On the eve of International Skills Day (July 14), Chamber for Service Industry (CSI) and STIC Travel Group organized a conference on strategically channelizing Defence Officers and ladies in skills development and entrepreneurship related ventures.
The theme of the event was introduced by Dr. Gulshan Sharma, Director General of CSI, setting the stage for a day of informative and engaging sessions.
Dr. Subhash Goyal, President of CSI, delivered the welcome address, expressing optimism about the future of the tourism industry and its role in driving economic growth. Brig. Inder Mohan Singh, President of the Indian Ex-Services League (IESL), followed with the IESL President Address, emphasizing the significant contributions of ex-service personnel to the tourism sector.
Dr. Blossom Kochhar, Chairperson of the Beauty & Wellness Sector Skill Council under the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development, Government of India, delivered a special address. She highlighted the crucial role of skill development in enhancing the capabilities and employability of individuals in the beauty and wellness sectors.
Ajeet Bajaj, President of the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI), spoke about the vast opportunities in the adventure tourism domain. He outlined the potential for growth in this sector and the importance of promoting adventure tourism to attract both domestic and international tourists.
Maj. Gen. Ajay Singh Chauhan, Managing Director of the Army Welfare Placement Organisation, presented the Reoccupation Defence Personnel Vision, focusing on the initiatives and opportunities for reemploying defense personnel in various sectors.
PP Khanna, President of the Association of Domestic Tour Operators of India (ADTOI), shared insights on the opportunities in the domestic tourism market. He emphasized the importance of promoting domestic travel to boost the local economy and create job opportunities.
Ravi Gosain, Vice President of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), spoke on the future of tour operations, highlighting the need for innovation and adaptation to changing tourist preferences and market dynamics. He stressed the importance of digital transformation and sustainable practices in shaping the future of the industry.
The event also saw the presence of notable industry experts and leaders, including A M Singh, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest & HOFF, Assam; Dr. Himanshu Talwar, industry expert; Rajiv Mehra, President of IATO; Rajneesh Sharma, Vice President of MakeMyTrip.com; Manya Joshi, Events Industry Strategist; and Harsh Wardhan, Security Strategist & Former Group MD & CEO of G4S.
R K Suman, Regional Director of Tourism, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, delivered a speech on the role of tourism in economic growth. He outlined the various initiatives undertaken by the ministry to promote tourism and the significant impact of the sector on India’s GDP and employment. The Chief Guest Address was delivered by G P Upadhyaya, Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Sikkim.
