News Shorts - 3rd India-Indonesia Defence Ministers’ Dialogue

By - Amit kumaR Agarwal

The Minister of Defense of Indonesia, Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin inspecting the Tri-Service Guard of Honour ahead of the third India-Indonesia Defence Ministers’ Dialogue, in New Delhi on November 27, 2025.

The dialogue looks at fostering strategic alliances and better the ongoing alliances between the two nations.

News Shorts - Safran Aircraft Engine Services, India

By - Amit kumaR Agarwal

The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi addressed at the inauguration of the Safran Aircraft Engine Services India facility in Hyderabad, Telangana via video conferencing on November 26, 2025.

The PM highlighted the way the aviation sector has grown in the last decade. The allied sectors have complemented this growth. The PM highlighted the way aviation sector is one of the strongest pillars of the booming Indian economy.

IFFI 2025 l Shekhar Kapur Leads Visionary Dialogue on the Future of Cinema

By - Amit kumaR Agarwal

56th International Film Festival of India, after getting off to a flying start is going strong!

The sixth day of IFFI 2025 featured a thought-provoking masterclass titled “The New AI Cinema: A Discourse on Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs)”, bringing together eminent voices from technology and cinema to discuss the rapidly evolving landscape of AI-driven filmmaking.

Internationally acclaimed filmmaker, Shekhar Kapur led the panel that also had, techie Shankar Ramakrishnan and AI expert V. Muralitharan.

The session began with Ravi Kottarakara honouring Shekhar Kapur’s pioneering contributions to Indian cinema. He highlighted Kapur’s visionary approach to storytelling and filmmaking, with special mention of the film “Mr. India”, celebrated even today for its technical innovation and enduring cultural impact.

• AI: The Most Democratic Medium in Film Production

Initiating the discourse, Shekhar Kapur noted that the world has undergone a profound shift with the rise of artificial intelligence. He described AI as “the most democratic medium for filmmaking”, emphasising that it has dismantled traditional barriers and gatekeeping within the industry.

In an engaging anecdote, he shared how his cook created a script for Mr. India 2 using ChatGPT, illustrating the accessibility and empowerment AI tools bring to ordinary individuals.

He stated that AI is poised to redefine global cinema, offering unprecedented creative freedom. Noting India’s status as the nation with the world’s largest young population, he expressed confidence that this demographic strength will accelerate India’s leadership in the future of film technologies.

During the session, Kapur also explained the distinction between VFX and AI, clarifying that VFX involves creating or manipulating visuals digitally, whereas AI uses machine-learning models to automate, enhance, or generate elements of the filmmaking process.

• Technologists Demonstrate AI’s Practical Applications in Filmmaking

Technologists, Shankar Ramakrishnan and V. Muralitharan elaborated on the wide range of AI tools—such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini—that assist filmmakers in scripting, storyboarding, and designing shot descriptions, including lighting and camera requirements.

The duo showcased their AI-assisted film “The Turban and The Rock”, written by Raja Rao, explaining how various AI platforms and models were integrated into its creation.

• Audience Interaction and Demonstration of AI-Made Films

During the Q&A session, the panelists highlighted how AI can significantly support documentary filmmaking, archival restoration, and film education. They also screened an AI-generated short documentary titled “The Lost Legends”, offering audiences a glimpse into the capabilities of emerging creative technologies.

• Human Emotion at the Core of Cinema

Despite the rapid advancement of AI, Shekhar Kapur underlined that cinema’s essence lies in human emotion. He remarked that while AI can assist and accelerate processes, real artists remain essential for conveying genuine feeling and depth on screen.

• Tribute to Dharmendra

The masterclass concluded with a heartfelt tribute to legendary actor Dharmendra, honouring his immense contribution to Indian cinema.

Press Release l President's Secretariat

The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, graced the inaugural session of the third edition of the Indian Army’s Seminar, ‘Chanakya Defence Dialogue-2025’, in New Delhi today (November 27, 2025).

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the Indian Armed Forces have exemplified professionalism and patriotism in guarding the sovereignty of India. During every security challenge, whether conventional, counter-insurgency or humanitarian, our forces have displayed remarkable adaptability and resolve. The recent success of Operation Sindoor stands as a defining moment in our counter-terror and deterrence strategy. The world took note not only of India’s military capability but of India’s moral clarity to act firmly, yet responsibly, in the pursuit of peace. Beyond its operational role, the Indian defence forces remain a pillar of national development. Apart from strengthening our frontiers, they have also helped in border area development through infrastructure, connectivity, tourism and education.

The President said that today’s geopolitical landscape is changing rapidly. The international system is being rewritten by contesting power centres, technological disruptions and shifting alliances. New domains of competition - cyber, space, information and cognitive warfare are blurring the lines between peace and conflict. She stated that guided by our civilisational ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, we have shown that strategic autonomy can coexist with global responsibility. Our diplomacy, economy and armed forces together project an India that seeks peace, but is prepared to protect its borders and its citizens with strength and conviction.

The President was happy to note that the Army is transforming itself through quantifiable deliverables under the Decade of Transformation. It is reforming structures, re-orienting doctrines and redefining capabilities to be future-ready and mission-capable across all domains. She expressed confidence that these defence reforms will help in making India self-reliant.

The President noted that the Army is investing in youth and human capital. It is instilling patriotism in youth through education, NCC expansion and sports. She underlined that the expansion of the contribution of young women officers and soldiers, both in role and character, would promote the spirit of inclusion. It will also inspire more young women to join the Indian Army and take up other professions.

The President expressed confidence that the discussion and outcome of Chanakya Defence Dialogue-2025 will provide valuable insights to policymakers for shaping the future contours of our national policy. She was also confident that our armed forces will continue to strive for excellence and move ahead with resolve and determination to achieve the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

News Shorts - National Milk Day 2025

By - Amit kumaR Agarwal

The Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying and Panchayati Raj, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel attended the celebrations of ‘National Milk Day 2025’ along with the Minister of State for Minority Affairs and Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, George Kurian held at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan, in New Delhi on November 26, 2025.

The minister pointed out the giant strides industries across dairying sector and its allied products have taken under the proactive approach of the central government.

Hospitality, Travel, Tourism Series l Air India Express l Kapil Maan

By: Bhaarat Bol News Team

with Inputs by Amit kumaR Agarwal

Consumers are increasingly becoming demanding - with competition, social media and challenges in consumer satisfaction - airlines are really finding it  difficult to meet the expectations of the flyers.

It is at this juncture that the role of senior management and crew come in picture.

One such person the writer recently met is Kapil Maan. Duty Manager at the Goa Airport (GOI) he ensured that the writer had a smooth travel experience with Air India Express.

On his flight to New Delhi, the writer met Kapil, he ensured that the guest had a wonderful travel experience. 

He made the onboarding process very simple. As the writing team walked towards the security; he ensured a differently-abled person had a smooth process of check-in.

These small nitty-gritties are what make the flying, experiential flying!

WTM London 2025 l Films, Content Reels, boosting tourism

By - Amit kumaR Agarwal

TV stars share travel marketing tips at WTM London

British TV stars Bettany Hughes and Maisie Adam took to the stage at WTM London to share their tips about marketing travel and holidays.

Comedian and star of Taskmaster and A League of Their Own, Maisie Adam, spoke on the marketing summit panel ‘Comedy Sells’ whereby she told delegates: “It’s about making the ordinary, extraordinary”, as she recalled interviews with passengers about etiquette on planes. Having worked with several tourism boards, Adam went on to explain “There is a human element to travel…we have to grab [consumers] with more than just where it is. You don’t have to show off Machu Picchu; you could be at an airport talking about the mundane”.

The comedian showed clips from her recent Swiss tourism film, which featured activities such as sliding down a bobsleigh run and trying a fondue. Adam said: “It’s about telling a story well and enjoying yourself. Other people see you’re having a great laugh, so they want to come and find out more”. She closed by telling the audience: “Humour is a special language…and a great tool for connection.”

On the panel, was also West Midlands Growth Company, including a screening of the brand’s recent marketing video featuring Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi, a tour guide called William, who dresses as William Shakespeare, a taxi driver, a chef and a ballet dancer.

“A West Midlands Welcome” was produced by BBC Storyworks, the commercial content studio of BBC Studios, showcasing the region’s varied culture, sights and food to the US and Canadian markets. Martin Clarke, Senior Tourism Marketing Manager at West Midlands Growth Company, said the humorous story-telling approach “hit the nail on the head”.

The region welcomed a record number of visitors over the past year, with overseas travellers up 2% year on year, including a “big chunk” from North America.

Naomi Taylor, BBC Storyworks Managing Editor, explained how extensive research went into finding real people who were “passionate advocates” for their region.

Ursula Horne, Head of Insights at BBC Studios, said they used the “science of engagement” to study how viewers of the videos responded to the content and found it humorous, surprising and thought-provoking.

Later, a marketing session featuring historian and broadcaster Bettany Hughes, in conversation with Wanderlust Editor-in-Chief, George Kipouros, heard how culture, history and heritage can encourage a deeper understanding of destinations, with her TV shows attracting 450 million viewers around the world last year.

Hughes shared clips of some of her history documentaries, featuring the temple at Ephesus, the Magura Cave complex and a rose festival in Bulgaria, and Nabataean sites from Saudi Arabia to Jordan. Clips from some shows have gone viral, she said, as people were fascinated by artefacts such as a 2,000-year-old Bulgarian perfume bottle and colourful paint pots from Pompeii.

Musing on her Seven Wonders of the Ancient World series, she said: “Wonder proves what we can do if we collaborate. If we wonder, we engage; if we engage, we care; if we care, we understand; and if we understand, we love. Travelling with wonder is literally an act of love. Wonder makes us feel good and you guys should be selling it.”

Another marketing session explored 12 factors which motivate travellers, ranging from curiosity and happiness to mentorship, serendipity and empathy. Journalist Ash Bhardwaj used examples from his own travels – ranging from a school rugby trip to New Zealand to walking in Uganda and raving in Ibiza – to show how storytelling can inspire travel.

He warned there is now so much AI-generated content online that using it can lead to “rubbish”, adding: “Real news stories generated by journalists and storytellers will still matter. AI will not find what is new and interesting.”

Elsewhere, another marketing session looked at how Generation Alpha – those born between 2010 and 2024 – are already redefining travel. Food futurist Tony Hunter said this generation is “deeply attached” to technology, and by the age of nine, they have access to at least four devices. They are also the gateway to the wallets of their millennial parents, he said.

Hunter outlined technological advances in generative AT, biowearables and quantum computing that will accelerate change in food tech and the shift to greater personalisation, adding: “These technologies are science fact and their impact will be felt. “Catering to Gen A now ensures the relevance of the travel industry for decades to come.”

Hospitality, Travel & Tourism l Zostel Anjuna, Goa

By: Bhaarat Bol News Team

Hospitality is one of the most demanding sectors in the service-industry; it is particularly defined by the quality of staff employed at the property.

Luxury properties with bad staff is no good; but an average property with an amazing staff can give the travelers and guests experiential high!

The team from Bhaarat Bol News recently visited Zostel in Anjuna, Goa. The experience was very good.

Right from front office effectively handled by Sahil Kambli and Abhishek Patil to the kitchen handled by Abhishek Singh - everything was wonderful!

The property manager, Joham Rajesh Fernandes said that his take is that all the guests coming in at the property should get the experiential high, "else there is no point of me being at the property," he smiles.

Smile for sure is what staying at Zostel, Anjuna brings to you!

WTM London 2025 l Travel industry growth to outpace global economy, says WTM Global Travel Report

By - Amit kumaR Agarwal

The travel industry is set to grow at a faster pace than the global economy over the next 10 years, according to the World Travel Market Global Travel Report.

Released today (4th November) on the first day of WTM London, the report says: “Over the next decade, the industry is on track to post annual growth of 3.5%, surpassing global economic growth of 2.5% per year over the same period.”

By 2035, the travel industry is expected to generate more than $16 trillion globally, representing nearly 12% of global GDP, according to WTTC’s 2025 economic impact research, conducted in collaboration with Oxford Economics.

These optimistic projections come as the global travel industry reached record levels in 2025, with international arrivals set to top 1.5 billion, surpassing the previous record achieved in 2019.

The report outlines key reasons for the growth forecasts, saying more travellers will be heading further afield and booking longer stays.

Continued economic growth in emerging markets, especially in Asia Pacific, will also fuel more travel.

More broadly, consumers are prioritising their spending on travel, which remains a high share of overall expenditure, despite increasing costs in many parts of the world.

Furthermore, people are increasingly buying experiences rather than material items, and live events are a key driver in this sector.

The report notes: “Destinations are actively encouraging major touring artists to host events in their cities following the successes of a series of high-profile concerts, including Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour – attended by more than 10 million people – and Oasis’ Live ’25 Tour, which is set to attract nearly two million fans across 13 countries in 2025.”

Other trends continue to shape the market, with many more tourists heading off the beaten track or booking trips in shoulder seasons to avoid high summer temperatures.

Travel’s environmental impact is expected to come under increasing scrutiny. However, with consumers resistant to paying more, it will be difficult to swiftly fund the modernisation needed to improve sustainability.

Northern locations have an opportunity due to the ‘coolcations’ trend, adds the report, with arrivals to Sweden, Norway and Finland expected to grow by 9% in 2025, outpacing more traditional summer destinations.

However, bucket list destinations are set to remain popular as iconic and must-see places continue to benefit from powerful social media exposure, notes the report.

Expansion is predicted in the aviation, cruise and accommodation sectors.

More than 15,000 new aircraft are on the order books of Boeing and Airbus; global cruise deployment is on track to increase by almost 6% in 2025; and more than 500,000 new hotel rooms will open this year, with a further one million being built.

The report confirms that digital platforms are also driving growth, with social media, online travel agents and review sites growing in popularity. AI has quickly become a major driver of demand, with three times as many travel professionals saying AI tools will help to increase, rather than decrease, overall travel spend.

Nonetheless, the report also notes: “While the outlook for travel is strong, economic and geopolitical headwinds are an immediate concern.”

It says trade tariffs announced by the Trump administration are adding to business costs, while industry continues to face a skills shortage.

While there are prospects for growth in most regions, the immediate outlook in North America is “less optimistic”, says the report, with inbound arrivals to the United States set to decrease 6% in 2025 – meaning that 2019 peak levels are unlikely to be regained until 2029.

Chris Carter-Chapman, WTM London’s Event Director, says: “With the accelerating rate of change in travel, our event and content such as this report will support industry professionals as they navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead.

“The WTM Global Travel Report reflects this year’s theme of ‘Reimagining Travel in a Changing World’ and explores the topics that will be examined in more detail across our conference tracks, ranging from diversity and inclusion to geo-economics, sustainability, technology and trends.

“With travel at record levels and set to outpace the wider economy over the next 10 years, WTM London is the place to be in order to network, plan and make business deals.”

Dave Goodger, Managing Director EMEA at Tourism Economics, adds: “Our latest global travel trends report, produced in partnership with World Travel Market, provides an important manual for the industry to understand and capitalise on the ever-changing dynamics of global travel.”

Advertorial l Hi-Impact Confluence by Guftagu in association with Pearl Academy

11th November, West Delhi witnessed something truly powerful. The Hi-Impact Confluence Meet, West Delhi presented by Guftagu – Circle of Trust in association with Pearl Academy, brought together corporate leaders, investors, founders, institutions, and changemakers in one circle of purposeful connection.

This is an event curated by Mr. Rahul Jain founder of Guftagu , well anchored by Ms. Priyanka Jain (Cofunder, Guftagu)& guided by Ms. Meha Jayswal (Associate Dean, Pearl Academy) It was a morning where:

● Conversations carried depth

● Recognitions carried meaning

● Collaborations carried the promise of real change

One attendee summed it up beautifully: “I thought I came to attend an event. I’m leaving with a family I can trust.”

That’s exactly what makes Guftagu different — not just a platform, but a Circle of Trust where business meets purpose and people meet possibilities.

🌟 Event Highlights

● Recognitions that celebrated vision, leadership, and impact

● Networking that sparked authentic opportunities

● Collaborations poised to grow into long-term partnerships

● Dialogues on health, happiness, and sustainable growth

● Ideas that inspired many

The event commenced with a warm welcome note, followed by an engaging session where participants exchanged introductions and shared their experiences.

Our panelists offered valuable insights, inspiring the audience to take their entrepreneurial journey to the next level.

👤 Special Guests Who Added Tremendous Value were: 

• Hardik Acharya, CEO & Founder, i Angel Wealth, Managing Partner at Finolutions Pvt Ltd & Angel Investor 24 years of experience in financial services. 18 years in sales in the Asset and Wealth Management business.
• Rupam Borah, Founder and Chief Creative Officer Oneify | Innovating 360 Brand Experiences that drive 2× growth With over 25 years of experience in Advertising and Communication Design
• Sameer A. Karwal, Regional Head - SME Jana Small Finance Bank - Business & Finance Leader | SME Supply Chain | Credit Risk | Trade Finance | Wealth Management | Hero Fincorp
• Rashmani (Puri) Singh Managing Director at Vahani Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in English from Lady Shri Ram College for Women
• Varinder Kumar Verma, former Head - HR Strategy & Transformation (Corporate Human Resources) | Ex- Maruti suzuki India Limited| Executive committee member at NIPM
• Meha Jayswal, Associate Dean - Pearl Academy

We were delighted to see the active participation of the management team and students of Pearl Academy, who made the event truly special. The event was a masterclass in personalized networking, with attendees discussing their challenges and receiving real-time

feedback and guidance.

It was heartening to see the enthusiastic participation of young innovators, showcasing their fresh ideas and startup ventures. The event provided a unique opportunity for them to connect with industry experts and receive valuable mentorship, guidance, and insights to help shape their entrepreneurial journey.

🤝 Our Event Partners Who Made It Stronger

● Pear Academy – Global Institution of Excellence

● IDFC Bank- Banking Partner- Making banking easy

A big thank you to everyone who joined us, making the event a memorable experience. We're committed to continuing this journey, and we invite you to collaborate with us on future impact conferences and initiatives that drive growth and positive change.

Special thanks to the team at Pearl Academy, Ms. Meha Jaiswal, Anita mam,

and Manish ji, for their tireless efforts in making this event a success.

🌍 The Bigger Picture

The Hi-Impact Confluence Meet (III) was more than an event — it was a reminder that when trust drives networking, circles transform into catalysts for change.

This is only the beginning. With every circle, the impact compounds. Let's continue to connect, collaborate, and create a lasting impact!

WTM London 2025 l World’s most liveable, loveable and prosperous cities revealed during WTM London

By - Amit kumaR Agarwal

London has been ranked the World’s Best City for the 11th year in new research by Resonance, supported by Ipsos and revealed today at WTM London.

New York came second in the report and Paris third. Overall, the United States had the most cities in the 2026 Top 100 with 19, followed by Germany with eight and China with seven.

The 2026 World’s Best Cities Report scored global cities for their liveability – including access to green spaces, public transport and clean air; lovability – considering culture, nightlife and social media engagement; and prosperity – incorporating economic strength, educational attainment and air connectivity.

The report, presented by Resonance and Ipsos, was exclusively launched at WTM London during a press conference conducted by Chris Fair, Resonance President and CEO, and creator of World’s Best Cities.

It combines global user-generated data, core statistical performance, and new proprietary research – including a landmark Ipsos survey of more than 21,000 respondents across 30 countries, to create the world’s most comprehensive cities ranking.

London secured its first place by scoring first for prosperity, second for lovability and third for liveability in the research.

New York was helped to second place by its ongoing investment in its cultural economy, massive urban infrastructure projects, and the continued global infatuation with the city, despite the US political shift from globalisation affecting ‘brand perceptions’.

Third placed Paris is meanwhile noted to be thriving as a future-focused city with an historic backdrop.

The Top 10 World’s Best Cities for 2026 are:

1. London

2. New York

3. Paris

4. Tokyo

5. Madrid

6. Singapore

7. Rome

8. Dubai

9. Berlin

10. Barcelona

The report also highlights issues currently affecting cities. These include the climate effects of extreme heat, urban wildfires and water shortages and the need for energy transition.

The uneven post-covid rebound of international demand was another challenge as were, for some countries, shifting global perceptions.

Chris Fair, President & CEO of Resonance Consultancy said: “For leaders shaping tomorrow’s urban landscape – whether through capital allocation, location strategy, infrastructure development, or destination marketing – this report offers more than rankings.

“It provides strategic intelligence, risk assessment, and a roadmap to the cities and opportunities defining the next decade of global growth.”

Chris Carter-Chapman, Event Director at WTM London said: We’re delighted to hear London has once again been named the World’s Best City. This recognition reinforces why WTM London, the most influential travel and tourism event globally, is proudly hosted here. London’s status as a global hub for industry innovation, deal-making and strategic partnerships makes it the perfect home for shaping the future of travel.”

There was more city trends news in this year’s WTM Global Travel Report, produced in association with Tourism Economics, which was unveiled on the opening day of WTM London.

Cities are seeing particularly strong growth for international tourism, the report says, reversing a shift to more rural destinations during and following the pandemic.

The world’s 50 largest city destinations will this year see international visits exceed 2019 volumes by almost one-quarter. This compares to growth of 5% for all country destinations.

In fact, the world’s 100 largest city destinations are seeing similar overperformance and the trend is expected to continue through to the end of the decade.

A recovery in business travel, a renewed interest in cultural tourism and events, and improved connectivity are all credited with contributing to the recent boom.

By 2023 the 50 largest city destinations are predicted to see additional arrivals of more than 40% compared to this year, while globally, country destinations are expected to record an increase of one-third.

Dubai and Bangkok are particularly highlighted by the trends report. Both are expected to see growth of 50% or more in leisure arrivals in the next five years.

New York and Los Angeles are meanwhile predicted to see around 30% more arrivals and London, Istanbul and Tokyo 20% or more. The trend is similar for several smaller cities including Tunis and Sydney (both +50%) and Lima and Cape Town (both +40%).

WTM London, the most influential travel and tourism event in the world, has its own impact on the UK’s largest city, having contributed approximately £200 million to the London economy over last year’s event according to data from VisitBritain and research by Deloitte.

Hospitality, Travel, Tourism Series l Air India Express l Soumya

By: Bhaarat Bol News Team

There is a push on experiential services more than ever before now; airlines too, are ensuring it both to retain customers flying with them as well as for global ratings.

The fact that social media has made everyone a critic hasn't eased out things for service-providers; no wonder, today employees have become the biggest asset to enhance the reputation on social media. 

On one such flight recently the team met, Soumya. She welcomed the guests in the serpentine queue with a war smile and guided them to a counter that was not crowded. This delegation not only utlized the counter, but also eased traffic on the over-burdened dfunctioning counter.

Then, Trazel Dias, executive at the counter of Air India Express made the check-in process very simple and smooth, with boarding pass in hand in a mere two-minutes!

Monalisa Behera again at the gates made boarding the aircraft very smooth and quick.

Gestures like these from Soumya and Trazel, ensuring that everyone has a comfortable time, go a long way in enhancing the reputation and at the same time add goodwill to any business.