From Launch to Leadership: Jyoti Mayal makes productive strides in Sri Lanka

Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson of the Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council and former President of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), received a warm welcome at Classic Travel’s head office during her recent visit to Sri Lanka

Renowned as a prominent advocate for regional tourism development, her visit marked a significant step toward promoting inclusive travel initiatives. During her visit to Sri Lanka, Jyoti Mayal also met with the Honorable President of Sri Lanka, Anura Kumara Dissanayake, where she emphasized the importance of strengthening India-Sri Lanka relations and expanding tourism opportunities between the two nations.

At the inauguration, Jyoti Mayal, joined by Janitha Rukmal, Director of the Sri Lanka Council for the Blind, officially opened the Classic Travel Priority Service Centre — a dedicated facility aimed at enhancing travel experiences for senior citizens and travelers with special needs. The event was graced by key members of Classic Travel’s leadership, including CEO, Shiham Imamudeen, Director, Sabry Bahaudeen, and Head of Classic Destination Chalaka Gajabahu, who expressed their gratitude to Jyoti for her encouragement and continued support.

The newly opened Priority Service Centre is a testament to Jtoyi’s consistent pursuit of people-friendly and accessible travel experiences. Her initiation of this facility only goes to prove her relentless pursuit of inclusive growth in tourism, not only in India but throughout South Asia.

Jyoti Mayal, Chairperson of Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council

“This center is a forward-thinking move to building a travel landscape where no one gets left behind,” Jyoti Mayal stated. “Tourism must be for all — whether you’re old or young, able-bodied or disabled — and it’s great to see Sri Lanka take this considerate step. It’s heartening to see the sector recognize its role towards all types of travelers.”

Jyoti Mayal’s presence at the event added significant value, reflecting her longstanding advocacy for inclusive policy-making, skill development, and regional collaboration. Her interaction with stakeholders opened avenues for future cross-border partnerships in tourism and training. The inauguration of the new centre stands as a testament to her commitment to responsible, accessible, and innovation-driven travel — reinforcing the need for empathy, sustainable infrastructure, and continuous skill-building in the evolving global tourism landscape.