Srinagar, May 31, 2025 — In a momentous occasion for the Indian tourism industry, the Skål
International Jammu & Kashmir club was officially installed today, marking a significant
milestone in the organization’s expansion across the country. The installation and inaugural
ceremony, held at The Countryside Resort & Banquets in Srinagar was a grand success, with
Skål International India board members and members of the Jammu & Kashmir tourism
community in attendance.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of Farooq Ahmad Shah, Member Legislative
Assembly, Jammu & Kashmir, as the Chief Guest. In his address, Shah said, “Tourism is the
backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, and it is heartening to see the Skål
International Jammu & Kashmir club taking shape. I am confident that this club will play a
vital role in promoting the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, and I wish the
members all the best in their endeavours.”
This landmark event is a testament to the resilience and growth of the Jammu and Kashmir
tourism industry, and Skål India’s commitment to establishing a strong presence in every
state and union territory of the country. The installation of the Jammu & Kashmir club brings
the total number of Skål clubs in India to 19, further solidifying the organization’s position as
the world’s largest network of tourism industry professionals in leadership roles.
“We are thrilled to embark on this new journey as part of the Skål International family,” said
Abdul Wahid Malik, President, Skål International Jammu & Kashmir. “Our aim is to foster a
spirit of collaboration and innovation within the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir. We
are committed to working tirelessly to promote the region’s rich cultural heritage and
breathtaking landscapes to the world.”
Sanjeev Mehra, President, Skål International India, added, “The installation of the Jammu &
Kashmir club is a game-changer for the region’s tourism industry. It reflects our
commitment to expanding Skål’s presence across India and empowering local tourism
professionals. We are confident that this club will play a vital role in promoting tourism and
hospitality in the region, and we look forward to working closely with them to achieve our
goals.”
NSN Mohan, Deputy Vice President and Director, Region 10, Skål International,
congratulated the Jammu & Kashmir club on their installation. “This is a momentous
occasion not just for Jammu and Kashmir but for the entire Indian tourism industry. The
resilience and determination shown by the tourism industry in Jammu and Kashmir are truly
inspiring, and we are proud to be a part of it. We look forward to working with the club to
promote tourism and hospitality in the region and to achieve our goals.”
The event was marked by valuable discussions, forward-thinking suggestions, and a shared
vision for collaborative growth in the tourism and hospitality sector. Congratulations poured
in from not only Indian clubs but also from Skål clubs around the world, highlighting the
significance of this moment for the global tourism community.
The Office Bearers of the newly inaugurated club are:
- President – Sk Abdul Wahid Malik
- Vice President 1 – Sk Bashir Karnai
- Secretary – Sk Adil Hussain
- Treasurer – Sk Hilal Ahmed Dar
- Director, Young Skål – Sk Amir Lateef
- Director, PR & Comm – Sk Sameer Ahmad Baktoo
- Auditor – Sk Mohmed Akram Siah
As Skål International India continues its journey to foster professional camaraderie, build
bridges across borders, and create opportunities that benefit the industry and its
stakeholders, the installation of the Jammu & Kashmir club is a major step forward.
About Skål International India
Skål International India is part of Skål International, the world’s largest global network of
travel, tourism, and hospitality professionals in leadership roles, with over 13,000 members
across 85 countries. The organization is dedicated to promoting global tourism, business
ethics, and cultural understanding through its vast network of chapters and events.
For further information, kindly contact:
June Mukherjee
Director PR & Communications
Skål International India
Email: directorprskalindia@gmail.com
