. Banerjee was Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, from August, 2007 till October 2008. In the Ministry of Tourism, Mr. Banerjee took several initiatives for upgrading infrastructure at important tourism destinations in India for improving visitor experience. He was instrumental in articulating India’s response to climate change in the tourism sector.
This response focused on sustainable tourism for promoting and preserving India’s environmental and cultural heritage with emphasis on inclusive growth. The ‘sustainable’ tourism route was showcased in the Tourism Ministry’s innovative Rural Tourism Project designed to strengthen disadvantaged but skilled rural artisan communities through support to capacity building and infrastructure, with particular emphasis on the role of women. International cooperation was an important focus that was promoted with the ‘India-China Year of Friendship Through Tourism’. China opened its tourism office in New Delhi in August 2007 and India’s fourteenth overseas tourism office was inaugurated at Beijing, China, in April 2008. Several initiatives were taken during Mr. Banerjee’s tenure to enhance cooperation between India and ASEAN countries in the field of tourism. Through the IBSA Summit, cooperation between India, Brazil and South Africa was strengthened with interaction of the travel trade and signing of a tripartite agreement on tourism. The Incredible India Campaign continued to win accolades. India, for the second consecutive year, was adjudged among the top two favourite destinations by the Conde Nast Traveller (U.K.). India won the PATA Grand Award for Marketing and World Travel Awards for World’s Leading Destination Marketing Campaign.
Prior to this, till July 2007, Mr. Banerjee was Director General (Acquisition) in the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. In this tenure, he institutionalised a monitoring system for capital acquisition schemes for effective utilisation of the Defence modernisation budget. He was instrumental in the formulation of the Defence Procurement Procedures 2005 and 2006. These documents, for the first time, included guidelines for ‘Defence Offsets’ and the ‘Make’ procedure that were designed to encourage development of the Indian Defence industry.
Before joining the Defence Ministry, Mr. Banerjee worked as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Urban Development from December, 1996 to February, 2002. In this tenure, he initiated reforms in the Urban Sector for making urban local bodies viable and efficient. The reforms included Municipal Accounts, formulation of a model Municipal Act, and guidelines for a regulatory framework for public-private partnerships.
Mr. Banerjee worked in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, from December, 1985 to May, 1991. As Joint Secretary (Marketing) in that Ministry, he dealt with the crisis that affected India’s oil supplies following the outbreak of the Gulf War in August, 1990.
Earlier in his career, Mr. Banerjee worked in the erstwhile State of Andhra Pradesh. He was Collector and District Magistrate of the important Districts of Krishna and Khammam and headed the Departments of Fisheries, Social Welfare and Civil Supplies.
After finishing his schooling at St. Joseph’s College, North Point, Darjeeling, in 1964, Mr. Banerjee joined St. Stephen’s College, University of Delhi, from where he received his Bachelor of Arts (Honours) and Master of Arts degrees in History in 1968 and 1970.
In 1971, Mr. Banerjee joined the Indian Administrative Service.
He received his Master’s Diploma (Public Administration) from the Indian Institute of Public Administration, New Delhi in 1992 and M. Phil degree in Social Sciences from the University of Panjab in the same year.
Mr. Banerjee was a Visiting Fellow in the Queen Elizabeth House, University of Oxford, U.K. (1995-1996) and in the National Institute of Urban Affairs, New Delhi (2002-2003).
Following his retirement from the Indian Administrative Service in 2008, Mr. Banerjee chaired the Committee constituted by the Ministry of Finance in 2009 to review the processes, practices and procedures followed for the procurement and finalisation of security sensitive items relating to currency. The report of this Committee was submitted to the Union Finance Ministry on March 31, 2010. Mr. Banerjee was a member of the Vigilance Advisory Council of the Central Vigilance Commission and the Advisory Board of the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies, a professional research institute under the Ministry of Defence. Mr. Banerjee was also appointed Independent External Monitor for the Ministries of Defence and Food Processing Industries.
Currently, Mr. Banerjee is an Independent Director on the Board of ITC Ltd.
C-2/97, Sector 36,
Noida-201301, U.P.
Member Since: August-2010
He has served the Government of India in various capacities in his distinguished career as an Officer of the Indian Administrative Service.
In his career, he has served as Secretary, Central Vigilance Commission, Secretary & Chairperson of National Authority, Chemical Weapons Convention. He retired as Union Secretary to the Government of India, Ministry of Tourism. He headed a Committee constituted by the Ministry of Environment and Forests to formulate guidelines for forest and wildlife eco-tourism in the country. He has served as Member on the Ethics Committee of Standing Conference of Public Enterprises, as Chairman, Advisory Committee on World Heritage Matters, Ministry of Culture, as a Part-time Non-official Director on the Board of SAIL and as Chairman, Committee for National Heritage Sites under the aegis of Ministry of Culture. Currently he is serving as the Secretary General, WTTC India Initiative.
E – 5 Surendra Garden,
Hoshangabad Road,
Bopal, MP – 462043
Member Since: August-2013
Retired as the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests & Chief Wildlife Warden of Madhya Pradesh, India, after thirty five years in the Indian Forest Service (IFS). Twelve years in policy formulation and implementation.
Worked for 7 years as protected area manager, seven years as forestry manager and five years as a scientist at the Wildlife Institute of India (WII). Developed and implemented internationally funded projects on ecodevelopment planning, protected area management and scientific research for biodiversity conservation, and teaching participatory approaches to forestry and wildlife managers. Managed Indo-US collaboration project on the development of the Wildlife Institute of India; Worked as Additional Director Project Monitoring and Evaluation (PME) (later as Director) in an integrated forestry project, the Madhya Forestry Project, financed by the World Bank/IDA. Worked as an Advisor to the Madhya Pradesh Ecotourism Development Board. FAO/UNDP consultancy in protected area management planning. Taught a course in ecodevelopment and participatory planning in Sri Lanka for FAO/UNDP. Worked as a wildlife crime control and legal reforms consultant and as team leader of an international consulting group for the preparation of 20-year forestry master plan for Bangladesh on World Bank funded projects.
Developed an operational framework and 20-year strategic plan for South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network (SAWEN).
Member of the international consulting group tasked with the designing of a world class tiger safari and rescue centre outside Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve.
Drafted the India Ecotourism Policy on behalf of the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) for submission to the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change.
Former Secretary, Ministry of Tourism
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- Member, Managing Committee of National Apex Body of PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry
- Honorary Member, Tourism Committee, PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry
- OYO – as a Member (Independent Expert) of Partner Advisory Council
- Member of CII National Committee on Tourism & Hospitality
- Adviser to FICCI Medical Value Travel Committee 2019
- Executive Member of India Cruise Lines Association (InCLA)
- Member, Board of Trustees, Foundation for Aviation & Sustainable Tourism (FAST)
- Honorary Member, Ecotourism Society of India (ESOI)
C-31, Ground Floor, Panchsheel Enclave, New Delhi-110017
Member Since: May 2018
Mr. Vinod Zutshi joined Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1982 and belonged to Rajasthan Cadre. He superannuated in February, 2017 at the post of Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India. Mr. Zutshi has 35 Years of experience in Central Government and Government of Rajasthan with long experience and exposure in the fields of Tourism, Public Policy & Administration, Management and Election & Democratic Governance.
Mr. Zutshi served as Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India between 2015 to 2017. He also held the following positions in Tourism Sector at National Level:
Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Govt. of India; Vice Chairman, National Tourism Advisory Council, India; Chairman PATA Chapter India; Board Member, PATA; Chairman, NCHMCT; Chairman, Board of Governors, IHM, Pusa; and Vice Chairman, Board of Governors, IITTM;
He held many key positions in Tourism Sector in the State of Rajasthan namely, Secretary, Tourism, Govt. of Rajasthan; Secretary, Civil Aviation, Govt. of Rajasthan; Commissioner, Tourism, Govt. of Rajasthan; Chairman & Managing Director, Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation; and CMD, Rajasthan State Hotels Corporation.
Vinod Zutshi is now a Consultant & Advisor in Travel and Tourism for more than two years and is based in Delhi.
Some of the key organisations with which Mr. Zutshi is currently associated as Consultant / Advisor/Honorary Member are:
Mr. Zutshi is an Alumni of Harvard Kennedy School and MBA from Faculty of Management Studies, Delhi University. He is also an Advocate enrolled with Bar Council of Delhi.
Mr. Zutshi is also a Resource Person in the area of Travel and Tourism. In the recent past He has visited as Guest Speaker at IAS Academy, LBSNAA, Mussoorie; Indian Institute of Public Administration; Central Universities of Banaras Hindu University, Garhwal University and University of Pondicherry; Amity University, Noida; IITTM, Bhubaneswar and Jamia Millia University.
Mr. Vinod Zutshi has travelled far and wide during his long career in various capacities. He has travelled to USA, UK, Germany, France, Australia, Azerbaijan, Italy, Netherlands, Austria, Spain, Jamaica, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, China, Hong Kong, Turkey, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Japan and Bangladesh.
Member Since: July 2020
An alumnus of IIM Ahmedabad, Harvard University, and Fellow of the British Council of the University of Sussex, UK, Dr. Lalit Pawar joined the Indian Administrative Services in 1979 as an IAS officer from the Rajasthan cadre. A PhD in tourism he holds an august space at the RTSOI guiding the council with its various initiatives. During his tenure as an IAS officer, Dr. Panwar, has held various positions in the government of Rajasthan. He was also heading the India Tourism Development Corporation as Chairman and was a Secretary Ministry of Tourism from 2014-15.
During his tenure, Dr. Panwar also is credited with many awards and accolades, notable ones being the “Best Collector Award (as District Collector, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan)in 1987, ‘’National Tourism Award as Chairman and MD, India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC)”. His state, Rajasthan, won the award for promoting tourism, at the National Level from the Ministry of Tourism. Dr. Panwar was also awarded the ‘’Pride of Hospitality Industry award by the Journalist Association of India’’ and The Ashok Hotel won the ‘’Best Hotel for Cuisine & Services’’ accorded by Pacific Asia Travel Writers Association (PATWA) at ITB, Berlin, under his leadership. He is also a recipient of the national hospitality education Award 2010-11 by the Ministry of Tourism, Govt. of India, in recognition of outstanding contribution towards Skill Development Initiatives.
Based in Jaipur, he has also founded the Vivekanand Global University in Jaipur and is presently associated with them as a chairperson. He continues his association with the Government of India, lending his learnings and expertise in Tourism with Niti Aygo as is also a member Lokpal Search Committee.
An avid Yoga practitioner, Dr. Panwar is an out of the box thinker and has traveled widely, covering almost all Indian states and 30 countries across the globe. His mission in life is public service, developing education and skills in rural areas, and promoting heritage and Tourism Management.
Member Since: July 2021
Rathi Vinay Jha, An IAS (Indian Administrative Service) Officer of the 1967 batch, Rathi retired as the Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India in 2004.
Prior to that she was Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Commerce and CMD of the India Trade Promotion Organisation ( ITPO) She has held many positions related to the Textiles sector. She was the founder Director of NIFT from 1987-93. She spent a year on deputation with the Confederation of Indian Industry as an Advisor in 1996.
After serving the government she was the Secretary General of the World Travel and Tourism Council India, and Director General of the Fashion Design Council of India. She was a Member of the NIFT Board of Governors and Chairman of the Durgabai Deshmukh College for Visually Impaired.
In the last twenty years she has been on the Boards of a number of NGO’s across India . Currently she is a Trustee/ Member with the Governing bodies of the of Indian Foundation for Arts ( IFA ), Madras Craft Foundation ( MCF ), Sasakawa Foundation, Commitment to Kashmir Foundation , Indira Gandhi National Center for Arts and the Center for Organisation Development in Hyderabad. She is Chair of the Plan International India, a lead NGO working for gender equality and girls empowerment .
Member Since: July 2021
Dr. Misra was Secretary to the Government of India, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs and later Chairman of the Staff Selection Commission (SSC). She has worked in various capacities in the Government of India and in the Government of Gujarat. During her career, she was posted in the remote area of Kutch where she imbibed the love for natural heritage and the deep aspects of cultural heritage, particularly the vibrant craft traditions of the region. She was posted in the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism for a considerable period of time and was the Commissioner for Tourism in the State of Gujarat.
Dr. Misra is presently the Member-Secretary of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) which is a unique, premiere national body, dedicated to the conservation of Indian Heritage, encompassing built, natural, intangible, art and material heritage and the myriad aspects of heritage including outreach and heritage education. INTACH has set-up a Heritage Tourism Division, the INTACH Heritage Academy and INTACH Knowledge Centre under her initiative. Her total experience in the tourism and culture field span for more than 22 years. The overall experience which she garnered in the field and the policy arena resulted in a deep involvement in heritage and tourism issues.
Dr. Misra received her Ph.D. from the Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi on “The impact of Tourism on Sustainable Development – the Asian Perspective”. She has a Post Graduation in Economics from the University of Bombay and a Post Graduation Diploma in Training and Development from the University of Manchester. She has an M. Phil degree in Public Administration from the University of Punjab. She has contributed many articles to various journals and publications.
Member Since: Nov 2022
Bittu Sahgal is the Founder of the Sanctuary Nature Foundation, Editor of Sanctuary Asia, India’s first and largest circulating wildlife and ecology magazine (1981) and Founder-Editor of Sanctuary Cub (1984), India’s oldest and only wildlife magazine for children. He was closely involved with Project Tiger since its inception in the 1970s, and has spent over four decades writing about and calling attention to conservation issues in books, magazines and newspapers in both English and regional languages. He has also produced 30 wildlife documentaries, led national and international environmental campaigns across media platforms, including social media. He created Kids for Tigers, a conservation programme for school children that has reached over a million children and has been run successfully for almost two decades.
Bittu has served on a range of government and nongovernment organisation boards and committees over the last 30 years, including the National Board for Wildlife (Government of India), the IUCN (World Conservation Union), The Wild Foundation (U.S.A) and the Expert Appraisal Committee for Infrastructure, Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India.
He works with policymakers, social workers, economists and scientists at the tri-junction of biodiversity, climate change and economics, speaking at national and international platforms in support of wilderness conservation while continuing to spearhead the work of the Sanctuary Nature Foundation.
Latika is a Conservation Ecologist and Photographer. With a masters on Elephant-Human Conflict resolution and a Doctorate on Tiger Conservation and Management from the University of Oxford, she is the one of the first Indian scientists to work on Tigers, and the first Indian with a doctorate on tiger conservation. She has lived and worked in Central India for about three decades now. An author, photographer, diver, and hotelier, she is an intrepid traveller with a passion for the outdoors and has always lived a life intimately connected with animals. She now focuses on using photography and writing as tools to raise conservation awareness alongside continuing efforts for wildlife conservation at the grass roots level in India. Her life and work has been featured on National Geographic television in a documentary called ‘The Tiger Princess’ and on the Discovery Channel in the program ‘Wild Things’. She has contributed to films like ‘Sita’s Story’ and a ‘Tale of Two Tigers’ on the BBC, as well as the National Geographic Magazine cover story on tigers for the ‘Year of the Tiger’ special in 2000. She has authored two coffee table books – Hidden India and Omo. Her work has been featured in several other books. She has exhibited at the largest exhibition on Tigers “The Eye of the Tiger”, with 37 of the world’s top Wildlife Photographers at the Royal Albert Hall, London. She is a member of Wildlife Photographers United and has contributed to the Series on Remembering Wildlife and her photograph was a part of the Event on the Great Apes at the Royal Geographical Society, London. She has held two solo exhibitions on primarily portrait photography from Ethiopia in 2018. She was awarded the Photographer for a cause for the year 2019 by T+L India and South-East Asia. She has been awarded by ATOI, is a UN Karmaveer Maharatna awardee and is a Chevening Scholar.
Arjun Mathur is an International Emmy nominated, British-born, Indian actor. He was trained by Barry John in New Delhi, India and at The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute, New York. Before he started acting, he worked as an Assistant Director on several big-budget Indian films such as ‘Bunty Aur Babli’ and ‘Rang De Basanti (Paint It Yellow)’.
Arjun was discovered by Mira Nair and Farhan Akhtar simultaneously, through their respective short films, ‘Migration’ and ‘Positive’ for the ‘Aids Jaago’ project, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, 2007. This was followed by several remarkable performances in mainstream Indian films like ‘Luck By Chance’, ‘My Name Is Khan’ and ‘Ankur Arora Murder Case’, as well as critically acclaimed independent films like ‘Barah Aana’, ‘Coffee Bloom’, the National-Award winning ‘I Am’ and the English language film, ‘Fireflies’, for which he received a Best Actor nomination at the New York Indian Film Festival, 2013.
In 2012, he garnered praise for the youth-centric mini-series, ‘Bring On The Night’, which was the first of it’s kind produced in India, before the streaming revolution took hold. Arjun has appeared in numerous television commercials and was a brand-ambassador for the leading Indian lifestyle brand, ‘Godrej’ from 2013 till 2016. He was also seen in Channel 4’s British drama series, ‘Indian Summers’ as the volatile nationalist, ‘Naresh Banerjee’. The 2018 Netflix original film, ‘Brij Mohan Amar Rahe (Long Live Brij Mohan)’ saw Arjun step away from his image and impress audiences and critics as an underwear salesman from Delhi, who tries to fake his own death and fails miserably.
In 2019, Arjun played the lead in Zoya Akhtar’s Amazon original series, ‘Made In Heaven’ and received a nomination in the ‘Best Performance by an Actor’ category at the International Emmy Awards 2020, for his nuanced portrayal of a gay man living in urban India at a time when homosexuality was illegal. The show itself received worldwide audience and critical acclaim.
He was last seen in ‘The Gone Game’, a suspense thriller series that was set, conceived, shot and released during the lockdown in 2020 and the murder mystery feature-film, ‘Silence’.
He will next be seen in second seasons of ‘Made In Heaven’ and ‘The Gone Game’ as well as ‘U-Special’ – the first Indian series for the digital platform ‘Lionsgate Play’.
- U-26, A/6, Ground Floor, DLF, Phase – III, Gurugram – 122002
Member Since: November-2016
Shoba Mohan is the Founder Partner of RARE India, a company that has been promoting conservation and community based tourism with sustainability as a keystone value for tourism and hospitality. She sits on board associations like RTSOI, TTC, IAHRC etc. and promotes the idea that sustainable travel is future ready and luxury has to be redefined around parameters that believe in protection and preservation of the planet.
About RARE India: RARE India is a collection of some of the finest boutique hotels with its heart set around conscious luxury travel – palace stays, wildlife life lodges, homestays and retreats of the sub-continent. We believe that ‘Meaning is the new luxury’ and our community is an inclusive list of experiential hotels and hospitality concepts with a quality and style quotient that appeal to the world traveller, believe in working with the community while being personal and high on service. Our hotels are often set away from the repetitive and regular routes, aspire to tread softly on the land they are set in and preserve the innocence of the destination. In short, you have a ‘RARE’ collection of hotels and concepts that offer the perfect immersive experience to the evolved traveller. Founded by Shoba Mohan, RARE India’s list comprises a unique collection of hotels spanning three countries – India, Nepal & Bhutan, 17 States in India alone and 55 hotel brands.
Founder & Managing Director,
Ibex Expeditions Pvt. Ltd.
- Member Since: January-2008
Explorer, Mountaineer, Environmentalist, Adventure travel & Eco tourism specialist.
Mandip has over 35 years of climbing and exploration experience in India and other parts of the world. He has instructed at outdoor schools in Scotland and Wales, climbed in the Alps and made first ascents in the Indian Himalaya .
The Limca Book of records nominated him ‘India’s most versatile Expeditioner ‘. He was conferred the Ness Award for expeditions and explorations by the Royal Geographical Society, London.
In 1989 at the ICEWALK International Students Expedition in the Canadian Arctic near the North Pole, he studied environmental impacts of pollutants in the ice and the growing ozone hole, under the auspices of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
In 2002, the year of the Mountains, he participated in an Indo Pakistan Friendship expedition in the Swiss Alps under the IUCN and UIAA and has been campaigning to save the Siachen Glacier from environmental degradation due to the two armies present.
In 2007 , he undertook a ecotourism river expedition with the Government , in the state of Madhya Pradesh to try and convert bandits into tourism guides and naturalists in this biodiverse rich but bandit ridden area.
Mandip Singh Soin FRGS , is the Founder and Managing Director of Ibex Expeditions Private Limited. Established in 1979, Ibex is a specialist tourism company in India that specializes in Ecotourism, Adventure, Luxury & Safari Travel.
Ibex received the Green Globe Distinction Award & the PATA Gold Award in 1999 for Outstanding Environmental Achievements. The World Travel Environmental Company Award in 2000 and in 2001 they received the National Award of Excellence by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India for being the most environmentally friendly organisation .
He has edited the four issues of the Environment & Eco Tourism handbook published by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
He lectures worldwide on responsible and ecologically sound tourism and is deeply committed to being a good trustee of this earth.
His other passions, when not on expedition, are listening to Beethoven, fly fishing, indulging in puns, flipping omlettes to perfection and for relaxation he takes the occasional bungee.
MD,
CGH Earth Hotels
- Member Since: January 2008
Jose Dominic has been heading CGH Earth (formerly Casino Group of Hotels) as its Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director from 1978 to 2017.
Casino Hotel started by Dominic Joseph in 1957, grew into a group of Hotels, globally and nationally acknowledged for its unique model under Jose Dominic’s leadership.
In 1988, the group won the contract to reconstruct and operate the Bangaram Island Resort on Bangaram Island in Lakshadweep islands. The model adopted pioneering for its time put the Lakshadweep on the global tourism map and became the precursor of a new model of tourism introduced by the group in Kerala then known as Casino Group of Hotels. Beginning with Spice Village in Thekkady in 1991 was followed by several award winning hotels such as Coconut Lagoon in Kumarakom in 1993, Marari Beach in 1996 and the Brunton Boatyard in 1998 and thereafter best in class facilities for Ayurveda and Yoga and recently Prakriti Chikiktsa.
The model rested on the foundations of sustainability, social inclusion and the local ethos. The demonstrative success of this model resulted in other entrepreneurs adopting the model that eventually gave to Kerala the leadership to adopt Responsible Tourism as the development strategy. Today tourism represents for Kerala a key engine of development based on Responsible Tourism for which Kerala Tourism has now won the prestigious UNWTO Ulysses Award.
In recognition of his efforts the Ministry of Tourism, in the year 2003 gave a Special Commendation Award to Mr. Jose Dominic for Resort Development. Jose Dominic was also the founder President in the year 2000 of Kerala Travel Mart which has emerged as one of India’s most significant tourism marketing event. He has been the recipient of several awards including Management Leadership Award from Kerala Management Association, Lifetime Achievement Honour form Times of India group, Aathithya Ratna Award from Hotel Investment Forum, Award for “Business Excellence leading to Development of society at large” from Manappuram Finance, Sustainable Person of the year Award, Hotelier Award from UTC, Business Excellence from D.C. Books, Entrepreneurship Award from TiE Kerala, Business Reliability Award from Reporter Channel, Game Changer Award from Durga Das Publication to name some.
The group renowned for its sustainability initiatives has received the prestigious Green Globe Award from World Travel Mart, several awards from Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) for environment conservation. Also the hotels of the group have been repeatedly recipient of Excellence in Tourism Award from Government of India, Ministry of Tourism as well as from the Government of Kerala.
Jose Dominic has served on several National and State advisory panels on tourism of the Government and industry bodies. Some of these include National Tourism Advisory Council of the Government of India and the Government of Kerala, Tourism Think Tank of Government of India, Member – Expert Panel on Tourism of ASSOCHAM (Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India, and CII (Confederation of Indian Industry) etc. He has been invited to speak at major conferences and seminars on Tourism including Conference on Tourism Taxation organized by World Tourism Organization, Colloquium of Conservation and Heritage Tourism organized by the British Council. He has also presented papers on Sustainable Tourism at the Annual Convention of the Indian Association of Tour Operators.
Jose Dominic is the Founder President of Kerala Travel Mart and founder member of the Eco Tourism Society of India. He has been closely associated with the conservation movement and serves as the Co-convener of INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage). He was the past President of TiE – Kerala Chapter, was the President of the Cochin Chamber of Commerce and was Chairman of CII, Kerala region. Jose Dominic is presently member of the WTM Responsible Tourism Advisory Panel, member of National Tourism Advisory Council – Government of India and member of Kerala State Tourism Advisory Panel. He is also in the Board of Governors of Xavier Institute of Management and Entrepreneurship (XIME) – Kochi.
Mr. Jose Dominic Kuruvinakunnel, hails from Pala, Kerala, is a Chartered Accountant by qualification and graduate in Commerce from Loyola College, Chennai.
MD,
Travel Corporation India
- Tower B, Delta Square, M.G. Road,
Sector 25, Gurgaon 122001, Haryana,
National Capital Region of Delhi, India
Member Since: January 2014
Dipak Deva’s journey in the travel industry began thirty years ago, as a junior staff member in a travel company in Jaipur. He then moved on to become the Sales & Marketing Head of TCI, built Distant Frontiers into a boutique company focussed on experiential travel, which was aquired by Kuoni Switzerland in the year 2008. Since then he has led the biggest, and most-awarded, inbound travel company in the country. Dipak’s deep understanding of India’s tourism potential, source markets and their needs, ability to build relationships with partners, and drive technology-led initiatives, has played an important role in making the company the largest inbound tourism organisation in the country.
Dipak Deva is currently the Managing Director of Travel Corporation India Ltd., a market leader for inbound tourism from UK, Germany, France, Russia, Spain, Portugal and Japan. The company owns leading international brands such as Sita, Distant Frontiers, Go Vacations (JV with Europe’s DER Touristik).
As one of the industry veterans, Dipak strongly supports the idea of ‘Inclusive Tourism’ via NGO’s that work with women from some of the most marginalised sections of society. He is also a member of the governing council of Responsible Tourism Society of India, which helps promote environmentally responsible and sustainable practices in the industry. Dipak Deva is also a member of the National Tourism Advisory Council, Ministry of Tourism.
CEO,
A Sharma Associates
Member Since: January 2014
Prof. Anil Sharma (Adjunct Faculty, IIT Rooeki) began his career as a young architect with the firm of “Bhardwaj and Bhardwaj Associates”, in New Delhi from 1982 to 1984. He subsequently joined the multi-national firm of “Kabil and Associates” at New Delhi and then proceeded to gain an invaluable, experience with the firm of “Schooly Caldwell Associates”, in Columbus, Ohio at the United States of America.
Returning to India, after the American experience, with a high level of self-confidence, Anil Sharma embarked on his enterprise of private professional practice.
Mr. Anil Sharma as a private professional Architect, now with well over 30 years of wide experience in designing multi star hotels (www.asharma.com), which are climate responsive & energy efficient. He has designed more than 70 hotels all over India in every climatic zone from Cold climate of Gulmarg to Hot & Dry climate of Hyderabad. He adopts latest materials & technology to achieve operational efficiency & to reduce carbon emissions. All his latest designs are LEED / IGBC compliant and certified. The hotel “Khyber, Gulmarg” is the most awarded hotel by “Coinde Nast” and various other travel platforms of repute.
Apart from his professional duties as an Architect, he has balanced his work with teaching responsibilities, as visiting expert and faculty member to the following institutions of repute:
(1) “Indian Institute of Technology”, Roorkee
(2) “The School of Planning & Architecture”, Bhopal
(3) “The School of Planning & Architecture”, New Delhi
(3) “Indira Gandhi Technical University for Women”, Kashmiree Gate, New Delhi.
Mr. Anil Sharma and his projects have been recipient of the following awards:
1. His first hotel project; “Holiday Inn”, Pune won the Best hotel of the year in Asia Pacific Region in the year 1994.
2. In the year 2013 another hotel designed by Mr. Sharma, “Hotel Khyber” in Gulmarg, was awarded “Best Luxury Hotel of the world”.
3. In the year 2014 Mr. Sharma, was awarded “The Most Innovative Hotel Design Architect” for Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Hyderabad at the Hoteliers Summit held in Mumbai.
4. “Taj Hotel and Convention Center, Agra” won “Best Architectural Design Hotel” in “Time2Leap awards 2019” at Hyatt Pune.
5. “Club Babylon, Ahemedabad”, was awarded “Most Sustainable Architectural Design in Hospitality” in Time2Leap awards 2019” at Hyatt Pune.
Mr. Anil Sharma has been the member of National Jury Members for various Architecture Design Awards being run by A+D and Archi-design.
In the year 2014, Mr. Sharma was invited to participate as a Jury Member of the evaluation committee for the IIT Roorkee-Campus Extension meetings for their 330 Cr. expansion project. He was also a jury member for the development of the MNIT campus at Jaipur.
Mr. Anil Sharma, has taken the initiative in leadership role in organizing and hosting the annual “Hi-Aim” Conference that is a collective assembly of (1) Hospitality Industry leaders (2) their Architects, (3) Interior Designers and (4) Managers. This year, “Hi-Aim” held its fifth annual conference at Colombo, Sri Lanka in the month of March. (www.hi-aim.org)
Mr. Anil Sharma has been deeply committed to his Alma Mater, and has already made several inputs and contribution for taking the revered institution to higher level value goals and achievements.
Mr. Sharma has been instrumental in formulation of the following annual awards at the awards for students at the IIT Roorkee:
1. The Manoj Jain memorial award for the student with best “Human Values”
2. The R.P. Singh memorial award for the “best student of Architecture” at the IIT Roorkee.
Mr. Anil Sharma, has provided a whole hearted support to the CSR initiative “Anushruti” and has helped in organizing the fund-raising event at Greater Noida campus of IIT Roorkee in 2015.
Mr. Sharma has always been keen on sharing his knowledge through classroom teaching, and technical project co-ordination meetings, he has always felt responsible for imparting the rightful knowledge. Many clients, consultants’ even specialists approach Mr. Sharma for his suggestions and technical expert knowledge that he has gained through hard work and experiences of more than 35 years in the Industry.
He has recently accepted the role of an Adjunct Professor, at IIT Roorkee, and has been actively involved in not only improving the curriculum, but also acting as External Expert for Institutions of Architecture at I.I.T Roorkee, Uttrakhand, and the School of Planning & Architecture, New Delhi for their B. Arch & M. Arch Programs as also the “Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University for Women” as Consulting Architect, in-charge of establishing the Department of Architecture.
He has also taken up assignments as a visiting faculty member in I.I.T Roorkee for conducting semester wise design studio for 2nd year to 5th year students; he has also been part of the evaluation of thesis seminars.
He has also been given charge to conduct the stage-by-stage thesis projects of B. Arch V year students as an External Expert of the Jury
His lecture on “My Discovery of Architecture” in I.I.T Roorkee in the month of May 2015 was very well received by the students and the entire Department of Architecture and Planning at IIT Roorkee.
- Akanksha Garg started her entrepreneurial foray into the travel industry at the age of 18. Since the very beginning she has championed sustainable tourism as one of her guiding business principles, evident in all her operations even after all of these years.
- Governing Council Member of The Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI)
- Committee Member of the Responsible Tourism Wing of The Adventure Tour Operators of India (ATOAI)
- CII –Eastern Region Tourism Subcommittee Member
- Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board Stakeholder Advisor
- Ex. West Bengal Tourism Advisory Committee
- Ex. CII – National Tourism Committee Member
- Ex. Managing Committee Member of Hotel and Restaurant Association of Eastern India (HRAEI)
Akanksha’s debut project was the Sunderban Tiger Camp, established in 2004, followed by The Riverwood Forest Retreat in Dooars, West Bengal in 2008 and The Riverwood Forest Retreat in Pench National Park, Madhya Pradesh in 2013. Current expansion plans include setting up camps in the tiger corridor of Madhya Pradesh. All these properties are a part of the Waxpol Hotels and Resorts hospitality brand, of which Akanksha is Executive Director and Founder.
Akanksha holds many prominent industry positions and serves as a thought leader. Some of the current and past positions include the below:
In the 2020 Covid-19 crisis she has led the industry preparedness through formulating safety and sanitization guidelines for the tourism industry.
In recognition of her efforts, Akanksha has won numerous high-profile tourism awards. In 2008, she was awarded the TiE Tiger Award for her tourism development initiatives in the Sundarbans, the Rotary Club Award for CSR and the East India Travel Awards ‘Face of the Future’ Award in 2016.
In 2019, Akanksha has been extensively featured as one of the Top Women Hoteliers in India and one of the favourite women in Hospitality around the world. Her conservation and sustainable tourism efforts have been featured in Green Hotels, TTJ Magazine, TravTalk, Responsibletourismindia.com and many more magazines and media.
Akanksha was recognised by India Leadership conclave as the Most Innovative and Promising Woman Hotelier 2019.
She continues to strive for the upliftment of the local people, sustainable development of wildlife destinations and woman empowerment. Her motto is “To uplift and empower locals and conserve wildlife habitats.”
Member Since: August 2022
Global Luxury Hospitality & Tourism Leader I Senior Partner HM Corp and Founder – One Rep Global
Chief Advisor – Leela Palace Hotels & Resorts I Board Member | Keynote Speaker I Angel Investor
Hemant Mediratta is an exemplary luxury hotelier with over three decades experience in the hospitality business. He is a seasoned professional with expertise in luxury hotel operations and sales and marketing across domestic as well as international markets. A passionate believer in the India story, Hemant has worked relentlessly over the years towards the growth of Indian tourism.
Hemant completed an outstanding and fulfilling 16-year tenure with Oberoi Hotels & Resorts in 2020. During this long association he played a significant role in, especially in his last position as Senior Vice President Sales, driving commercial excellence for the iconic hospitality group. His previous roles span successful terms in senior positions at globally acclaimed hotel groups like Hyatt International, IHG and The Park Hotels. A purveyor of luxury, with an invaluable background and hands-on experience in luxury hospitality, Hemant Mediratta has featured extensively in the media as a thought leader sharing a global perspective on luxury hospitality and travel industry trends. He is also a serial entrepreneur. Hemant has established and co-founded several successful brands which include Antara Cruises – India’s leading luxury river cruising company, Eleven Inc – a leading digital marketing agency in the luxury hospitality space; One Rep Global – a Sales, Marketing and PR organisation for Hotels, Travel, Luxury and Wellness brands from across the world.
A captivating orator, Hemant is passionate about public speaking and can often be found sharing his thoughts at educational institutions and corporate conferences, largely on motivation, leadership, luxury selling and entrepreneurial mindset. He is also on the governing board of Responsible Tourism Society of India, a non-profit organization with the aim to promote and ensure environmentally responsible and sustainable practices in the tourism industry.
Besides managing and inspiring teams, Hemant is an active angel investor with an interest in early-stage luxury and travel start-ups. He actively mentors new-age founders on product-market-fit, talent hiring and retention and on building a founder mindset for business success. Hemant’s social initiative, Mediratta Foundation, was established with the aim to empower individuals and enterprises in creating success driven and scalable businesses generating employment for many others in the process. The focus is on mentoring micro-entrepreneurs in urban areas, working on sustainable livelihood in rural areas, empowering women & girls through education, and provide quality health services for the poor and marginalized communities. Through a network of volunteers and panel of industry experts, Mediratta Foundation curates and executes programs and workshops to benefit the communities.
An avid reader, global traveller and an out of the box thinker, Hemant is interestingly also an aspiring alternative medicine healer.
Former CEO, BASS (IHG) HOTELS, South & West Asia. &
Former President, ITC WelcomHeritage Hotels
Director and Principal Advisor:
LORDS Hotels and Resorts
WOODBRIDGE Guest Homes
- Member Since: January-2008
RAKESH MATHUR is a Hospitality Industry professional with over forty-seven years of leadership experience in Indian and Global Hotel groups.
After schooling in Shimla and Graduation in Economics Honours from SRCC, Delhi, he joined Oberoi Hotels in 1973 as a Management Trainee and grew in the Industry and worked with Global and Multinational Hotel Organizations and became Executive Director of IHG ( then BASS ) Hotels for South and West Asia.
Rakesh’s passion with India’s Heritage, Culture and Environment started in 2001, when he took over as President of ITC WelcomHeritage Hotels, a Company launched under the Chairmanship of HH Maharaja Gaj Singh ji of Jodhpur to revive India’s BUILT Heritage through Tourism.
Since Heritage Properties are mostly in Rural areas, Rakesh Co-founded the Ecotourism Society of India, to spread awareness about sustainable tourism practices, and is its Current Honorary President.
Rakesh continues to contribute his experience and expertise as a Board member to the Indian Heritage Hotels Association, INTACH Tourism Committee, Auro University, Surat, (Tourism), and HI AIM as CHAIRMAN.
He is also Director and Principal Advisor to Lords Hotels and Resorts.
Apart from his professional affiliations, Rakesh is associated with several Industry and Philanthropic activities. He is recipient of The Karamveer Patra from ICONGO for pioneering the CODE OF CONDUCT for SAFE & HONOURABLE TOURISM , officially endorsed by UNODC and adopted by the Ministry of Tourism, and several awards for contributions to the Hospitality Industry.
He is a Paul Harris Member of the Rotary Club of Delhi Southend, Hon. President of Save the Children India (Delhi), and supports a personal Charitable Foundation engaged in poor and orphaned children’s health and education and women’s empowerment.
Rakesh is widely travelled, father of two sons and a daughter and two grand daughters, who all enjoy Photography, Arts, Cinema and Travel.
Jt. Managing Director,
Creative Travel Pvt. Ltd.
Member Since: January-2008
Rohit Kohli is Jt. Managing Director of the Creative Travel group. Established in 1977, Creative Travel is today considered to be one India’s largest independent, family owned Destination Management Companies. The other main business includes Signature Tours by Creative Travel, specializing in luxury outbound journeys; Plan it! meetings and conferences, a cutting edge PCO and corporate loyalty management company; and Jungle Sutra Wildlife Journeys, India’s first wildlife specialist DMC focusing on lesser known fauna of the subcontinent. The group also runs an Academy of Tourism.
Creative Travel is South Asia’s most recognised tour operator and has won many accolades including the prestigious National Awards regularly since 1979, multiple World Travel Awards, SITE Crystal Awards, PATA Gold awards etc.
Rohit is a hotelier by qualification, having graduated from a leading hotel management school and has initiated at some of the top luxury hotels in the country.
Rohit’s position at the group, aside from sharing overall management responsibilities, also includes management of the operations and business development functions of the organization. Rohit is also responsible for the strategic planning including expansion and new focus areas. The company has 20 offices around the world. One of Rohit’s key involvements is in the sustainability and responsible efforts of the organization through the Ram Kohli Foundation.
Rohit sits on the boards of several trade associations as part of his ‘volunteerism’ efforts. Some of them include being the first Secretary of Young Tourism Professionals (worldwide), the youngest Hony. Secretary of PATA India and formerly on the International board of PATA. Rohit also served as the India Chair for ICCA India, and a governing body member of Ecotourism Society of India, Rohit also serves on the Asia Pacific advisory boards of leading global hospitality chains.
- O-10, First Floor, Chittaranjan Park, NEW DELHI – 110019
Member Since: January-2008
Seema Bhatt has worked extensively on issues related to ecotourism, biodiversity and climate change. Her particular focus of work is on strengthening the links between conservation of biodiversity and livelihoods of local communities.
She views ecotourism as one such link and has coordinated two projects on ecotourism as the South Asia Coordinator for the USAID supported Biodiversity Conservation Network. Seema has since then worked extensively with various other ecotourism projects in India and other parts of South Asia. She has co-authored a book on Ecotourism Development in India published by the Cambridge University Press. Seema is a Fulbright Research Scholar and was based at the Center for Responsible Travel (CREST) in Washington DC where she explored the feasibility of ecotourism certification in India. She has since her return, been working on setting standards for ecotourism in India. Seema holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Studies from the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies. She is also at present the Honorary Vice President of the Ecotourism Society of India. Seema Bhatt is at present with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations.
Ecologist
Read MoreA802, Rachana Sayantara, Hazari Pahad, Nagpur, Maharastra – 440007
Member Since: May 2017
Born in an Armed Forces family, I was always hooked to the outdoors. I soon realised that birds and smaller mammals fascinated me the most. Simultaneously, I found that Adventure was always a part of life. So have ended up being an explorer, trekker, scuba diver, sky diver, river rafter, birdwatcher and a nomad for life! Local people and their customs, and nature itself have been my biggest teachers – and I keep trying to learn more at every step.
Founded one of the most popular wildlife and adventure camping organisations – Pugmarks, before selling it and moving to Maharashtra Forest Department at Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (earlier Melghat Tiger Reserve). My mandate is to work in the field of creating a better eco tourism experience for visitors.
I also work to create livelihood opportunities and then capacity-build the local forest neighbouring communities – enabling them to earn respectable incomes. They thereby become stakeholders in the process of conserving our beautiful wild spaces.
MD,
Indeco Hotels, Chennai
Member Since:
January-2008Mr. Steve Borgia is currently the Chairman & Managing Director of INDeco Leisure Hotels. INDeco is “INDIA ECOLOGY”, a tourism company with National interest. And also the only Indian Hotel group to win the distinguished “Global Eco Tourism Award”. His pioneering rural tourism in India mend the broken backbone of Indian villages has been one of his most significant contributions to TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT in India.
With basic education in Commerce, he specialized in Group Dynamics and Social Communication from CNRS – LYONS, France. Later, returned to India to do ground research in social communication for Rural Development.
Steve Borgia wears several caps. But all through carries the INDOLOGIST one. Whether at the UN, Government of India, Press, Films, Hotels or the Corporate, he moves beyond competition, finding a unique position. His companies and concepts are people centric. Creating INDeco Hotels Swamimalai, INDeco Hotels Mahabalipuram and INDeco’s Lake Forest Hotel, India’s unique heritage hotel is a landmark. Making these heritage hotels accommodate, fund & operate the Steve Borgia’s Indian Heritage Museum, is a Master Stroke born out of his acumen for Business and his concern for humanity at large. Highly committed to ecology and heritage, he holds office as VICE PRESIDENT in the INDIAN HERITAGE HOTELS ASSOCIATION. He is also the founding member of the RESPONSIBLE TOURISM SOCIETY OF INDIA (Formerly – Eco Tourism Society of India). CHAIRMAN OF THE RURALTOURISM SOCIETY OF INDIA. FOUNDER MEMBER of Association for Agri & Rural Tourism in India.
Peerzada Faiyaz Ahmed is a Tourism & Hospitality Industry professional with over forty years of experience in highly acclaimed Hotel Groups and in the Tourism Industry.
After schooling in Sainik School Chittorgarh, Rajasthan he attained proficiency in three foreign languages Russian, French Arabic and started his Hospitality career from Hotel Shahenshah palace in Srinagar, JKTDC and Air India Subsidiary Centaur Group of Hotels. He opted for Voluntary Retirement in 2007 and joined ITC Hotels in Ooty – Tamil Nadu. He also worked in close association for His Royal Highness the Maharaja of Mysore of the Wadiyar Family. He is in Travel Business exclusively since 2009
He also has been on the role of Institute of Hotel Management, Srinagar as an external Examiner since last 30 plus years.
He is responsible in introducing Ecotourism Society of India in the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and conducted workshops in Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. He is also the Convener for Responsible Tourism Society of India RTSOI for Kashmir, Jammu and Ladakh.
Peerzada’s tryst and passion with the nature, environment of Jammu & Kashmir and its safety concern made him and like-minded enthusiasts to start a trust under the name of Environmental Policy Group EPG. He is also the founder member of Nature University under the aegis of EPG. The Nature University is responsible to identify and demarcate the Triassic Fossil Park at Khunmoh which is believed to contain fossils dating back to 252 million years when the world’s first tsunami occurred. This scientific theory has been recognised by the Penn Dixie University of USA. They are planning an infrastructure there and dedicatee it to the Tourism as an additional tourist interest spot. The proposal is under active consideration with government.
He was elected as President TAAK in 2013. In his role as President of this esteemed association he maintained close contact with the members and the administration. Held various meetings, conferences and discussions to improve the tourism scenario in the erstwhile state of Jammu & Kashmir.
He took active role in reconstruction post 2014 floods as a member of Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries KCCI.
Wildlife and the wilderness has been a passion for Aly ever since childhood. This passion for wildlife inspired him to work with his family to set up and run Reni Pani Jungle Lodge, one of the finest wilderness lodges in India. At Reni Pani, Aly has curated and built on the wildlife and guiding experience since its inception and in this time his passion for wildlife has been instilled in the ethos of the lodge and its people. A trained naturalist and ornithologist, he has travelled across the country and has been involved with wildlife in various localities. His deep involvement with Satpura since his childhood has been a motivation to protect and conserve wildlife in this landscape. In line with this deep attachment, Aly and the team at Reni Pani have identified another location at the far south of the tiger reserve in Bori Sanctuary to set up a second wildlife lodge, called Bori Safari Lodge. Although the Bori Sanctuary has the distinguished accolade of being the oldest protected area in the country, in terms of tourism it is still very raw and upcoming adding to the element of adventure and discovery. This sanctuary also happens to be Aly’s first wildlife destination a long time ago when he was a little boy and since then he has gotten to know it very intimately.
Among other wildlife initiatives that Aly has undertaken is the ongoing camera trap studies in the
reserve forest area outside the park that revealed breeding population of several large carnivores like leopards, wild dogs and sloth bear and also the presence of a young male tiger. His passion for research and conservation has also taken him to Panna National Park where he worked with renowned small cat expert and scientist Shekhar Kolipaka for the Caracal Research and Conservation Project in 2014. Aly is also involved in leading wildlife expeditions both within India and abroad.
Samit Sawhny completed his ACA from the Institute of Chartered Accountants, England & Wales and his MBA (PGDM) from the Indian Institute of Ahmedabad in 1995. He then worked with Ernst & Young in London in the Capital Markets & Risk Management Group till the year 2000, with concurrent secondments to Morgan Stanley and Paribas in London and Warburg Dillon Read in Zurich.
With travel always being a guiding passion, Samit wrote a travelogue, “All the World’s a Spittoon” which was published by Penguin Books, India in 2003.
Samit founded the Barefoot Group in 2001, with an aim to promote sustainable tourism in the Andaman Islands. The organisation runs Barefoot at Havelock, an award-winning eco-retreat in the Andaman Islands and also operates various land and water-based adventure sports, including scuba diving, through Barefoot Scuba. Another branch of the group, Barefoot Holidays, is engaged in destination management activities in the Andaman Islands.
Samit has been interested in wildlife conservation and education and tries to make a difference as a Trustee of the Madras Crocodile Bank, Centre for Herpetology, which role he has held since 2007.
Our Supporters
RTSOI Members
Mr. Soman Pathi
Liaison & Nodal Officer, Gujarat Tourism
- O/o Government of Gujarat
A/6, State Emporia Building
Baba Kharak Singh Marg,
New Delhi – 110001
Member Since: December-2014
Mr. Yuvraj Padole
Dy Director Events & Marketing
- Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, 6th Floor, Lily Trade Wing (above D Mart), Jehangirabad, Bhopal – 462008
Member Since: October 2019
Ms Effat Ara
Managing Director
Mr. Junaid Wahab Khan
Manager – Marketing & Brand Development
- 2nd Floor, Udyog Bhawan, Telibandha Ring Rd, Shyam Nagar, Raipur, Chhattisgarh 492006
Member Since: January 2020
Ms. Vineeta Dixit
Head Public Policy India
- 241 Udyog Vihar Phase 1, Gurgaon 122001, Haryana, India
Member Since: January 2020
Syed Junaid Altaf
M. D.
Syed Owais Altaf
Director & Head – Strategic Alliances
Shweta Verma
AGM – Business Development
- Plot No 1, First Floor, Kehar Singh Estate, Western Marg Lane No. 2, Saket, New Delhi – 110030
E: owaisaltaf@fil.net.in, shwetaverma_empyrean@fil.net.in
Member Since: September-2020
Deep Kalra
Founder & Group EC
Yuvaraj Srivastava
Chief HR Officer
Manavi Bharadwaj
Sustainability Lead
Anisha Narula
CSR Lead
Rajneesh
Director – Administration & Facilities
- Tower B, DLF Building No. 5, DLF Cyber City, DLF Phase -2, Sector 24, Gurgaon – 122002
E: dk@makemytrip.com, yuvi@makemytrip.com, Manavi.bhardwaj@makemytrip.com, anisha.narula@go-mmt.com, rajneesh.sharma@go.mmt.com
Member Since: January-2021
Mr. S.S. Rajpoot
Chief Executive Officer
- A Wing, Urja Bhawan,Link Road No.2, Shivaji Nagar,BHOPAL 462016 (M.P.)
Member Since: October-2009
Mr. O.V. Choudhary
Chief General Manager
- Paryatan Bhawan, Bhadbhada Road
BHOPAL 462 003 (M.P.)
Member Since: March-2011
Mr. Zaffar Ahmad Bhat
Secretary to Govt., Dept. of Tourism & Culture
- Commissioner / Secretary to Govt.
Tourism & Culture Department
Civil Secretariat
Government of Jammu & Kashmir
Jammu 180001 (Nov – April)
Commissioner / Secretary to Govt.
Tourism & Culture Department
Civil Secretariat
Government of Jammu & Kashmir
Srinagar 190001 (May – October)
Member Since: April-2010
Mr. Girish Shankar
Managing Director
- SCOPE Complex
Core 8 (6th floor)
7, Lodhi Road
New Delhi 110 003
Member Since: October-2010
Mr. S Kandan
Managing Director
- Tamilnadu Tourism Complex, No. 2 Wallajah Salai, Chennai – 600002
Member Since: February-2012
- Smt. Chandana Khan IAS
Special Chief Secretary (T)
D Block, 1st Floor
A. P. Secretariat
Hyderabad – 500022
Andhra Pradesh
Member Since: January-2014
Mr. Dipak Deva
MD
- Tower B, Delta Square
M. G. Road, Sector – 25
Gurgaon – 122001
Haryana
Member Since: January-2014
Mr. Sanjeev Sethi
Manager – Trade Representative
- ITC Green Centre, 10 Institutional Area, Sec- 32, Gurugram – 122001
Member Since: September-2020
Mr. Ashwini Khurana
President
• Close to 300 acres, Karma Lakelands, is an eco-responsible Golf Resort with luxury residences.
• Designed by Phil Ryan, Pacific Coast Design, Melbourne, Australia.
• Recipient of India’s most “Eco-Friendly Golf Course 2016 Award” by Golf Digest.
• Over 2 lac plants and trees planted to make Karma a beautiful sanctuary.
• Luxurious, well-appointed rooms for short and long-term stays across Karma Lakelands and Karma Chalets – our boutique hotel. Our villas, have become the preferred residential choice for those looking for a clean, green and responsible living environment.
• Klub Karma: A 1,00,000 Sq. Ft. Venue offering The Grand Ball Room, indoor and outdoor spaces supported by multiple F&B outlets and High-end destination for weddings, Golf tournaments and corporate retreats.
• We believe in nature and responsible living, where luxury is thoughtful rather than a wasteful process. The Environmental initiatives at Karma Lakelands are: Water Harvesting, Bio-Composting, Organic Agro, Bee Farming, Solar Energy. The whole campus is a strict No Honking Zone – The Guards respond to sight not sound.
K Villas, 5 Green Avenue, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi – 110070
Member Since: September-2020
Ms. Poonam Kaura
Partner
Government and Public Sector Advisory
Read More
- Nangia Andersen LLP is a trusted partner for developing and managing sustainable and responsible tourism opportunities that delivers impact consulting services, project structuring and designing. Their approach is in leveraging their global presence and local understanding, and strong knowledge base delivered through a dedicated government consulting team of qualified professionals with national and international experience in tourism and cultural services.
Nangia Andersen is known for offering consultancy services to facilitate synergy of policies, initiatives, and activities at the national and state level in tourism and allied sectors. They have shown their proficiencies through their collaborative studies with FICCI in creating detailed reports on “Tourism Investment Potential 2021”, “Rebuilding Tourism for the Future 2022” and “Outbound Travel and Tourism – An Opportunity Untapped”, where it highlights the gravity of Indian tourism industry and profiles a framework for building a more sustainable and responsible tourism experience for Indian tourists & travellers.
Nangia Andersen collaborates with Central and State government departments/agencies, local communities, and other stakeholders responsible for sustainable tourism. The company has delivered a plethora of assignments in the areas of tourism and government & public sector advisory. Some of the key clients include the Ministry of Tourism, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), Invest India, Hazaribagh Municipal Corporation, Directorate of Industries & Enterprise Promotion Government of Uttar Pradesh, UP Industrial Consultants Limited, Moradabad Smart City Limited, Department of Urban Development & Housing Arunachal Pradesh and Jharkhand and Rajasthan Skills and Livelihoods Development Corporation.
Quality of people is the cornerstone of their ability to serve clients. Team Nangia Andersen LLP brings strong credentials in Tourism and relevant fields. The leadership has successful track record of conceptualizing, launching, and managing tourism initiatives that have proved to be path breaking. It invests tremendous resources in identifying exceptional people, developing their skills, and creating an environment that fosters their growth as leaders.
A-109, Sector – 136,
Noida (Delhi NCR) 201304, India
Email: poonam.kaura@nangia-andersen.com, gov.info@nangia.com
Member Since: January-2022
Mr.Mohan Tickoo
Managing Director
Mr. Ravi Tickoo
Director Operation
- 805-806, Kirti Shikhar, Janakpuri District Centre, NEW DELHI 110 058
Member Since: May-2009
Recipient of the National Tourism Award for Best Adventure Tour Operator 2007-2008, KVT is a full-service adventure travel company based in New Delhi, India.
Founded in 1985, our activities and operations have greatly expanded and diversified over the last two decades to emerge as one of India’s leading providers of innovative and tailor-made adventure, culture and nature tours across India, Nepal and Bhutan. KVT’s growing catalogue of hard and soft adventure activities include amateur and skilled trekking programs, biking tours, climbing expeditions, wildlife tours, safaris and specialist multi-activity programs for students, families and individual explorers.
Committed to sustainable practices, a Responsible Tourism Policy is integrated into all aspects of our operations and decision-making. KVT is also directly involved in conservation initiatives and community programs in some of India’s key tourism impact areas.
Member: ATOAI, IATO, HET, PATA, TAAI, ECO TOURISM SOCIE
Mr. Mandip Singh Soin
Managing Director
Mrs. Anita Singh Soin
Director
E: mandip@ibexexpeditions.com, anitasoin@ibexexpeditions.com
Read More- 334, DLF Prime Towers, Okhla Phase – I, NEW DELHI 110020
Member Since: May-2009
Since 1979 people have entrusted their dreams to us. Ibex has been a leader in adventure travel, off-the-beaten-path holidays, wildlife safaris, family vacations, specialised journeys in luxury hotels and quaint lodges. Ibex arranges authentic, cultural immersive journeys; be it camping in the Himalaya or dining at a fine palace.
Established in 1979, Ibex is the receipent of the National Tourism Award as well as several International Awards such as PATA Gold, Green Globe Distinction, WTM Envoronmental company Award and is rated by National Geographic as one of the ‘Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth’.
Ibex has been a leader in adventure travel, off-the-beaten-path holidays, wildlife safaris, family vacations, specialised journeys in luxury hotels and quaint lodges. Ibex arranges authentic, cultural immersive journeys; be it camping in the Himalaya or dining at a fine palace.
Our own discoveries on roads less travelled have allowed us to create your very own, bespoke customised holiday so that your experience is an intimate account, taking in your own personal aesthetics and fascination.
Ibex Expeditions is committed to being environmental caretakers and it is our endeavour to maintain high standards of `minimum impact tourism’.
The Founder Mandip Singh Soin is also the Founding President of the Ecotourism Society of India (ESOI) and is a Trustee of the Himalyan Environment Trust (HET). He also serves as a board member of the global Adventure Travel Conservation Foundation (ATCF), an ambassodor for the Sustainable Travel International (STI) as well as a member of the Mountain Protection Commission of Union Internationale des Associations D’Alpinisme (UIAA).
Mr. Jose Dominic
M.D. & C.E.O.
E: officeofceo@cghearth.com
Read More- Casino Building, Willingdon Island, COCHIN 682003
Member Since: July-2009
CGH Earth is a five-decade long experiment in hospitality. Our properties both preserve and reflect the cultures they are born from. Nothing has been added that does not already belong. Because nothing more was necessary. The result, we like to believe, are experiences as immersive as they are authentic.
CGH Earth is a family run enterprise providing engaging experiences of True Keralan hospitality, Authentic Ayurveda & Rich Heritage through Responsible tourism initiatives. The groups business is experiential holidays and has adopted as core values; respect for the environment, community and the local ethos. CGH Earth offers you a string Experiences that are unbelievably Pure, Unexpected and Inspiring, for a holiday that is a pilgrimage to the self.
DR. ANJUNA DHIR
Partner
+91 9811031980
SHRINIVAS KOWLIGI
Partner
+91 9599584226
E: anjuna@destinopedia.com, E: shrinivas@destinopedia.com
Read More- Apt 282, Air Force Naval Officers Enclave, Plot 11, Sector 7, Dwarka
New Delhi – 110075
Member Since: Apr-2023
Bringing best-in-class expertise to the table built from experiences around the world, Destinopedia is a one-stop-shop offering solutions for destinations. With our expertise, multi-disciplinary approach and robust methodologies, Destinopedia is the right partner to navigate these challenging times in the travel and tourism sector.
With a multi-dimensional approach to Destination sustainability, that balances, ecology, economy and community, Destinopedia offers strategy, design, management and implementation support to both pubic and private sector clients.
Mr. Suhail Gupta
MD
- 13, Community Centre, Vasant Vihar, NEW DELHI 110057
Member Since: January-2010
India Safari and Tours is one of the Indian Subcontinent’s most comprehensive tour operators. As such, we are able to offer fully inclusive service to our travel partners tailored to suit almost any requirement and budget.
We are one of the Indian Subcontinent’s most comprehensive tour operators. As such, we are able to offer fully inclusive service to our travel partners tailored to suit almost any requirement and budget. Our professional and experienced travel specialists will work with you every step of the way, ensuring that we design tailor made travel programs to suit your needs.
Our team at India Safaris and Tours consists of seasoned professionals with more than 60 years of experience in planning and executing exceptional journeys across the Indian Subcontinent. We maintain strong alliances with a comprehensive range of quality properties that include small boutique hotels/home stays that are tucked away in amazing locales, transporters and service providers in India, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka. Our quality guides provide a professional and comprehensive experience of the areas in which we operate.
India Safaris & Tours is breaking new ground in the Indian Tourism Industry by setting new standards in service. We are in the process of setting up a transport fleet of Toyota’s in Central India for transferring guests to the various lodges; these vehicles will carry a picnic hamper with goodies that clients can enjoy during their drives. We are also creating a customized travel journal, which will be handed over to each individual client on their arrival into India. For train travel a customized travel kit is being put together for each client. This kit will contain bedding that will be laid out by the India Safaris butler who will travel with clients on overnight journeys, toilet bags with hand wash, toilet paper etc.
Our team in India have worked in then field in lodges as managers/naturalists/accompanying escorts and bring their field experience into tour operating. We have over the last 15 years been working very closely with the BBC Natural History Unit in Bristol on all their wildlife documentaries that have been filmed in India and the sub continent. Our colleague Toby Sinclair, who is our Director Special Projects is also their de facto location manager for all their projects in the subcontinent. We have done all their research, got the filming permissions from the authorities and also handled all their logistics. In fact the last film project we worked on the wildlife and culture around the river Ganges from its source to the Bay of Bengal, went on air in August in the UK. Another 3 one hour films on Tigers from Pench Tiger Reserve gone on air in 2008.
We have also handled arrangements for guests like Lady Helen Hamlyn and her late husband Lord Paul Hamlyn, Sir David Attenborough, Pierce Bronson’s visit to meet the Dalai Lama, Photographer Richard Avedon – have organised trips for Richard Avedon to photograph subjects in India for articles in Vanity Fair/Travel and Leisure. Also organised trips for Trustees from the Metropolitan Museum New York, Trustees of WCS( Bronx Zoo) etc. Recently we organised a fly in safari tour new lodges for Judge Judy, a well known TV celebrity from the USA.
As mentioned above we have access to a great range of resources i.e. conservationists – Valmik Thapar, Dr DC Chavda etc , Historians/Authors – William Dalrymple, Dr Shobita Punja, Political Commentators that can add great value to our guests experience in India by giving special lectures/talks to them.
Mr. Faiz Rashid
Chief Operation Officer
- C/o Jehan Numa Palace Hotel, 157, Shamla Hill, Bhopal 462 013
Member Since: January-2010
Reni Pani jungle lodge located near the Satpura National park, takes its name from the tribal village where the camp is located.
The word reni comes from a berry found in the surrounding areas and pani (water) is named after waterhole frequented by wild animals near the village. The lodge is built in 30 acres of dense deciduous forest with a nallah running through the property. There are 12 separate units with 3 different types of rooms to choose from (nallah facing units, forest units and hill-top units) .The rooms have been designed keeping the local surroundings in mind while providing a rustic feel to the lodge. The rooms have large private decks giving you the chance to be one with nature and explore the variety of bird and animal life within the camp
The common areas of the lodge comprise of a lounge, bar, dining and a library. The Swimming Pool is located along the bend of the nallah offering a spectacular feel of the surrounding forest.
Mrs. Tulika Kedia
Director
- 81/2, 4th Floor, Adhchini, Aurobindo Marg, New Delhi 110 017
Member Since: April-2010
Singinawa is a Sherpa word which means Protectors of the Sacred Forest and is the philosophy which guides us. Located on 110 acres of land, in the tiger heartland of the world, Singinawa Jungle Lodge offers a unique experience of the jungles of central India with all the comforts of a world class lodge. The lodge offers the chance to not only learn about the tiger and its habitat but to also experience ecologically responsible tourism and see conservation at work benefitting local communities and the Tiger Reserve.
Mr. Kanhai Kapoor
Director Operations
E: kanhai.kapoor@tajhotels.com, sachin.tevatiya@tajhotels.com
- Taj Palace Hotel, 2, S.P. Marg, New Delhi 110 021
Member Since: April-2010
Breaking new ground in India, the &Beyond • Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces joint venture offers the country’s first and only wildlife circuit.
This partnership provides guests with the ultimate interpretive wildlife experience in India based on a proven sustainable ecotourism model. &Beyond’s collaboration with Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces rests on decades of expertise in running luxury safari lodges offering unique wildlife experiences, coupled with legendary Taj service. This is a union of like-minded hospitality companies pooling vast resources and experience to build a circuit of extraordinary lodges in India’s renowned Tiger Reserves. In keeping with both companies’ shared and deeply entrenched social and conservation principles, development programmes are being established to engage neighbouring communities in making small, meaningful differences. The circuit currently includes Pashan Garh at Panna, Mahua Kothi at Bandhavgarh, Banjaar Tola at Kanha, Baghvan at Pench.
Mr. Cherian T Ramapuram
Director – Sales
Mr. Jose T Ramapuram
Director – Marketing
- Evolve Back Resorts
C/o Orange County Resorts & Hotels Ltd.
2nd Floor, St. Patrick’s Business Complex, 21, Museum Road, Bangalore – 560 025, Karnataka, INDIA
Member Since: July-2010
Welcome to the enchanting world of Orange County Resorts – a world of luxury holiday experiences, so steeped in the lore of the land, in the culture of its people and in the untainted natural beauty of the region, that it enjoins you to be one with the Spirit of the Land.
Mr. Rahul Sharma
Director
Ms.Renu Sharma
Director
E: renu@rventuresholidays.com
L – 16 / 2 A, DLF Phase II, Gurgaon, Haryana – 122002
Member Since: September-2010
Mrs. Husna-Tara Prakash
Read More- Kanak Building, 41, Chowringhee Road, Kolkatta 700 071
Member Since: September-2010
Glenburn Tea Estate’s Boutique Hotel is a product of the loving restoration of a century old colonial bungalow on our family estate in Darjeeling, high up in the Indian Himalayas, with breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga – the 3rd highest peak in the world.
Blend this with a thousand acres of verdant private forest, miles of lush green tea-fields and eight quaint tea-picker villages, myriad bird species, two sparkling rivers teeming with wild Himalayan Rainbow Trout and Golden Mahseer, and you can imagine why Conde Nast Traveller describes Glenburn as, “a little corner of heaven…..and almost as remote”.
The only hotel of its kind in the region, Glenburn is a destination where you can do as little, or as much as you desire, and is one of the few places in India where you can walk through stunning countryside all day, and return to sumptuous luxury, delectable cuisine and gracious hospitality at night. Darjeeling and Kalimpong towns are just a day trip away, and with half-a-dozen, full-day activities offered as part of an all-inclusive package, a typical stay ranges from 3 nights, up to a week.
Mr. J.K. Mohanty
Managing Director
- P1, Jayadev Vihar – 1, Bhubaneswar 751013, Orissa
Member Since: September-2010
Swosti Group is one of the largest hospitality industries in the state of Odisha since two decades. The laurel and history of the group has been acclaimed many times in national and international sphere for its food, service and accommodation.
The Managing Director and proprietor of the property Mr. J K Mohanty is one of the pioneer person in establishing the star hotel in the state and is consistently heading the Hotel & Restaurant Association of Orissa as Chairman for last so many years and as active member of FHRAI, IATO, HAI, TAAI, CII, UCCI & many other national & international associations.
Swosti Premium Limited as the crowning glory of Swosti Group is spread up in 4 acres of land in the vicinity of temple city of Bhubaneswar having 159 centrally AC rooms of various types and suites to meet the requirement of the class of people in the world. Our Convention hall, The Chanakya is one of the largest pillar less hall having its palatial grandeur stood majestically as the best convention hall available nationally and acclaimed several comments for notable conventions. Apart from that we have 9 other board rooms / small halls with a beautiful lush green lawn and beautiful swimming pool having lot of open space clubbed with Health Club having multi GYM, Shauna, Ayurvedic Massage, etc. Our Scottish bar, The Rob Roy is one of the finest available bars in the State.
Our prime property Hotel Swoti Pvt. Ltd. situated in the heart of the temple city having 57 rooms, good suite rooms, 3 conference halls, 1 Board room, two restaurants and Bar. The hotel has acclaimed several laurels to its credit for food, service and accommodation in national & international level and bagged several awards nationally and internationally.
We have also added another feather in the crown the Swosti Palm Resort, Gopalpur-on-Sea, a beautiful Beach Resort having 26 rooms, restaurants, two conference halls and a Bar for the need of our guests.
SWOSTI, the very name symbolizes comfort and leisure empirically vindicating the essence of the high hospitality cult ideolised in the image of Swosti Travels as a trade mark and mission enshrining the maxim Atithi Devo Bhaba in it’s fabric of corporate ethics to treat the guests with divine passion as God replicating the nobility of a devoted soul.
We are planned to coming up with Beach Resorts in Satpada, Puri & Chilika and our expansion of property will boost more tourism in the state of Odisha.
Mr. Ajeet Bajaj
Managing Director
Mrs. Shirly Thomas Bajaj
E: ajeetbajaj@hotmail.com, stb@snowleopardadventures.com
Read More- 801 & 802, 8th Floor, Cross Point Mall, DLF Phase IV, Gurgaon – 122002
- National Tourism Award: Most innovative Adventure activity viz. Sea Kayaking in the Andaman for the year 2008 – 2009
- Bird Express Award for Excellence in Customer Service for the launch of its new
- campsite Camp Blue Bull in Orchha , Madhya Pradesh
- Hall of Fame award for Mr. Ajeet Bajaj for promoting best practices in
- Adventure Tourism in India
Member Since: October-2010
Snow Leopard Adventures Pvt. Ltd., India’s first ISO 9001: 2008 certified adventure travel outfit, operates adventure tours in the Indian Subcontinent. Be it river rafting on the Ganga, trekking in the Himalayas, mountain biking in Garhwal, sea kayaking tours in Kerala or Trans-Himalayan jeep safaris, Snow Leopard Adventures assures you of a safe yet exciting experience.
Meticulous planning, tremendous emphasis on safety and “eco-sense” forms the foundation of each of our trips.
The company operates five picturesque tented campsites nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas near Rishikesh, and new adventure base at Orchha, Madhya Pradesh, in the heart of India. We are proud to state that our company has pioneered sea kayaking in Kerala and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. We also have a substantial portfolio of Multinational Companies, domestic and international schools visiting our campsites to experience the ‘spirit of adventure’ in the great Himalayan outdoors. Snow Leopard Adventures is committed towards promoting eco-friendly adventure tourism in India.
The company is led by Mr. Ajeet Bajaj (MD). Having more than 25 years of experience in adventure sports, he is the first Indian to have skied to both the geographical North Pole and the South Pole. He has also earned the distinction of being the first Asian to have rafted and kayaked some of the most challenging rivers in six continents of the world.
Awards won by Snow Leopard Adventures
Mr. Ashish Phookan
Managing Director
E: sales@assambengal.in
Read MoreDLF Phase IV, Gurgaon
Member Since: October-2010
Set amongst verdant farmland, patches of bird-rich forest and slow meandering streams, the ambience of the Diphlu River Lodge makes it a retreat in the true sense of the word. The luxurious, but rustic and eco-friendly lodge was built to adapt to the existing foliage and terrain.
The cottages are built on stilts and their thatch-covered roofs are supported by thick bamboo pillars.
Diphlu River Lodge is separated from the Kaziranga National Park by the river Diphlu, giving the cottages a – sometimes scarily – close view of the wildlife-stocked jungle beyond it. You are asked to keep your lights and sounds low for the wildlife that comes to drink there.
The grounds of the lodge include a lotus pond, barbecue and dancing area, and an observation hut. The spacious main building, called Machan, has a library, a restaurant with high thatched ceilings, sitting areas and a large verandah with gorgeous views of the park beyond the river. Well-trained naturalists assist you in identifying and understanding the private lives of the creatures that you encounter around the lodge or in the park.
Operated by Jungle Travels India, the Diphlu River Lodge adheres to the principle of good ecotourism practice. The lodge employs only local tribal people, it grows its own organic rice, mustard oil and vegetables, and leads and educates natives by example about conservation and preservation of their natural habitat and legacy. All garbage is properly disposed of, separated and recycled if possible.
Mr. Amar Nath
Director
- A-20/B, Feroze Gandhi Marg, Lajpat Nagar II, New Delhi 110 024
Member Since: December-2010
Mr Alex Le Beuan
Director
- C/66, 2nd Floor, Okhla Industrial Area Phase – I, New Delhi-110020
Member Since: July-2011
Mr. Sumant Batra
Director
- 15, Birbal Road, Jangpura Extension, New Delhi-110014
Member Since: October-2011
Many years ago, a young traveler discovered a non-descript enchanting village during one of his explorations of the Himalayan foothills. He fell in love with the place instantly and a summer house came up on the top of a hill in no time. This is where he wanted to live, he decided, but only after he had achieved his dream of becoming a famous lawyer.
As he climbed up the success ladder, the breathtaking view of the snow-peaked mountains, lush forests, enticing orchards, meandering trails, terraced fields and charming people of the village continued to beckon him.
One day It was love at first sight with the village. He climbed up a small mountain and looked at the imposing snow-capped peaks and the mesmerising valley and felt that he was standing at a place of love. He made up his mind. This was the mountain he wanted to settle down on once he was done with the city-life. Together, he and his wife built a dream house on the small mountain top. The mountain ofhe paused, decided it was time. He changed paths that led to what he wanted to do – design and open his own hotel in the mountains, a chai-ki-dukan where to tell his war-stories, write books, explore nature and undertake philanthropic activities. The colonial-style summer house is now Te Aroha, an eco-friendly boutique hotel.
The resort offers its guests the opportunity to experience finest hospitality, amidst the scenic surroundings of Dhanachuli. The property is a harmonious blend of traditional architecture and contemporary comforts. The original structure of summer house that once stood on the hill has been successfully preserved to retain its original charm.
Treepie Hospitality Private Limited
Sumant Batra
Chairman
Dhanachuli Bend, Near Mukteshwar, Tehsil Dhari, District Nainital, Uttrakhand – 263132
T: +91 87550 80736 +91 87550 80737
Email: info@tearoha.in
Web: www.tearoha.in
Mr. Bilal Chapri
Managing Director
Chapri House, H. No. 88, Sect – 23, HUDA, Gurgaon – 122017, Haryana
Member Since: April-2013
Mr. Ajay K. Bakaya
Executive Director
Ms. Preeti Nathani
Asst. Manager – Corporate Affairs
- E-48/9 Millennium Building, Okhla Phase II, New Delhi – 110020
E: ajay@sarovarhotels.com, preeti@sarovarhotels.com
Member Since: September-2012
Sarovar Hotels & Resorts is a leading hotel management company and one of the fastest growing chain of hotels in India. Headed by a team of industry veterans, the Company manages and franchises 60 operational hotels across 40 cities in India and overseas, under Sarovar Premiere, Sarovar Portico, Hometel, Park Plaza and Park Inn brands. The brands cover the 3, 4 and 5 star spectrum.
Sarovar Hotels also manages corporate hospitality services at the prestigious Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, Hindustan Unilever Limited’s training centre in Mumbai and the new campus of Indian School of Business at Mohali. Geoffrey’s, the popular English Pub brand operates at multiple destinations across India.
With 13 regional sales & reservations offices located across India, Sarovar Hotels & Resorts is one of the largest and most diverse hotel management companies in the country today.
Ms. Akanksha Garg
Director
Mr. Saroj Kumar Jha
Manager Sales, Delhi Office
- 402, Gagandeep Building, 12 Rajendra Place, New Delhi – 110008
Member Since: April-2013
Mr. R. Raju Bhurat
Managing Director
- V.R. Bhurat Nagari, Hampi Road, Malpangudi, Hospet – 583201 Karnataka
- Usage of solar power backup with bio-gas plant.
- Usage of CFL lamps & electric cars are used for guest transportation.
- Usage of plastics are completely banned, we use reusable laundry bags.
- Most of the communication is done through E-Communication. We try to minimize printing documents.
- We have our own kitchen garden where vegetables are grown ,using organic farming.
- Left overs are donated to Goshala.
- Installed STP,so has to not waste water.
- Regularly we organize free health check up camps,blood donation camp ,distribution of study materials for privileged school children in surrounding area & talent hunt to promote local talent with employment as part of CSR.
Member Since: September-2012
Vijayshree Heritage Village Pvt. Ltd., a 5 star heritage resort with 43 luxurious cottages, and is spread among 17 acres of greenery with over 60,000 saplings / trees of various medicinal values, various energy conservation techniques, plastic free zones, has made it a true ‘eco-friendly’ resort.
The resort is planned around the philosophy of ‘Panchabhoota’ – the five elements comprising Earth, Fire, Wind, Water and Sky. Unlike conventional resorts, we put you in touch with the ‘Saatvik’ Indian lifestyle, with a ban on cigarettes, liquor and non-vegetarian food inside the resort which encourages health consciousness among visitors.
Facilities: – AJEET MULTI CUISINE RESTAURANT, COFFEE SHOP 24X7, SWIMMING POOL, CHILDREN’S POOL, HEALTH CLUB SAUNA WHIRPOOL/HOT TUB/JACUZZI, SPA, GAMES ROOM, PLAY GROUND AREA, TELEPHONE, LAUNDRY, CONFERENCE, OPEN ROCKERY AREA, MARRIAGE HALL, THEME VILLAGE-LIVE ENTERTAINMENT DAILY
This apart, the Heritage Theme Village next door, which is part of our resort, captures your imagination and refreshes your memory of rural Indian art & traditions. Each day, at twilight the village gets lit up with colorful and awe-inspiring traditional dance, music and cultures of the bygone era. From folk dances of Rajasthan to death defying acts of tribals , inspirational designs of the Mehandi artist to the magical flow of hand of the Puppet showman, from camel rides to bullock cart rides , you name it, and you get to experience it. And the best way to conclude the day is by tasting our Rajasthani style pure vegetarian dinner thali served in traditional style at our ‘Manvar’ Rajasthani restaurant.
We follow eco friendly environment. Many activities are followed, few to mention
Mr. Ravinder Tickoo
Managing Director
- 803-804, Kirti Shikhar, District Centre, Janakpuri, New Delhi – 110058
Member Since: February-2014
Active India Holidays Company Profile With a dedicated focus on active, experiential tours and destination services active India holidays specializes in creating safe, authentic and memorable India experiences for families, small groups and individual travellers.
With a dedicated focus on active, experiential tours and destination services active India holidays specializes in creating safe, authentic and memorable India experiences for families, small groups and individual travellers.
Active India Holidays Private Limited (Active India) was established in 2011 with a dedicated vision and focus on active and experiential adventure, discovery and wildlife tours and destination management services across India.
Active India’s foundations are defined by its core competence and local expertise, quality infrastructure, service and safety standards and offering innovative, authentic and memorable India experience to both new and returning visitors.
Each one of our products and services are carefully designed, researched and refined to offer the best value, comfort and safety while truly inspiring our clients to indulge, explore and participate in the cultural charm, natural beauty and diversity across India’s most popular and hidden destinations.
These include cycling and trekking programs in the Himalayas, Ladakh and Zanskar, Rajasthan and Kerala, experiential culture and discovery tours across India, wildlife tours and nature safaris popular with families and independent travellers.
Our special interest activities focus on tailor-made programs in rural tourism, home stays, charity tours and cultural exchange programs for schools, students and volunteers.
Responsible Tourism is and always has been one of the driving principles of Active India Holidays. Our commitment to sustainable tourism practices and initiatives has helped the company to integrate a responsible tourism policy in all major aspects of its operations and decision making right from the outset.
Active India Holidays Private Limited is an Approved Adventure Travel company with Ministry of Tourism Government of India and member of the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI).
- U-26, A/6, Ground Floor, DLF, Phase – III, Gurugram – 122002
Member Since: November-2016
Shoba Mohan is the Founder Partner of RARE India, a company that has been promoting conservation and community based tourism with sustainability as a keystone value for tourism and hospitality. She sits on board associations like RTSOI, TTC, IAHRC etc. and promotes the idea that sustainable travel is future ready and luxury has to be redefined around parameters that believe in protection and preservation of the planet.
About RARE India: RARE India is a collection of some of the finest boutique hotels with its heart set around conscious luxury travel – palace stays, wildlife life lodges, homestays and retreats of the sub-continent. We believe that ‘Meaning is the new luxury’ and our community is an inclusive list of experiential hotels and hospitality concepts with a quality and style quotient that appeal to the world traveller, believe in working with the community while being personal and high on service. Our hotels are often set away from the repetitive and regular routes, aspire to tread softly on the land they are set in and preserve the innocence of the destination. In short, you have a ‘RARE’ collection of hotels and concepts that offer the perfect immersive experience to the evolved traveller. Founded by Shoba Mohan, RARE India’s list comprises a unique collection of hotels spanning three countries – India, Nepal & Bhutan, 17 States in India alone and 55 hotel brands.
Nirat Kumar Bhatt
Chairman & MD
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203, Benkesha Complex, Near Navrangpura Bus Stand, Ahmedabad (Gujarat) – 380009
Member Since: December 2017
Mr. Praveen Sharma
Director
Fairhavens, Near Head Post Office, Malli Tal, Nainital, Pin – 263001 (Uttarakhand)
Member Since: April 2018
Mr. Abhimanyu Mehra
MD
Read More
47-A, The Mall Road, Amritsar, Punjab – 143001
Member Since: July 2018
Mr. Sanjay Basu
MD
Read More
50 LGF, Charmwood Plaza, Erose Garden, Surajkund Road, Faridabad – 121009 Haryana
Member Since: July 2018
Syed Junaid Altaf
M. D.
Syed Ali Jafary
Head – Sales & Marketing
Geetu Kaura
General Manager
Read More
Plot No 1, First Floor, Kehar Singh Estate, Western Marg Lane No. 2, Saket, New Delhi – 110030
Member Since: August 2018
Maj. S. K. Yadav
M. D.
Read More
G-18, Masjid Moth, Greater Kailash, Part II, New Delhi – 110048
Member Since: September 2018
Mr. Yugabrata Kar
Proprietor
Read More
Mayfair Haritage, C. T. Road, Puri – 2, Odisha – 752002
Member Since: September 2018
Mr. Laximan Raul
Proprietor
Read More
Office No. 401, Fourth Floor, Edcon Solitaire Building, Near Vodafone Gallery, Angod, Mapusa, Goa – 403507
Member Since: October 2018
Mr. Shivraj Singh Shekhawat
Partner
Read More
Flat – F-1, D334, Near SKR Academy, Kardhani Scheme, Kalwar Road, Jhotwara, Jaipur – 302012 (Rajasthan)
Member Since: May 2019
Mr. K. Pandian
Director
Read More
Cholan Tours Pvt. Ltd., No. 4, Annai Avenue, Vasanth Nagar Extn. Kollidakarai, Srirangam, Trichy – 620006, Tamil Nadu
Member Since: June 2019
Mr. Oshank Soni
Director
Read More
38/12, Second Floor, East Patel Nagar, New Delhi – 110005
Member Since: June 2019
Mr. Pradeep Kumar Marwah
Director
Mr. Sidhartha Roy
Sr. Vice President
Read More
Global Center 327, Udyog Vihar, Phase – II, Gurugram – 122016 Haryana
Member Since: June 2019
Mr. Riyaz U. C.
Managing Director
Read More
S. A. Road, Elamkulam, Kadavanthara, Cochin , Kerala – 682020
Member Since: July 2019
Mr. Prashant K Masih
Founder Director
Read More
3239/1, Tulsi Nagar, Ranjhi, Jabalpur , (M.P) – 482005
Member Since: July 2019
Mr. Sandip Tiwari
Business Head
Read More
2nd Mile, Sevoke Road, Ward – 43, Bhanu Nagar, Siliguri – 734001, West Bengal
Mr. Bansal
Chief Operating Officer
Read More
202, 2nd Floor, Morya Bluemoon Oppciti Mall, Andheri (W) , Mumbai – 400053
Mr. Ujjawal
Vice President
Read More
C-41, 10 c CGHS, Plot 8 C, Sector 11, Dwarka, New Delhi – 110075
Member Since: March 2017
Ms. Shahna Steve
Executive Director
Read More
34, Sreyas Krishna Appartments, 3rd Floor, North Street, Sriram Nagar.Alwarpet.Chennai-600018
Member Since: March 2020
Mr. Narendra Singh Rathore
COO
Read More
Alt F, Tower B, Suncity Success Tower, Sec – 65, Golf Course Ext. Road, Gurugram – 122101, Haryana
Member Since: June 2020
Ms. Shilpa Sharma
Founder / Director
- B-7/5, LGF, Opp. Deer Park, Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi – 110029
Member Since: June-2020
Mr. Abinash Manghani
CEO
- 25, Community Centre, Basanyt Lok, Vasant Vihar, New Delhi – 110057
Member Since: September-2020
Mr. G.S. RATHORE
Promoter
- M/s Versa Industries Pvt. Ltd., C-5/14 (LGF), Vasant Kunj, New Delhi – 110070
Member Since: May-2021
With a strong focus on conservation, sustainability and local community Kanha Jungle Camp sits in an enviable position near to the Mukki Gate of Kanha National Park. It is tucked into 40 acres of reforested lands, adjoining the buffer forest of Kanha National Park.
Mr. Samit Sawhny
Director
Mr. Sanjeev Kumar
General Manager – Operations
E: samit@barefootindia.com
Read More- No. 77/43, 2nd Floor, Chamier Road, Chennai 600028. Tamil Nadu
Member Since: Jul-2022
Barefoot at Havelock Resort, incorporated under Barefoot Resorts and Leisure Pvt Ltd, was founded to help incubate a model of sustainable tourism in the Andaman Islands. The resort is built in vernacular style almost entirely from regenerable natural materials, is fully water self-sufficient and merges seamlessly into the natural landscape. As part of an effort to give its guests a well curated and truly authentic Andaman experience, the organization also runs its own destination management company and adventure sports and eco tours division, with activities and itineraries designed to inform and educate visitors on the natural wonders of Andaman, both on land and under water.
Mr. Yashpal Khanna
Director
Mr. Atul Hassija
Director
Mr. Tarun Taneja
Director
E: yashpal@indiatravelpundits.com, atul@indiatravelpundits.com, tarun@indiatravelpundits.com
Read More- 419, Fourth Floor, Qutub Plaza, DLF Phase 1, Gurugram – 122002 HR
Member Since: Aug-2022
Mr. Rajesh Kaley
Director – Engineering
E: rajesh.kaley@tajhotels.com, banerjee.atanu@tajhotels.com
Read More- Near Circuit House Area, Jodhpur – 342006
Member Since: Apr-2022
Built between 1928 and 1943, Umaid Bhawan Palace is a magnificent piece of Rajasthan’s heritage, and a symbol of new Jodhpur. Set amidst 26 acres of lush gardens, with dancing peacocks, our Palace offers 70 utterly breathtaking Art Deco- style rooms and suites. The world’s sixth-largest private residence, is an architectural marvel whose scale, precision and beauty delight at first sight.
Mr. G.S. RATHORE
Promoter
- M/s Versa Industries Pvt. Ltd., C-5/14 (LGF), Vasant Kunj, New Delhi – 110070
Member Since: May-2021
Mr. G.S. RATHORE
Promoter
- M/s Versa Industries Pvt. Ltd., C-5/14 (LGF), Vasant Kunj, New Delhi – 110070
Member Since: May-2021
Mr. Bharat Seth
Partner
E: bharat@onelatitude.in, simran@onelatitude.in
- 32, Navjivan Vihar, New Delhi – 110017
Member Since: Jul-2021
Mr. Yadnasen Patankar
Director
E: agreenhotels@gmail.com
Read More- Shikka Mansion, AT & Post Patan, Distt. Satara, Maharastra – 415206
Member Since: Aug-2021
Mr. Varun Hooja
Partner
Ms. Miriam Leonard
Director
E: management@themachan.com, varun.hooja@themachan.com, miriam@themachan.com
Read More- 1230,12th floor, Hubtown Solaris, Prof NS Phadke Marg, Andheri East, Mumbai – 400069
Member Since: Aug-2021
Ms. Rohini Vachher
Business Head
E: info@titlyy.com, rohini@titlyy.com
Read More- 40/ 6, Church Road, Jangpura – Bhogal, New Delhi – 110014
Member Since: Aug-2021
Mr. Vikram Maira
Owner
E: vikram@sitlaestate.com
Read More- P.O. Mukteshwar, Distt. Nainital, Uttrakhand – 263138
Member Since: Aug-2021
Mr. Prateek Hira
President & CEO
E:info@tornosindia.com
Read More- Tornos House, C- 2016, Indira Nagar, Lucknow
Member Since: Dec-2021
Tornos was founded in 1994 as an experiential tour company offering knowledge based immersive tours and experiences. Meaning of travel has transformed immensely in all these years. From sightseeing it is now all about ‘Sightexperiencing’ and often experimenting too. Tornos realised this quite early and flew with the change from operating just for ‘leisure & pleasure’ to ‘travelling for experience & learning’. They evolved themselves in the early years of this paradigm shift, to include experiential tours as a major part of their service offering, and this has kept them above the crowd, providing an edge over others in the industry – Their Heritage Walk was introduced in 1994, much before anyone could think of walking tours in India or for that matter, their Culinary Walk was introduced in 1995 when hardly could anybody appreciate street-food as a product for foreign tourists in India. Many more products followed since and each perfected to the last ‘e’ of ‘finesse’, so much so that most of their products have been highly recommended by Conde Nast Traveller, Lonely Planet and National Geographic Traveller, while their Heritage and Culinary Walks are rated as India’s No 1 walking tours. The company has grown due to its spirit of a learner. They have learnt to deliver just the best, learnt to surpass expectations, they learnt that there could not be any highest benchmark in the service delivery and above all they learnt, to keep learning no matter how much they grow.
Tornos conducts a major part of their business based on the principles of ‘Responsible Travel’. The commitment to the concept of ‘Regional Development by promoting local through locals’ that was made at the time of the company’s inception in 1994, is followed in letter and spirit till date and remains an underlined commitment of Tornos.
Detailed Company Profile : http://www.tornosindia.com/about-us/
Mr. Anirudh Shukla
Managing Director
E:experience@vedicwalks.com
Read More
- 49, Govind Nagar (East) Shivaji Marg, Amer Road, Jaipur – 302002
Member Since: Apr-2022
Responsible Tourism has arrived. Join us in the journey!
Vedic Walks is a boutique travel company with the very foundation of curating Responsible and Sustainable tourism products in Rajasthan. Established in year 2008, we are a team of Craftsmen creating & delivering exceptional indigenous travel experiences for more than a decade. Hand-crafted to perfection, our experiences are based on conserving natural and cultural heritage of Rajasthan. Community engagement, Responsible luxury tours, Walking tours, Cycling trails, Food tours and Art workshops are some of our signature travel programs.
We are a trusted Experiential travel partner for many prestigious travel and event companies from all around the world and Vedic walks is also gladly associated with top media houses both from India and overseas to help organizing travel events and documentaries to be shot in Rajasthan.
Accreditations & Awards Won by Vedic Walks
• Luxury Travel Guide Award (Global) for year 2021-22
• Travel & Hospitality Award for Innovative Travel Experiences for year 2019-20
• Luxury Travel Guide Award (Asia & Australia) for year 2018-19
• Member – Department of Tourism (Government of Rajasthan)
• Allied Member – India Food Tourism Organization
Mr. Hemant Mediratta
Founder
Mr. Mayank Tuteja
Director – Sales
E:hemant@onerepglobal.com, mayank@onerepglobal.com
Read More- Vipul Business Park, 421, Sector – 48, Gurugram – 122004
Member Since: Dec-2021
One Rep Global is a leading sales and marketing organisation that offers a 360 degree approach and bespoke solutions to luxury hotels, travel, luxury lifestyle and wellness brands. We are a one stop solution across multiple disciplines offering sales representation, creative studio services, digital marketing, public relations and consultancy services. Our services are tailored to each individual client’s unique requirements, helping them to expand reach, enhance visibility and acquire profitable market share. Driven by an experienced team of professionals that harness their expertise to integrate innovation, creativity and technology, ensuring deliverance of measurable results. Our primary goal is to give you the most credible voice and help you build a powerful presence in India and the Middle East.
Mr. Bilal Ahmed Chapri
Director
Mr. Altaf Hussain Chapri
Director
Mr. Sandeep Kumar
Chief Accountant
E:bilal@discoveryjourneysindia.com
altaf.chapri@abchapriretreats.in
accounts@abchapriretreats.in
- 402, Tower 2, DLF Corporate Greens, Sect – 74 A, Southern Peripheral Road, Gurugram – 122004
Member Since: Apr-2022
QAYAAM GAH RETREAT- An Experiential Lodge
An eco-friendly accommodation located high on the hillside ridge in Srinagar Kashmir with stunning views of the Dal Lake and distant Pir Panjal mountain range.
Qayaam Gah means a peaceful resting abode where you feel naturally at home and where you can be at your most authentic self. This is a retreat to discover the rich mystical and cultural heritage of Sufi way of life in its minimalist approach and conscious living in deep natural environment.
The hinterland grounds of the complex have been purposefully left undisturbed so as to encourage the wildlife of the area. This includes many types of native and migratory birds, shy snow leopards and the winsome black sloth bears which come to pick the cherries in springtime. The site is nourished by natural spring water, conveyed by hidden pipes from the mountains behind. Despite such contemporary conveniences, not one tree was felled during the construction of this retreat and as well the undulating topography was retained with fruit bearing trees.
Qayaam is a small place which has got just 6 rooms as single storey cottages built in simple design of cedar wood, glass and stone with details picked out in the traditional kashmiri style of fine carving in floral and vegetal motifs in deodar woodwork. No concrete boundary wall is made so as to let the nature & wildlife flow. Iron mesh fencing with flowering creepers is used instead. Hand made and hand-crafted products are used in the interiors. The reception and dining area has good stock of books about Wildlife, Himalaya & spiritual Kashmir.
The entire premises is a strictly NO Plastic and NO Smoking zone. RO drinking water is provided in glass bottles. Biodegradable toiletries are used in bathrooms. Rooms are spacious with lot of natural light. Solar light and dim SFL bulbs are used to conserve energy. Rainwater harvesting is applied and as well waste is segregated in different types of dustbins to re-use & recycle. Compost pit is also constructed.
Natural fresh vegetables are grown in our own kitchen garden. Local village people are employed and participation in community projects is done regularly. Food is cooked in natural ingredients and fresh local spices. High quality staff is employed and as well the local team is trained regularly for delivering professional and personalized services. Welfare and wellbeing of our staff is ingrained in our core philosophy and management policy.
We conduct nature walks, bird watching, hiking & biking as well visit our village nearby for an in depth experience and cultural exchanges. Light Sufi music and story- telling sessions are organized in the premises. Qayaam Gah Retreat is committed to contribute positively towards achieving the sustainable Development Goals and run our operations in an eco-friendly manner.
Mr. Suresh Periwal
Managing Director
Mr. Sumit Periwal
Director
Mr. Amit Periwal
CEO
E:suresh@clubside.in
sumit@clubside.in
amit@clubside.in
- Suite No. 3, Second Floor, 75C Park Street, Kolkata
Member Since: Apr-2022
Clubside Tours and Travels Pvt. Ltd. is among the oldest Destination Managements companies operating in Eastern India operating from offices in Darjeeling, Kolkata, Siliguri and Guwahati. Offering services like Cultural Tours, Adventure Tours and other value added services, we remain the preferred Partner for anyone promoting or visiting this region. We provide services in the states of West Bengal, Sikkim and the 7 north eastern states of India.
Clubside has been focused on the growth of adventure tourism in the region with activities like trekking, wildlife, mountain biking and rafting. With a team dedicated for adventure activities, Clubside possesses the required infrastructure to be able to deliver the highest standards of services and experiences to our guests travelling to this region.
We have been recognized for our work with the National Award for the years 2013-14, 2014-15, 2015-16 and 2017-18 and the FICCI Travel & Tourism Excellence Awards 2019 in addition to numerous other accreditations. The Managing Director of the company, Mr. Suresh Periwal was bestowed with the Hall of Fame by IATO in the year 2016 for his outstanding contribution to the growth of the tourism industry in the region.
Mrs. Rina Dilip Khatau
Executive Director
- 81/88, Atlanta, 8th Floor, Nariman Point, MUMBAI 400 021
Member Since: October-2009
Mr. Dilip D. Khatau of Khatau Business House started the Group’s first wild life resort, Infinity Corbett Wilderness (formerly known as Tiger Tops Corbett Lodge)in 1991 located along the banks of Kosi River at the fringe of Corbett National Park. This eco-friendly tourism project was first of its kind, and in recognition of this, the Government of India appointed Mr. Khatau on the Board of Uttar Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation. This property, tastefully designed and having one of the best locations for a wildlife resort in India, is the most sought after resort among the nature lovers in India and abroad.
The Khatau Business House was among the pioneers of the textile industry in India way back in 1874 and cement industry in 1920. Being the leader in the manufacturing of various varieties of saris, the famous voile sari was at one time synonymous with the name “Khatau”.
As the scion of the 4th generation of the powerful Khatau Business House, Mr. Dilip D. Khatau was instrumental in venturing overseas to East Africa and South East Asia in 1964. Eventually, in 1990s, the Dilip Khatau Group further diversified extensively in India into the production of footwear, cement, power cables, chemicals and shipping. Since 1994, the Group concentrated on shipping, tourism and wildlife conservation. An ardent wildlife lover since his childhood, Mr. Khatau’s passion took him to many wilderness areas such as Corbett National Park in India. During his 15 years of stay in Kenya, and later in South East Asia, his passion for wildlife hunting turned to serious wildlife protection and nature conservation. He later became an active member of the East African Wildlife Society. He was highly impressed by the way wildlife tourism had proliferated and gained popularity in Africa which had not taken off in India then. He dreamt of similar ventures in India where tourists can enjoy being in the wild, and at the same time, relax in the luxury and comfort of home. He is also a member of the National Board for Wildlife, India.
In 1991, he started the Group’s first wildlife resort, Infinity Corbett Wilderness (formerly known as Tiger Tops Corbett Lodge), located along the banks of Kosi River at the fringe of Corbett National Park. This eco-friendly tourism project was first of its kind, and in recognition of this, the Government of India appointed Mr. Khatau on the Board of Uttar Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation. This property, tastefully designed and having one of the best locations for a wildlife resort in India, is the most sought after resort among the nature lovers in India and abroad.
With vast experience in both hospitality industry and wildlife conservation, the Group expanded its operations to the semi arid and unique landscape of Kutch, Gujarat. Thus, Infinity Rann of Kutch resort was established in 2008. The property with its elegant tented cottages is like an oasis in the desert! In October 2009, the group’s third resort, Infinity Bandhavgarh Wilderness, situated along the periphery of the famous Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, was opened. Infinity Bandhavgarh Wilderness is set amidst thick bamboo groves and natural vegetation. By the end of 2010, two more resorts will be added to the Group. They are located close to Kanha Tiger Reserve (Madhya Pradesh) and Kaziranga Tiger Reserve (Assam) and will be named as Infinity Kanha Wilderness and Infinity Kaziranga Wilderness, respectively. Conservation Corporation of India Pvt. Ltd. (CCIPL) was set up in 2009 as a holding company for the various resorts that the Group owns or will own in future with Mr. Khatau as its Chairman.
The Corbett Foundation (TCF), established in 1994, is a brain-child of Mr. Khatau. This Foundation is a testimony to his passion and heartfelt interest in the preservation of our natural heritage. With its mandate to preserve wildlife and nature with the involvement of the local communities, great work has been done at the grassroots-level work in and around Corbett and Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserves and also in Kutch. In conclusion, CCIPL and TCF are actually two sides of the same coin – the former complements and provides synergy to the latter. CCIPL strongly believes that conservation can only be achieved by involving the local stakeholders, providing them with employment opportunities and finally to lead a sustainable and harmonious lifestyle with nature. That’s why we say – Conservation is our business!
Corporate Office: 81-88, Atlanta, 8th floor, Nariman Point, Mumbai 400021 Ÿ Tel. +91 22 61466400 Ÿ Fax +91 22 61466498
www.infinityresorts.com
Swati Makkar
Resort Manager
E:rm@rakkh.com
Read More- Village Ghamrota, P.O. Rakh, Palampur, Himachal Pradesh, Pin- 176059
Member Since: Feb-2022
Mr. Sridhar M.M.
Partner
E:olivesridhar@gmail.com
Read More- Sky Park, Firs Estate, Pagoda Point Road,Yercaud, Distt. Salem, Tamilnadu – 636601
Member Since: Apr-2023
Mr. Shahid Hassan Rah
Director
Mr. Ashfaq Hassan Rah
Director
E:s.rah@experienceindia.co.in, a.rah@experienceindia.co.in
Read More- Registered Office:
E-2328, Ansals Palam Vihar,Gurugram Haryana – 122017
Mailing Address :
217, Bestech Chamber, Sushant Lok-I, Gurugram – 122002
Member Since: May-2023
Ms. Binita Ghosh
Co-Founder
Mr. Mayur Chaturvedi
Director
E:binita@ninefurlongs.com, mayur@ninefurlongs.com
+919599522217, +919810337488
- B 1/1460, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi – 110070
Member Since: Jun-2023
Nine Furlongs represents a timeless period that traverses the old Kumaoni and the British era of the yesteryears where much history has been written and mysteries remain. Surrounded by 50 Sq kms of verdant forest of the original and indigenous ancient Himalayan Oak and Rhododendron species, from where a 500 kms long panorama of unbroken views of the Himalayan ranges – Chaukhamba, Trishul, Panchachuli, Nanda Devi, Nanda Kot greet you.
The Estate that welcomes you at Nine Furlongs was built in the mid 1800’s. The bungalows are as much a part of the land as are the evergreen forests that surround the Estate.
During the British times, our estate belonged to a succession of District Collectors who would ride to work on horseback and hold mobile courts in the villages to dispense justice and attend to grievances.
Our bungalows from that era which have been carefully restored keeping it’s original character intact. They are independently located to allow you to enjoy in quietude, the magnificent views of the snow clad mountain ranges that stretch from the Garhwal peaks in the west to the Tibet and Nepal summits in the east.
The Estate sustains itself completely on renewable sources of energy and water. Solar Power is generated at the estate as grid supply is non existent. Rain Water is harvested, filtered and stored for our regular usage. We organically grow our own vegetables to help reduce carbon footprint. Our team has been hired and trained from the local community.
Mr. Tapas Banerjee
Managing Director
Mr. Mahendra Pal
General Manager
Ms. Heena Chhatwal
Buss. Dev. & Product Manager
E:tapas@trinetratoursindia.com,
+919810261373, +919899009034, +917428221595
- 607, Ansal Majectic Tower, Vikaspuri, New Delhi – 110018
Member Since: Jun-2023
Based in Delhi, we provide a range of trips both within Delhi and from Delhi to a number of locations. Our tour-made tours typically delve further into the area to discover lesser-known and distinctive features. Ayurvedic massages, hikes through the countryside, home visits, dinners with families, seeing plays and other performances, and other activities are combined to provide visitors the choice of a full experience. All of these and more are included in the customized tours, which provide our visitors a feeling and a sense of accomplishment. In addition, we work with handpicked drivers and guides who, besides being knowledgeable, are nice human beings from educated and cultured middle class families. Genuine concern for the visitor, accurate knowledge, and sincere aspirations to serve with our hearts serve as the guiding principles of our excursions.
Mr. Gaurav Debnath
Founder & CEO
Mr. Ravi Kr. Gupta
Founding Partner
Mr. Brajesh Kr. Prasad
Founding Partner
E:gaurav.debnath@gmail.com, shivkamal.mf@gmail.com, brajesh1582.bk@gmail.com
+917699993567, +919800744707, +917908072217
- Hoetus LLP
Champasari, Siliguri, West Bengal – 734003
Member Since: Jun-2023
HOETUS is a Travel-Tech Startup company based out of the foothills of Darjeeling, working with hundreds of indigenous Eco-Stays, local tour guides and EV Cabs to provide Eco-Tourism experiences through Responsible and Sustainable Tourism practices. We recognize the importance to decongest the regular tourism spots and rather encourage Travellers to experience the true colours of India through its variety and diversity of culture, food, traditions and weather.
Therefore, we promote tourism of the rural and offbeat locations and experiences that can connect the guest with the place, the indigenous people and their hospitality. The use of responsible and sustainable practices like: Litter free tourism, Minimal impact to the eco-system, respecting the indigenous culture and traditions, and value addition in terms of economic benefit and cultural exchanges, are the matters of focus for HOETUS.
Mr. Vivek Rauthan
Managing Director
Ms. Ashishta Rauthan
Managing Director
E:routeonwheels@gmail.com, routeonwheels@gmail.com
+919899175374, +919560001081
- B-69, Kumhar Gali, Mayapuri, Ajabpur Kalan, Dehradun, Uttarakhand – 248001
Member Since: Jun-2023
Route on Wheels is a community dedicated to exploring, learning & growing. It gives an opportunity to discover simple ways to lead an extraordinary life – one that is truly meaningful to you.
We have the knowledge, we are connected, and we are absolutely passionate about designing the best holiday for you – enriching your life with amazing experiences.
We offer travel experiences from the Mighty Himalayas in the North to the Palm-fringed beaches of the South, from Ethnic Tribes of the North East to the colourful Thar Desert of Western India.
Route on Wheels travel agency is the dream of Vivek Rauthan & Ashishta Negi, backed by their vast experience of 12-15 years working in Indian tourism. We transformed our dream to the foundation in the year 2015 with a slogan of “Customer loyalty is priceless”.
Route On wheels is a Dehradun based company, with a strong presence in inbound travel trade, adventure activities and corporate segment. The company with its professionally managed travel engine specializes mainly in organizing Adventure, Cultural, Religious, hill station & wildlife tours in India through a sprawling network. It offers 24 X 7 hours services that include travel planning, itinerary design, hotel bookings, ticket reservations and transport facilities. It also provides holiday packages, customized as per client’s need and budget.
Mr. Paras Prakash
Director
E:paras@pantellisense.com
Read More- Prakash Cottage Annexe, Bothwell Estate, Sanjauli, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh – 171006
Member Since: Jul-2023
Pantellisense, a leading travel company, has been proudly shaping the world of responsible tourism for the past 11 years. With a deep commitment to sustainability, cultural immersion, and community engagement, Pantellisense offers travelers a transformative and conscientious travel experience.
Founded on the belief that travel has the power to make a positive impact, Pantellisense crafts unique itineraries that prioritize environmental conservation, social responsibility and economic development. Their team of dedicated travel experts work closely with local communities, striving to preserve and celebrate the natural and cultural heritage of each destination they operate in.From breathtaking eco-adventures in remote locations to culturally immersive trips that connect travelers with local traditions, Pantellisense offers a diverse range of travel experiences that cater to the discerning and conscious traveler. Every itinerary is meticulously designed to minimize environmental footprint, promote sustainable practices, and support local economies. Whether it’s exploring pristine national parks, participating in community-based initiatives, or engaging in meaningful volunteer programs, Pantellisense ensures that every journey leaves a positive and lasting impression. With a decade of experience in responsible tourism, Pantellisense continues to redefine the travel industry by promoting ethical and sustainable travel practices. By choosing pantellisense, travelers embark on an extraordinary journey that not only fulfills their wanderlust but also contributes positively to the places they visit, creating a brighter and more responsible future for travel.
Mr. K. Ranga Reddy
Proprieter
E:reddy@garudatourism.travel
Read More- Suite B2501 Indu Aranya Pallavi , Near Nagole, Hyderabad – 500068
Member Since: Sep-2023
Mr. Raman Gharu
Promoter
Ms. Manjula Narayan Chawda
Promoter
E:Kosenrufudshala@gmail.com
+918556044154, +918369775411
- P.O. Khanyara, Dharamshala, Thatri, Kangra – 176218
Member Since: Oct-2023
Harpreet Singh
Director
Rahul Devgan
Director
E:realtourtravels@gmail.com, devgunrahul@gmail.com
+917307303031, +917086170860
- 1st Floor, BB-11, Masjid Moth, E Block Road, Greater Kailash Enclave 3, New Delhi – 110048
Member Since: Oct-2023
At Skytrails, we believe that travel transcends merely reaching destinations; it’s about crafting unforgettable journeys and unveiling the world’s wonders. More than a bridge between places, we are the architects of cherished memories and the curators of dream adventures. Our heart beats with an unquenchable thirst for exploration, and our vision goes beyond the ordinary, turning travel into an art—a beautiful dance of dreams meeting reality. While we harness the power of cutting-edge technology, our soul thrives on the personal, human touch that transforms trips into remarkable tales. We stand not just as facilitators but as partners, celebrating every wanderer, pioneer, and dreamer. Our promise? To not only simplify your journey but to elevate every moment of it. At Skytrails, we offer more than just services; we weave experiences, blending your aspirations with the world’s wonders. Embark with us, and let’s turn each voyage into a story worth telling. Welcome to Skytrails, where your dreams find their wings.
VISION: Skytrails envisions a world of travel that is as diverse and unique as each individual traveler. Our core vision is to celebrate the spirit of exploration by offering meticulously curate packages tailored to myriad tastes and wanderlust dreams. Recognizing the intricate tapestry of global travel, we provide comprehensive solutions from seamless travel visa assistance to all-inclusive bookings, encompassing flights, hotels, cars, and even enchanting cruise journeys. Every journey is a story waiting to be told, and at Skytrails, we are committed to ensuring that these stories are as enchanting and effortless as the dreams from which they were born. Dive into a world where your travel aspirations find the perfect path with us.
MISSIOIN: To curate travel packages that resonate with individual tastes, ensuring every traveler finds their perfect escape. To simplify global exploration by offering comprehensive visa assistance, ensuring no destination remains out of reach. To serve as a one-stop solution for all travel needs, providing seamless bookings from flights and hotels to cars and cruises. To elevate each journey beyond mere travel, turning every voyage into a cherished story and a timeless experience.
Mangaldas Shetty
Director
Srinivasa s.
Business Dev. Manager
Sanjay Manohar Naik
Finance & Accounts Manager
E:mangal.shetty@panchabhuta.org, bd@panchabhuta.org, finance@panchabhuta.org
+919844059666, +918951655340, +918660422583
- No 5C, Deauville Apartments, 19 Church Street, Bengaluru (Bangalore), Karnataka, 560001
Member Since: Jan-2024
In the heart of the Western Ghats, our endeavor is inspired by the splendid surroundings. Panchabhuta Foundation’s principles drive us to enhance biodiversity, revive the ocean’s vitality, and responsibly harvest forest resources. We chose Responsible Tourism as one of the Foundation’s flagship initiatives prompting us to establish exemplars
that go beyond conservation to actively regenerate the environment. We aim to strive for a sustainable ecosystem where resources are used thoughtfully, waste is minimized, and businesses operate with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. Through collaboration, our hope is to set a meaningful standard for responsible and regenerative practices in the Tourism sector. Amidst the challenges of COVID-19, we pivoted to create Responsible Tourism exemplars. The foundational work for our inaugural exemplar, the Retreat @ the Foundation, commenced with collaborative efforts involving sustainability industry experts, designers, architects, and local artisans. This diverse team worked cohesively towards the shared vision of transforming the foundation into a nature immersive experiential retreat while standing by our core values of nature conservation. The transformation was laid with the use of locally sourced, reclaimed, and sustainable alternatives such as creative reuse of local wood, recycling old furniture, and the use of bamboo and cane to minimize our environmental footprint. Working with local artisans, we crafted bathrobes made entirely out of floral waste! Our property is equipped with solar panels that power all the lights and fans on site. We also have an organic garden on the premises where we grow our own turmeric, ginger, and other vegetables. Additionally, we have a phytoremediation gravel garden that utilizes green plants and associated microorganisms to purify the water that flows through it.
Our waste management system includes compost pits and segregation of waste to ensure we reduce our contribution to landfills. We are
also working towards a plastic-free property by replacing plastic items with sustainable alternatives such as bamboo toothbrushes, and glass water bottles. Also, at A’KA our inhouse restaurant we prioritize fresh, locally sourced ingredients, embodying a slow and mindful approach to each dish.
We have adopted a unique invitation-only model, inviting guests and collaborators who share our passion for responsible tourism and commitment to preserving nature. By handpicking a select community of individuals who align with our values, we aim to create a shared sense of purpose and dedication. Our guests and collaborators
have become integral parts in our collective efforts to conserve
nature and champion responsible tourism.
Along with the fine attention to detail and curated experiences at the Retreat, we also offer nature immersive experiences for our guests. These experiences are designed in such a way that our guests and collaborators develop a sense of responsible travel and adopt a more sustainable lifestyle all while enjoying the region’s ecology, culture
and the breathtaking views of the Aghanashini estuary. We believe that our efforts to preserve the stunning natural environment of the region will not only benefit the local communities but also inspire our guests to become ambassadors of sustainable tourism. We want to replicate this model across India, extending our commitment to responsible travel and sustainable living to diverse regions of the country
Dipesh Sharma
Asst. Vice President
Narender Chandela
HR & Admin Manager
Ghanshyam Prajapat
Accounts Manager
E:avp@buenavistaindia.com, hr@buenavistaindia.com, accounts@buenavistaindia.com
+ 919116631321, +919116631326, +919116631325
- 235/2/6, Naradpura, Amer, Jamwaramgarh, Jaipur, Rajasthan, 302028
Member Since: Jan-2024
Ruchi Kohli
Director
Harjit Singh
Vice President
E:ruchi.kohli@awayandco.com, harjit.singh@awayandco.com
+9198100 91277, +919811890139
- 283, Udyog Vihar, Phase-II, Gurugram, Haryana – 122016
Member Since: Jan-2024
Dr. A. J. Jose
Managing Director
Ms. Sinto Joseph
Director
- Koduveli, Karimannoor, Idukki Distt. 685581 Kerala
Member Since: April-2010
Dewalokam is one of the very special home stays in Kerala based on the principles of Sustainability and Responsibility. The extreme tranquility of the resort offers the guest an atmosphere favorable to introspection and retrospection bringing about a spiritual elation. We offer personalized care and attention and assure great value for the money spent. The guest is the god in our premises and the whole family and the staff give undivided attention to the visitor from the time the guest arrives until his departure, with out interfering with his privacy.
Mr. Snehal Sharma
Director
- 102, Abhijeet – 1, Mithakhali Six Roads, Ellish Bridge, Ahmedabad – 380006, Gujarat
Member Since: April-2013
Mr. Narendra Singh
Director
- E -52 Amrapali Marg, Near Defence Public School, Vaishali Nagar, Jaipur – 302021 (India)
Member Since: September-2013
Mr.Kurian Jose
CEO
- Reservation/Sales Office:
Deepa Building, Santo Gopalan Road, Chullickal, COCHIN-682005
Camp Site:
Lowercamp, Melagudalur, Near Thekkady – 625518
Member Since: June-2015
Harvest Fresh Farms is an Organic Fruit Farm and Farmstay nestled in the serene Cumbum Valley.
A short 15 minute drive from Kumily, Thekkady, Kerala, the farm is strategically located at Lower Camp, very close to the famous Periyar Tiger Reserve. Harvest Fresh farms grows pomegranates as it chief harvest along with papaya, grape, coconut, tender coconut, sapota, mango and an apiary that produces the finest honey. The farm is also home to cows, geese, turkey, flying ducks and a flock of hens. A well laid out vegetable garden and an herbal garden ensures that there is fresh produce at all times in the kitchens. Accommodation is simple and comfortable with scenic views of the valley. Delicious traditional and local cuisine is served. Guests are invited to join in activities like harvesting in the fruit garden and tending to the animals. It is a great opportunity for people to learn about organic farming and with this hands on experience. As the sun sets, guests can relax, watch the stars, or simply read in quite luxury.
Mr. Vikram Singh Sodhi
Read More- Anandpur House, W-10A/15, Western Avanue, Sainik Farms, New Delhi – 110062
Member Since: February-2017
Mr. Hussan Lal, IAS
Principal Secretary
Ms. Kanwalpreet Kaur Brar, IAS
Chief Executive Officer
Mr. Lakhmir Singh, PCS
Executive Director
E: secy.tca@punjab.gov.in, directorculture@gmail.com, ed.apd.phtpb@gmail.com
Read More- Plot No. 3, Archives Bhavan, Sector 38-A, Chandigarh – 160036
Member Since: September-2012
Sh. Sanjay Sood, IFS
CEO-Cum-CCF
Eco-Tourism & Pub.
Department of Forests
E: hpecosoc@gmail.com
Read More- Mist Chamber, Khalini, SHIMLA – 171002 (H.P.)
Member Since: October-2010
20, Tagore Nagar, University Road, Gwalior (M.P.) – 474011
Member Since: March 2017
Akshay Shanker Kulshrestha have worked with various tourism organizations after completing his education in Tourism and Travel Management. Presently, he is working as a Senior Supervisor (Tourism & Marketing) with Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation Ltd. (IRCTC) and have been handling tourism and marketing along with off-board division of the world’s leading luxury train Maharajas’ Express. His experience at IRCTC has been extremely fruitful and was also awarded as the Employee of the year 2014 in individual category.
Along with his regular job he has been diligently pursuing his academic interest in the Travel and Tourism Sector, to strengthen his academic credentials and give have exposure to research in areas of his interest. He is on the cusp of attaining PhD in Tourism from Jiwaji University, Gwalior.
His primary areas of expertise include Tourism Marketing, Luxury Tourism, Tour Operations, Sales, Product development, Business development, Local community development, Sustainable and Ecotourism, etc. He has also travelled few foreign nations as a part of his research.
He is also a life member of Indian Tourism and Hospitality Congress (ITHC), Indian Hospitality Congress (IHC), Youth Hostel Association of India (YHAI), Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) and Responsible Tourism Society of India (RTSOI).
- P.O. Kampa, Kampa Paschimpura, Kanchrapara, West Bengal – 743193
Member Since: November-2020
Ms. Bhaumik obtained her BA (H) in history & BA (Tourism) from University of Calcutta & IGNOU respectively, MA (Modern History) & MBA (Tourism) from Rabindra Bharati Universiry & University of Burdwan respectively as well as M.Phil in (Ecotourism) from The Global Open University (TGOU). She is pursuing her Ph.D from Aliah University. She also obtained few professional courses like Post Graduate Diploma in Event Management and Promotions, Post Graduate Diploma in Public Relations, Post Graduate Diploma in Entrepreneurship, Post Graduate Diploma in International Business and Operations, Post Graduate Diploma in Educational Administration and Supervision, Post Graduate Diploma in Human Resource Management, Post Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Research In Management (practical training on statistical packages for management research), Post Graduate Diploma in Marketing Management, Diploma in Training & Development, Diploma in IATA/UFTAA Foundation and EBT Course, Enter the world of Amadeus (ETWA-AMA), Enter the world of Automated Ticketing (ETWAT-AMA) as well as pursuing Post Graduate Diploma in Instructional Design from various recognised institutions. Her current research interests are Responsible Tourism and Community Development [Linkages among responsible tourism practices, perceptions on destination sustainability dimensions, and quality of life domains of local residents in tourism destinations of West Bengal]. She has published around two papers in national journals. She is a life time member of Indian Society for Training & Development (istd).
Ms. Bhaumik has twelve years of professional experience including working in tourism industry, teaching, training and research. She is also actively involved in the ongoing academic & administrative process in MAKAUT; WB & IGNOU.
Project guidance:
Ms. Bhaumik is actively associated (Representing MAKAUT; WB) with online internship program (new tourism related venture/entrepreneurial design), 2020 as a Resource Person (guide) under the banner of Tourism Startup ThinkTank organised by DTORR & Sustainable Development Goals.
- Kanika House, Gautam Nagar, Opp. State Museum, Bhubaneshwar – 751014
Member Since: February-2021
- O-10, First Floor, Chittaranjan Park, NEW DELHI – 110019
Member Since: October-2009
Seema Bhatt has worked extensively on issues related to ecotourism, biodiversity and climate change. Her particular focus of work is on strengthening the links between conservation of biodiversity and livelihoods of local communities. She views ecotourism as one such link and has coordinated two projects on ecotourism as the South Asia Coordinator for the USAID supported Biodiversity Conservation Network. Seema has since then worked extensively with various other ecotourism projects in India and other parts of South Asia. She has co-authored a book on Ecotourism Development in India published by the Cambridge University Press. Seema is a Fulbright Research Scholar and was based at the Center for Responsible Travel (CREST) in Washington DC where she explored the feasibility of ecotourism certification in India. She has since her return, been working on setting standards for ecotourism in India. Seema holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Studies from the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies. Seema Bhatt is at present with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations.
Clark House, 8, Nathalal Parikh Marg, Opposite, Sahkari Bhandar, Colaba, Maharastra – 400001
Member Since: January-2016
Ramada Udaipur Resort & Spa
Read MoreRampura Circle, Khodiyat Road, Udaipur – 313001, Rajasthan, India
Member Since: November-2016
Department of Travel & Tourism
Read More
Rajiv Gandhi Govt. Polytechnic, Vivek Vihar, Itanagar – 791113, Arunachal Pradesh
Member Since: May-2017
Dept. of Travel & Tourism, Rajiv Gandhi Govt. Polytechnic
Read More
Dept. of Travel & Tourism, Rajiv Gandhi Govt. Polytechnic, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh – 791113
Member Since: March 2017
Student
Read More
E-104, Mother Teresa Hall, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, West Bengal – 721302
Member Since: October 2018
251, Mridu Kishore Colony, Near Maharishi School, Mandla M.P. – 481661
Member Since: December 2018
Head Tourism, Tata Trusts, R.K. Khanna Stadium, Africa Avenue, Safdarjung Enclave, New Delhi – 110029
Member Since: May 2019
Asst. Professor,
Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University
Read More
Center for Hospitality & Tourism, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University, Rajouri, Jammu & Kashmir – 185234
Dr. Danish Iqbal Raina, With PhD in Customer Relationship Management has more than 12 years of experience in Teaching and Administration. A nature lover and admirer of Responsible tourism Practises, my area of research focuses on the role of local communities in establishing responsible tourism Practices.
Member Since: May 2019
Asst. Professor
Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences
Read More
A008, Temple Trees Apartment, J.P. Nagar, 6th Phase, Banglore, Karnatka – 560078
Member Since: June 2019
Dr. Sweety Jamgade, is an Asst. Professor in Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Faculty of Hospitality and Catering Technology, Bangalore, India. Treasures 16 years of overall experience in Academics and Industry. Have keen interest in research area in Tourism and Hospitality stream , passionate about Ecotourism & Sustainable Development of rural areas. Presented and published research papers in several National and International Seminars, Conferences. Published several research articles in various college journals. Have profound zeal to guide students in their professional and personal grooming. Active travel review writer and blogger in https://allaboutecotourism.blogspot.in/
https://www.travelblog.org/Bloggers/Paryavaraniya-Paryatan-ECOTOURISM/
https://www.travelblog.org/Asia/India/Maharashtra/Nagpur/blog-964162.html
https://www.travelblog.org/Asia/India/Maharashtra/Nagpur/blog-964164.html
https://www.travelblog.org/Asia/India/Maharashtra/Nagpur/blog-964165.html
21 A Kalpataru Habitat, Dr S S Rao Road, Lalbagh, Parel, Mumbai – 400012
Member Since: July 2019
With the acumen gained from two successful careers, the first in the Indian Revenue Service and the second at HSBC in India and Hong Kong, Malini advises corporates and not-for-profit Boards to design and operationalise the effective integration of sustainability, communications and investor relations into their strategic vision, so as to future-proof their organisations.
Malini has been a Strategic advisor on Sustainability and ESG for Board level and Senior Business leaders. She has been a Leader of high level stakeholder groups and has held positions on international and regional Boards for industry bodies and not-for-profits. She is an Experienced civil servant of Indian Revenue Service, with 14 years’ experience in various Indian Government Ministries. She is skilled in designing, developing and implementing large-scale, complex, cross-border sustainability projects in partnership with global and regional think-tanks, not-for-profits and academia, specialising in areas including livelihoods, employability, entrepreneurship, sustainable finance, environmental resource security.
C/o Srimanta Sahu, Sati Smruti, Sutahat, Christian Sahi, Cuttack – 753001 (Odisha)
With an MBA in Tourism and a Masters in English & Communications, I would love to use my knowledge practically in the field of sustainable and responsible tourism. I currently work for offbeat tours and marketing the rural tourism hubs of India. My main intention is to promote these regions of the country where the potential of tourism is rich but are yet unexplored. We are today stranded between overtourism and under-tourism and I look forward to bridging this gap in a more sustainable way. It is also important that the people of such regions are not exploited but benefitted. The whole idea of responsible tourism needs to be not just an idea but a common practice and this is the direction I am looking forward to.
- D-307, GF, Sarvodya Enclave, New Delhi – 110017″
Member Since: October-2020
Dr. Navina Jafa, Director of Indian Cultural Heritage Research is a well-known academic, curator, writer, interpreter, and presenter of and on Indian Cultural Heritage and an acclaimed Indian Classical Dancer, Writer, and Cultural History and Dance Scholar. She specializes in inventive ways of documentation and exhibition that looks at the wider frame to address Traditional Skills of India and Asia through research and livelihood program.
Recent Awards:
Women Economic Forum: Exceptional Leaders of Excellence – April 2019
Woman of Pure Wonder – Vodafone Foundation – 2017
– Awarded the prestigious American Fulbright Scholarship she worked at the Smithsonian Museum, Washington DC and has taught in some leading universities. Through her illustrious work on Indian Heritage, she has educated World Leaders, Nobel Laureates, Corporate Executives, Students and Academics from leading world universities to understand the Indian and South Asian Civilization.
– Her book on Heritage Walks in a survey shows the creation of 1500 jobs in the field of tourism and personally has trained of over 1000 School Teachers in the States of Kashmir, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, and Delhi-NCR to use Heritage Education for Multidisciplinary learning.
– Her model on using Development Communication using indigenous performing arts has been applied by her students from the Brandeis University in Ghana, Jordan, Philippines, and Iran. In the sector of sustainable tourism, organic agricultural practices; cultural identities; River rights and maternity health.
Her association with the Centre for New Perspectives, a Non-Profit Organization which works to address the sustainability of Creative Knowledge and Heritage skill communities.
- P.O. Kampa, Kampa Paschimpura, Kanchrapara, West Bengal – 743193
Member Since: November-2020
Ms. Bhaumik obtained her BA (H) in history & BA (Tourism) from University of Calcutta & IGNOU respectively, MA (Modern History) & MBA (Tourism) from Rabindra Bharati Universiry & University of Burdwan respectively as well as M.Phil in (Ecotourism) from The Global Open University (TGOU). She is pursuing her Ph.D from Aliah University. She also obtained few professional courses like Post Graduate Diploma in Event Management and Promotions, Post Graduate Diploma in Public Relations, Post Graduate Diploma in Entrepreneurship, Post Graduate Diploma in International Business and Operations, Post Graduate Diploma in Educational Administration and Supervision, Post Graduate Diploma in Human Resource Management, Post Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Research In Management (practical training on statistical packages for management research), Post Graduate Diploma in Marketing Management, Diploma in Training & Development, Diploma in IATA/UFTAA Foundation and EBT Course, Enter the world of Amadeus (ETWA-AMA), Enter the world of Automated Ticketing (ETWAT-AMA) as well as pursuing Post Graduate Diploma in Instructional Design from various recognised institutions. Her current research interests are Responsible Tourism and Community Development [Linkages among responsible tourism practices, perceptions on destination sustainability dimensions, and quality of life domains of local residents in tourism destinations of West Bengal]. She has published around two papers in national journals. She is a life time member of Indian Society for Training & Development (istd).
Ms. Bhaumik has twelve years of professional experience including working in tourism industry, teaching, training and research. She is also actively involved in the ongoing academic & administrative process in MAKAUT; WB & IGNOU.
Project guidance:
Ms. Bhaumik is actively associated (Representing MAKAUT; WB) with online internship program (new tourism related venture/entrepreneurial design), 2020 as a Resource Person (guide) under the banner of Tourism Startup ThinkTank organised by DTORR & Sustainable Development Goals.
Mr. Lokesh Kumar
E:lokesh28@gmail.com
- Flat No. 527, Govindh Block, Balaji Complex, Jail Road, Jarpada Bhubaneshwar 751014. Odisha
Member Since: Sep-2022
Lokesh Kumar has completed his Masters in Forest Management (2003-05 Batch) from Indian Institute of Forest Management – Bhopal, a premier Institute under the aegis of Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. He has more than 18 years of work experience in Tourism, Ecotourism/CBET, Wildlife, Skill Development and allied domains with various States such as Sikkim, MP, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Gujarat, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, J&K, Kerala etc. Since the inception of his career, he has worked with key entities of Ecotourism & Tourism repute like ECOSS Sikkim, Jungle Lodges & Resorts, Pragya, JPS Associates Consultants, Gujarat Tourism, Yes Bank’s Strategic Government Advisory, Odisha Tourism. His core areas of work include Policy Advocacy & Policy Preparation, Community Based Tourism Development, Investment Promotion Facilitation to State Governments, Natural Resource Management, Business Cluster Development, Skill Development and Livelihoods. His skill set includes Project Documentation & Report Preparations, Monitoring & Evaluation, Impact Assessment, Environment & Social Impact Assessment, Tourism Resource Mapping, APPA, Participatory & Rural Rapid Appraisals, Project Conceptualization and Structuring, PPP Structuring, Bid Process Management, Business Development & Competitive Bidding, Market Entry Strategy, Techno Commercial Feasibility and Proposal Writing. He has prepared several State Tourism Policies (Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Daman & Diu UT, Gujarat etc), Homestay Policy (Gujarat & West Bengal), Skill Development Policy (Uttarakhand) and worked on numerous International Funded projects from UNDP, ADB, EU, JICA, CAMPA, The World Bank etc.
Shaheed Khan
E: shaheeddharthi@gmail.com
Read More- 209, 2nd Floor, Victoria Apartments, Krishna Nagar, Puducherry 605008
Member Since: Sep-2021
Academically qualified in the areas of and armed with Post Graduate Degrees in History, Tourism, Business Administration and Law and a Research Degree in Tourism Management; Shaheeds’ focus area has been Tourism, Ecotourism, Mergers and Acquisitions and Human Resources. He also has a Micro-specialization in Strategy Management from Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode and a Corporate Program in Leadership Management from Harvard School of Publishing.
He brings to the table multiple facets of functioning that supports in any area of academics and practice in the corporate world. Having worked in the Government, Private and Social Sectors, Shaheed has got to broad understanding of Tourism, Travel and Hospitality (TTH)., Shaheed currently is the Head, Research, Training and Advocacy with Dharthi NGO and Dharthi Learning Centre, Pondicherry. Dharthi has its Headquarters in Bangalore and works with Private and Government organizations in the domain of Environment, Forests, Communities and Tourism. Shaheed had worked in the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Pondicherry, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh for Dharthi.
He is also an Adjunct Faculty in the domain of Tourism, General Management, M&A in Educational Institutions (Central and State University, Deemed to be and Private Universities), and engages Class session for Corporates in Leading IT and manufacturing Companies of India. He has authored over 15 articles in Journals of repute and contributed to Chapters in Edited Books as well.
He has worked with other stakeholders to ensure for the Ecotourism segment and has been supporting the cause of Sustainable Tourism.
E:mishra.jaya4@gmail.com
Read More- Shabd Lok – 47, Lajpat Nagar, Maldahiya. Varanasi – 221002 U.P.
Member Since: Nov-2021
Grew up and raised in Varanasi, I have a wide spectrum of fondling; ranging from Kashi – the city of Varanasi to revered Ganga ji, to nature and mountains to many more. All these affections are often manifested by me through poetries and various write ups over social media accounts.
From study to teaching, writing and reading poetries, brainstorming talk sessions with self, painting, craft work, rangoli, bonsai, kitchen recipes to the solitude spent with nature and myself… all these are my favorite chores and leisure both.
Recently completed my Ph.D. in Tourism Management subject with topic ‘Socio cultural Impacts of Tourism: A case of Varanasi from Department of Tourism, Kumaun University, Nainital in year 2021, September. Previously worked as Assistant Professor at Kurukshetra University – Haryana for under graduate level in tourism subject for academic session 2014 – 15. Before that worked as Guest Lecturer for tourism subject at Vasanta College for Women – Rajghat (B.H.U.) from year 2011 to 2014. I often take active participation in various seminars and conferences related with my academia, so far my published works are comprising of Research paper on topic of “Understanding of Socio-Culture Impacts of Tourism: A Review” published in peer reviewed journal titled ‘Compass’ Volume 2 Issue 1 September – 2019, ISSN 2394-0646, Chapter on topic of “What If the City of Varanasi Declared as UNESCO – Heritage City: An Analysis of Socio-Cultural Implication” published in book titled ‘Tourism Inclusive Growth & Sustainable Development’ ISBN-978-93-85000-05-8 and Chapter on topic of “Tourism Business: Ethical Challenges in India – A Review” published in book titled ‘Tourism and Hospitality Industry’ ISBN-978-81-8204-083-0.
E:adilahmed62@gmail.com
Read More- Flat 1515A, The Magnolias, DLF Phase 5, Gurugram – 122009 Haryana
Member Since: Jul-2022
Mr. Adil Ahmad has had a thirty+ years career in global consumer goods multinationals – first with Reckitt Bencksier plc (1986-2016) and then with Tata Consumer Products Ltd (2016-2022).
In his working career, Adil has held leadership positions in India and globally – across UK, India, Mideast and East Asia. His last position was President of International Business for Tata Consumer Products, based in London.
Adil is now based in Gurugram and working on his passion of history and culture, focusing on heritage awareness. He has authored a book about the historical monuments of Delhi.
Adil Ahmad completed his schooling from Doon School, Dehra Dun. He graduated his college with BA (Hons) from St Stephens College, Delhi and holds an MBA from Case Western University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
Dr. Niraalee Shah
E:connect.niraaleeshah@gmail.com
Read More- Lodha Parkside, A1901, 19th Floor, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai – 400013
- Corporate Training
- Tourism 17 SDG’s Training
- Sustainability Training
- Hospitality Training
Member Since: Jun-2023
Dr. Niraalee Shah founded Image Building and Etiquette Mapping to help entrepreneurs create profitable businesses and brands that attract their ideal clients. A Corporate Trainer, Author, Tourism Trainer, Sustainability Trainer, Hospitality Trainer, Digital Marketing Consultant and Branding Consultant. Niraalee Shah helps corporates, organizations, travel agencies, tourism industry and hospitality industry and individual professionals to help embrace change and achieve breakthrough performance
Niraalee has a burning desire to share the Magic of India – Celebrating Cultural Diversity. A staggering diversity where ethnicity, culture, religion, and language come together in a dazzling kaleidoscope of humanity. In India, there is an amazing cultural diversity throughout the country. Welcome to our helpful guide for India! If you are looking to travel, live, relocate or do business in the sovereign state, this book shall give you a complete guide on understanding the country and its culture, practices, and etiquette in India.
Dr. Niraalee Shah’s work is focused towards the wide spectrum of training requirements. Her skills apply to many aspects of the Indian business landscape:
Dr. Niraalee Shah empowers to lead the way towards a more sustainable future. Through her training, corporate houses, tourism industry and hospitality industry not only shall gain a competitive edge but also contribute towards creating a better world and more responsible individuals. She is truly a trailblazer in the field of tourism sustainable training, and her dedication to promoting Sustainable Tourism in India sets her apart as a visionary and a catalyst for positive change.
Ecologist
Read MoreA802, Rachana Sayantara, Hazari Pahad, Nagpur, Maharastra – 440007
Member Since: May 2017
Born in an Armed Forces family, I was always hooked to the outdoors. I soon realised that birds and smaller mammals fascinated me the most. Simultaneously, I found that Adventure was always a part of life. So have ended up being an explorer, trekker, scuba diver, sky diver, river rafter, birdwatcher and a nomad for life! Local people and their customs, and nature itself have been my biggest teachers – and I keep trying to learn more at every step.
Founded one of the most popular wildlife and adventure camping organisations – Pugmarks, before selling it and moving to Maharashtra Forest Department at Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (earlier Melghat Tiger Reserve). My mandate is to work in the field of creating a better eco tourism experience for visitors.
I also work to create livelihood opportunities and then capacity-build the local forest neighbouring communities – enabling them to earn respectable incomes. They thereby become stakeholders in the process of conserving our beautiful wild spaces.
314, Kayastan, Rampur Maniharan, Saharanpur – 247451, Uttar Pradesh
Member Since: August 2019
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Sanjay Kumar Ahirwal
Manager Administration