Mumbai became the meeting ground for hospitality’s most influential voices as industry leaders gathered to debate growth, policy and the road ahead.
Mumbai hosted the 20th Regional Convention of the Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) (HRAWI) at Taj Lands End, marking a significant milestone in the association’s journey. The convention coincided with HRAWI’s 75th Platinum Jubilee, celebrating decades of representation and leadership within India’s hospitality industry.
The event brought together senior industry leaders, government dignitaries and hospitality stalwarts on a single platform to deliberate on growth, policy priorities and the future trajectory of the sector.
Focus on three foundational pillars
In his keynote address, Dr Shashi Tharoor, Chief Guest, Member of Parliament and Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, urged the industry to align its growth strategy with national development goals.
“The industry must focus on three foundational pillars — image, infrastructure, and immigration.”
Dr Tharoor highlighted that strengthening these three areas would be critical to achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 and enhancing India’s global hospitality positioning.
Strong participation from government and industry
With Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) as the state partner, the convention saw participation from senior officials and industry leaders, including Mohamed Farouk, Regional Director (Western & Central Region), India Tourism Mumbai, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India; Neelesh Gatne (IAS), Managing Director, MTDC; and Surendra Kumar Jaiswal, President, Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), along with past presidents and hospitality stalwarts.
The presence of key stakeholders underscored the convention’s role as a platform linking policy discourse with industry realities.
Platform for future-focused dialogue
Dr Atul Patne, Principal Secretary, Tourism Department, Government of Maharashtra, emphasised that the convention — held during HRAWI’s Platinum Jubilee year — provided an important forum to discuss the next phase of sustainable and technology-led growth for the hospitality industry.
HRAWI President Jimmy Shaw described the convention as both a celebration and a reaffirmation of intent.
“This milestone convention is not just a celebration of HRAWI’s 75-year legacy but also a reaffirmation of their commitment to shaping the future of Indian hospitality.”
