Skål International India has marked a historic milestone with the grand inauguration of Skål International Kashmir, its 20th club in the country, further strengthening India’s footprint in global tourism networks. In a first for the organisation, the club was inaugurated by Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at the iconic Taj Dal View in Srinagar, underscoring the government’s strong support for tourism-led socio-economic growth in the valley.
The installation ceremony followed official Skål protocols, including oath-taking, pinning of office-bearers, presentation of certificates and special recognitions, signalling the formal integration of Kashmir’s tourism professionals into Skål’s global B2B ecosystem. Skål International Kashmir’s leadership for 2025–26 includes President Sk Zahoor Ahmad Qari, Vice Presidents Sk Showket Ahmad Pakhtoon and Sk Shamim A Shah, Secretary Sk Ather Yameen Narwari, Treasurer Sk Mir Anwar, Membership Development Officer Sk Tanveer Ahmad Khan, Director – PR, Communications & CSR Sk Irshad Hazari, and Auditor Sk Rahil Patloo.
The new club follows closely on the launch of Skål International Jammu & Kashmir earlier this year as India’s 19th club, highlighting Skål India’s rapid expansion and its vision of having at least one club in every State and Union Territory, with multiple chapters in high-potential tourism regions. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Skål leaders including Mohan NSN and Sanjeev Mehra emphasized that Kashmir’s emotional appeal, global visibility and strong B2B networking opportunities will help drive sustainable tourism, investment and employment while showcasing the region’s “paradise on earth” image to the world.
Skål International India reiterated its commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism, deeper collaboration with local stakeholders and enhanced international linkages to support long-term growth of the valley’s tourism economy. The inauguration evening, enriched with Kashmiri music, culture and camaraderie, reflected unity, pride and Skål’s enduring motto of “Doing Business Among Friends” as the organisation continues to build tourism leadership and professional exchange across India.
