During the 54th Annual Convention of the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) in Goa, the organisation honoured significant contributors to the hospitality industry.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was posthumously given to the Late Prithvi Singh Oberoi, former Executive Chairman of EIH Limited, for his transformative impact on Indian hospitality.
Additionally, three leaders were inducted into the Hall of Fame: Dr Ajit B Kerkar, former Chairman and Managing Director of the Taj Group of Hotels, recognised for his role in expanding the brand globally; Late Capt C P Krishnan Nair, founder of The Leela Group of Hotels, acknowledged for establishing it as a luxury name; and Lalit Suri, founder of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, honoured for his contributions to luxury hotel expansion in India.
Pradeep Shetty, President of FHRAI said, “Today, we stand on the shoulders of giants who have shaped the hospitality landscape and set the benchmark for service. The legacies of these individuals remind us of the commitment and passion required to provide hospitality. Their contributions have transformed our industry, ensuring that we continue to offer experiences to our guests.”
Key insights on India's hospitality sector from FHRAI Convention
Key figures in tourism and hospitality, including Suman Billa, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, outlined the significant growth anticipated in India's hospitality industry
During the FHRAI Hospitality Awards Convention, key figures in tourism and hospitality, including Suman Billa, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, outlined the significant growth anticipated in India's hospitality industry.
Billa underscored the significant investment needs for India’s tourism sector, which is expected to reach a market size of Rs two million crore by 2029. He said, "India is on a long-term growth cycle, but to maintain this momentum, we require an additional investment of Rs 6.5 million crore. We have already identified the need for Rs 8,72,000 crore in investment to meet our ambitious goals."
He emphasised the importance of reforming capital structures, especially by shifting hotels from the real estate lending list to the infrastructure list. This would enable lower interest rates on debt and longer repayment periods. If the government can create the right conditions for entrepreneurial growth, investments—both domestic and international—will flow into the tourism and hospitality sectors. India's tourism growth story is only just beginning."
The day also featured an inspirational speech by South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes, who spoke passionately about India's global impact, not only in sports but across industries. "India has transformed from 'Incredible India' to 'Inevitable India.' Everyone wants to be here, and we have seen tremendous growth, particularly in cricket and tourism. It's exciting to see the passion and energy driving this transformation. The FHRAI Convention is playing a key role in highlighting these possibilities and creating a roadmap for growth, making India not just a destination, but an unforgettable experience for visitors across the world." said Rhodes, sharing his experiences with the Mumbai Indians cricket team and their shared journey in India.
The event also recognised significant contributions in hospitality, with the Hotel Entrepreneur Award presented to Anju Timblo for her leadership in luxury hospitality. The convention emphasised the need for ongoing collaboration to promote tourism as a vital component of India's economic development.
