CULTURAL TOURISM INDIA
Jawaharlal Nehru obstructed Somnath temple reconstruction but Vallabhbhai Patel's firm resolve prevailed: Yogi Adityanath
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath alleged that Jawaharlal Nehru obstructed the Somnath temple's reconstruction and advised President Rajendra Prasad against attending its consecration, claiming the Congress undermined Hindu faith. Adityanath drew parallels to Prime Minister Modi's efforts in strengthening India's pride and Sanatan heritage, referencing the Ayodhya Ram temple and other religious projects.
Reports again raise spectre of 'demolition' of Patna's Sultan Palace, spark outcry
The Bihar Cabinet has greenlit plans for a luxurious five-star heritage hotel at the Sultan Palace, a remarkable edifice constructed in 1922. However, whispers of potential demolition loom large over this historic site, igniting passionate pleas from heritage advocates.
India's first Petroglyph Conservation Park to be set up in Ladakh
Lt Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena lays foundation stone for India’s first petroglyph conservation park in Leh on World Heritage Day. The park aims to protect Ladakh’s ancient rock carvings threatened by tourism and development. An MoU with ASI supports preservation, while efforts will relocate endangered artefacts and promote curated heritage circuits with community participation.
At 75, Kerala woman makes tea and serves snacks on a boat. Her floating shop is winning hearts online for its simplicity
In Kerala's Kumarakom, 75-year-old Shantamma, known as Chaya Chachi, operates a unique floating tea stall. For over a decade, she has been rowing her boat to serve hot masala tea and local snacks to visitors in the backwaters. Despite challenges like monsoons and logistics, her entrepreneurial spirit has made her a cultural highlight.
Piyush Goyal engages with South Korean, Austrian leadership to deepen economic ties
Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, advanced India's trade agenda through a series of diplomatic engagements on Thursday, holding a virtual meeting with South Korean Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo and an in-person session with Austrian Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker. The meetings, focused on bilateral investment and technological synergy, resulted in the signing of a new mechanism aimed at accelerating business resolutions between India and Austria.
Akasa Air to launch direct Mumbai–Hanoi flights from September 4
Akasa Air will launch direct flights between Mumbai and Hanoi from September 4, 2026, marking its entry into Vietnam and expanding its international network. The airline will operate four weekly flights on the route. The move aims to boost travel demand and strengthen connectivity between India and Southeast Asia, particularly as Vietnam gains popularity among Indian travellers.
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Modi pitches 10% cut in edible oil use, pushes natural farming and millets
Narendra Modi urged a 10% cut in cooking oil consumption to tackle obesity, while promoting yoga, healthy eating and natural farming, as he highlighted preventive healthcare, expanded Ayushman Bharat coverage for the elderly, and called for sustainable, self-reliant lifestyles.
ET Women Conclave 2026 spotlights leadership, reinvention, and powerful conversations
The ET Women Conclave 2026, presented by Dalcore Projects Pvt. Ltd., convened leaders and changemakers at Grand Hyatt Gurgaon to celebrate women driving impact. Discussions spanned purpose, leadership, reinvention, and mental toughness, featuring insights from prominent figures across various sectors. The event highlighted evolving aspirations and inclusive growth in India's leadership landscape.
India’s hotel expansion gains pace, draws institutional capital into real estate fold
India's hotel sector is set for robust growth, with operators planning over 70,000 new rooms by 2030. Driven by strong domestic travel and rising incomes, the industry is experiencing structural maturity with calibrated expansion and stable pricing. Investment is surging, particularly in leisure and pilgrimage destinations, as asset-light models gain traction.
Orange economy rises: Creativity fuels India's growth story
Emerging as a vital part of India's economic framework, the 'orange economy' harnesses creativity to generate both intellectual property and employment opportunities. This dynamic sector fuels growth across tourism, hospitality, and retail markets, with cultural celebrations such as Durga Puja showcasing its robust economic influence.
Manifestos were earlier ceremonial, now symbol of proactive and accountable government: JP Nadda
Addressing an event in Thiruvananthapuram, the former BJP chief stated that the people used to forget what promises were made during elections after two to three years, and the same manifesto was presented in the upcoming polls. He noted that at present, a new culture has been set up, which reflects responsive, responsible, proactive, and accountable government.
Anand Mahindra is in awe of Jharkhand’s hidden gem 'land of seven hundred hills', sitting 4,300 feet above sea level, reveals why it is perfect for offbeat travellers
Anand Mahindra, who is very popular on social media, has spotlighted Jharkhand's hidden beauty, Meghahatuburu in Jharkhand's West Singhbhum district. Meghahatuburu is spread across 700 hills and is known for its breathtaking landscapes and scenic beauty. Anand Mahindra pointed out that Meghahatuburu has a sunset point, forest waterfalls, and a landscape, making it a perfect destination for offbeat travellers.
Amit Shah reviews Manipur law and order situation with CM Yumnam Khemchand Singh
Union Home Minister Amit Shah met Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh. They discussed the state's law and order situation. Shah urged acceleration of the peace process and consolidation of community bonhomie. He also agreed to raise a Mahila India Reserve Battalion for Manipur. Ministerial expansion is another key issue being discussed.
Tourism and hospitality ecosystem: Will it get hit harder due to the war’s second-order effect? 20 stocks to keep an eye on
The one thing that impacts the tourism and hospitality sector most is war. The reason is simple: Flights get disrupted, and the urge to travel takes a back seat. And there is a chain reaction. Disrupted or expensive flights not only mean trouble for airlines, but also for other players in the tourism ecosystem. Check out Stock Reports Plus, powered by Refinitiv, for price targets of over 4,000 listed stocks, along with detailed company analysis focusing on five key components – earnings, fundamentals, relative valuation, risk, and price momentum – to generate standardised scores. SR+ Reports is a complimentary offering to ETPrime members.
FICCI FLO annual session: Empowering 16 lakh women for Viksit Bharat 2047
The organization focused on entrepreneurship, skilling, and livelihood creation. A new report was released detailing gender diversity challenges and opportunities in India's services sector.
IndiGo starts daily Kolkata–Shanghai flights to boost India–China connectivity
IndiGo has launched a daily non-stop flight connecting Kolkata and Shanghai from March 29, 2026, enhancing air links between India and China. This new service, utilizing A320neo aircraft, aims to meet growing demand for business and leisure travel, facilitating trade and economic engagement. The route expands IndiGo's presence in China, now operating 21 weekly flights to the mainland.
Indians are changing travel plans amid global disruptions; Thailand, Sri Lanka, Japan see surge in bookings
Short- and medium-haul destinations like Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Japan are seeing a rise in demand.
Assam elections: BJP's Sonowal launches poll campaign, says Barak Valley now key economic hub
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launched his campaign in Assam's Barak Valley. He stated the region is now a gateway to Southeast Asia. This transformation occurred under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. The BJP's vision of integration drives Assam's development. Connectivity and infrastructure projects are boosting the region's economy and strategic importance.
Jewar airport to boost jobs, investment, says aviation minister Naidu
The Noida International Airport at Jewar is set to become a major economic hub. Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu stated the airport will create numerous employment opportunities. The project integrates cargo infrastructure and aims to boost local manufacturing access to markets.
What can you do with Rs 20,000 in Singapore for 1 day: Digital creator shares travel guide
Digital creator Cassy Pereira explored Singapore for a day on a Rs 20,000 budget. His adventure included Universal Studios, Chinatown, Haji Lane, the Museum of Ice Cream, and a free lakeside relaxation. The day concluded with wine and pizza at Marina Bay Sands and a visit to Gardens by the Bay.
ET Industry Achievers AP and Telangana honours leaders and innovators in Hyderabad
Hyderabad hosted the ET Industry Achievers – AP & Telangana 2025-26, celebrating leadership and innovation. Actor Boman Irani graced the event as chief guest, honouring 35 individuals and organisations across diverse sectors. The awards recognised significant contributions to industry and society, highlighting the dynamic growth of both states. Irani shared his success mantra, emphasizing perseverance and ethical conduct.
IndiGo to launch direct Delhi–Colombo flights from March 29, expands Sri Lanka network
IndiGo is launching direct flights from Delhi to Colombo on March 29, operating six times weekly. This expansion enhances travel options between India and Sri Lanka, bolstering historical, cultural, and economic ties. The new service adds to IndiGo's extensive network, offering over 55 weekly flights to Colombo from five Indian cities, further strengthening its presence in the region.
Comprehensively review maintenance standards at UNESCO sites: Par panel to govt
A parliamentary panel has urged the culture ministry to review India's UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A plan for upgrading maintenance and visitor facilities is recommended. The ministry must also develop a five-year strategy for new nominations. This aims to align site management with global recognition. The Archaeological Survey of India receives significant funding for monument upkeep.
NIOS 2026 exam schedule released for Class 10 and 12 theory papers: Check full schedule and how steps to download
NIOS has unveiled the April 2026 exam schedule for Class 10 and 12 theory papers, commencing April 10 and concluding May 6. Practical exams are ongoing until April 1. Most theory exams will be held in the afternoon. Students can access the full schedule on the NIOS website. Results are anticipated approximately seven weeks post-exams.
Air India launches Delhi–Rome direct flight, expands Europe network
Air India has relaunched its non-stop service between Delhi and Rome, marking a return to the Italian capital after nearly six years. Operating four weekly flights, the airline aims to strengthen connectivity and cater to growing travel demand between the two nations. This expansion further bolsters Air India's mainland European network.
Maharashtra emerges as event tourism hub, Airbnb report flags surge in travel demand
Maharashtra's travel scene is changing. Concerts, sports, and festivals are bringing more visitors. People are staying longer and spending more. This boosts local economies. Events like Coldplay concerts and the Cricket World Cup saw big jumps in bookings. Music festivals are also a major draw. Younger travelers are planning trips around these events.
Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport proposes measures to reduce road accidents, clear backlog of road projects with NHAI
A Parliamentary committee has proposed specific annual reduction targets for road accidents and fatalities, alongside a dedicated National Highway Safety Patrol. Recommendations also include conditioning new NHAI contracts on backlog clearance and shifting to Zero-Based Maintenance Budgeting. The committee further suggested a "Last Mile Task Force" for the Bharatmala project and joint missions for port connectivity.
From frozen marathons at Pangong Lake to snorkeling in Lakshadweep, govt pushes niche tourism in UTs
India is promoting diverse niche tourism across its Union Territories. Initiatives include astro-tourism, eco-tourism, and adventure sports. Ladakh is hosting frozen marathons, while Andaman and Nicobar Islands are developing eco-resorts. Lakshadweep is enhancing its luxury tent resorts. These efforts aim to boost local economies and showcase unique offerings.
End of an era? Hanoi plans to stop trains on viral café street
Hanoi plans to reroute trains away from its famous railway café street. This move aims to end a popular tourist experience. Trains will no longer pass through the narrow section. The city seeks to preserve historical sites like Long Bien Bridge. This is part of a larger urban upgrade plan. Vietnam Railways has warned of safety risks in the area.
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