The Skål International India National Congress 2025, held from September 12 to 14 at the iconic Sahara Star Hotel, Mumbai, concluded with unprecedented success, marking a historic milestone for the organization. The three-day event attracted over 200 delegates from across India and abroad, all paying full congress fees, setting a record for participation and reflecting the growing significance of the forum.
The congress featured several distinguished personalities, including Maneka Gandhi, Shashi Tharoor, Pooja Bedi, Subhash Ghai, and Zayed Khan, who added prestige and inspiration to the occasion. The event commenced with the Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the fiscal year 2024–2025, preceded by the National Board meeting, where President Sanjeev Mehra and Treasurer Monik Dharamshi presented transparent reports on finances and activities. Delegates praised the clarity and vision shared for 2025–2030, aimed at strengthening Skål’s presence in India and expanding global engagement.
A highlight of the congress was the launch of the Skål International Indian Excellence Awards 2025, recognizing exceptional contributions in club performance, innovation, sustainability, CSR, and young leadership. Winners included Skål Chennai (Best Performing Club), Skål Goa (Most Active Club), Skål Bangalore (Fastest Growing Club), and others. Special recognitions were awarded for global outreach, outstanding young engagement, and impactful community initiatives.
India’s leadership in the global Skål network was reaffirmed, with Skål International India now the largest Skål country worldwide, surpassing Skål USA. Four Indian clubs ranked among the global top ten, highlighting the country’s dynamic contribution to international tourism networking. Plans were unveiled to expand Skål clubs into every Indian state and Union Territory and to implement twinning initiatives that enhance collaboration, mentoring, and opportunities among members.
The congress also emphasized sustainability, aligning with UNWTO and Skål International’s global sustainability ethos. Organizers implemented environmentally responsible practices, minimizing food and water waste, avoiding single-use plastics, and promoting eco-conscious behavior among delegates.
Looking ahead, the finalists for the 2026 National Congress were announced—Skål Jaipur, Skål Coimbatore, and Skål Jammu & Kashmir—generating excitement for the next edition. Skål International India also reaffirmed its ambition to host the Skål International World Congress and the Asia Congress, positioning India as a key hub for global tourism leadership.
The 2025 congress has set a new benchmark for Skål International India, showcasing the country’s growing influence in global tourism, fostering collaboration, and exemplifying the philosophy of “Business Among Friends” through networking, innovation, and sustainable practices.
