The Skål International India National Congress 2025 concluded at the Sahara Star Hotel, Mumbai, after three days of record-breaking participation and landmark announcements. Held from September 12–14, the event brought together more than 200 delegates from across India and overseas, with all participants paying full congress fees — a first in the history of the gathering.
The inaugural evening was marked by glamour and prestige as prominent personalities, including Maneka Gandhi, Shashi Tharoor, Pooja Bedi, Subhash Ghai, and Zayed Khan, graced the occasion. Their presence added star power and gravitas to what became one of the most significant milestones in Skål India’s journey.
Transparency and Vision 2025–2030
The Annual General Meeting (AGM) for FY 2024–25 took place on the opening day, where President Sanjeev Mehra and Treasurer Monik Dharamshi presented detailed reports on finances and activities. Delegates lauded the leadership for its clarity and transparency. The roadmap for Vision 2025–2030 was also unveiled, outlining strategies to expand Skål’s footprint across India, strengthen member engagement, and deepen global linkages.
“This congress was not just about numbers; it was about values, vision, and vitality,” said Dr Mukesh Batra, President, Skål International Mumbai South, the host club. “We were proud to welcome Skålleagues from across India and abroad to celebrate friendship, collaboration, and meaningful business networking.”
Skål International Indian Excellence Awards 2025
A key highlight of the congress was the launch of the Skål International Indian Excellence Awards 2025, introduced by the national board to recognise achievements across 10 categories, including club performance, membership growth, innovation, sustainability, and community impact.
“The Excellence Awards were not merely trophies; they represented the dedication and creativity of Skålleagues driving this movement forward,” said Sanjeev Mehra. “Our vision for the next five years is about collective growth — more clubs, stronger retention, deeper engagement, and a stronger Indian voice on the global stage.”
India Took Global Leadership Role
India’s leadership in the Skål movement was reaffirmed during the congress as the country officially became the largest Skål nation in the world by membership, surpassing the USA. Several Indian clubs also ranked among the global top 10, reflecting India’s dynamic contribution to international tourism networking.
Ambitious plans were announced to establish Skål clubs in every Indian state and Union Territory. A new initiative of “twinning” clubs within India was also introduced to encourage collaboration, mentoring, and shared opportunities.
“India is now firmly at the centre of global Skål activity,” said Shekhar Divadkar, President, Skål International Asia. “The future of Skål lies in Asia, and India is leading the way.”
NSN Mohan, Deputy Vice President and Director Region 10, Skål International, added: “Skål blended business with friendship, creating a unique ecosystem for collaboration and sustainable growth. India’s role will be central to this journey.”
Business, Culture, and Sustainability
The programme featured networking sessions, fireside chats, and celebrations of the 200+ events hosted by Skål clubs nationwide over the past year. Delegates also enjoyed evenings filled with Bollywood-inspired performances, blending culture with camaraderie.
Sustainability was a central theme throughout the event. Organisers implemented environmentally responsible measures, including minimising food and water waste, discouraging single-use plastics, and reducing paper use, in alignment with UNWTO and Skål International’s global ethos.
Looking Ahead
The venue for the Skål International India National Congress 2026 was officially announced during the closing session, generating enthusiasm among delegates. Skål International India also reiterated its ambition to host both the Skål International World Congress and the Skål International Asia Congress in the near future, further positioning the country as a global hub of tourism leadership.
A Landmark Gathering
With record attendance, the launch of the Excellence Awards, strengthened global positioning, and a strong sustainability agenda, the Skål International India National Congress 2025 was hailed as a landmark in the association’s history. More than an annual gathering, it set a new benchmark for Skål events worldwide — a celebration of unity, progress, and vision.
