Skål International India marked a historic milestone as it debuted Skål International Kashmir, its 20th club in the country, at Taj Dal View, Srinagar. For the first time in Skål India’s history, an Indian Chief Minister inaugurated a club, with Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, presiding as the chief guest. The ceremony brought together distinguished Skålleagues, tourism leaders, hospitality stakeholders, and dignitaries in a powerful reaffirmation of tourism’s pivotal role in the Kashmir Valley, widely cherished as the paradise on earth.

The evening strictly followed official Skål protocols, which included the oath ceremony, pinning of office-bearers and founder members, certificate presentations, recognition of tourism contributors, and messages of solidarity from Skål leaders worldwide. The launch of this new club builds upon Skål International India’s expanding national footprint, coming shortly after the installation of Skål International Jammu & Kashmir earlier this year as India’s 19th club.

Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, expressed his optimism for the region’s tourism resurgence. He said, “Kashmir welcomes Skål International with open arms. Together, we will invite the world to rediscover our peace, beauty, and hospitality. Any B2B networking is good for the Kashmir economy. Tourism is our key business and Skål International India is doing excellent work. We are happy to see Kashmir in the spotlight for Skål International India.”

Mohan NSN, Vice President, Skål International 2026 & President-Elect 2027, highlighted the valley’s global resonance. “Kashmir is a destination that touches hearts — Skål International stands committed to empowering its tourism community with global opportunities. India is now one of the most dynamic forces in the Skål World community — our progress is truly outstanding.”

Sanjeev Mehra, President, Skål International India, underscored the organisation’s growing national presence. “Our 20th club in India reflects our belief in Kashmir’s power to inspire global travel and drive sustainable tourism growth. Our goal is to establish at least one club in every State and Union Territory — and even multiple clubs where the industry size demands it.”

Showket Ahmad Pakhtoon, Vice President 1, Skål International Kashmir, emphasized the collective mission ahead. “Our mission is to unite every tourism professional here to showcase Kashmir’s timeless heritage and unmatched experiences to the world.”

Office Bearers — Skål International Kashmir

President: Sk Zahoor Ahmad Qari

Vice President 1: Sk Showket Ahmad Pakhtoon

Vice President 2: Sk Shamim A Shah

Secretary: Sk Ather Yameen Narwari

Treasurer: Sk Mir Anwar

Membership Development Officer: Sk Tanveer Ahmad Khan

Director – PR, Communications & CSR: Sk Irshad Hazari

Auditor: Sk Rahil Patloo

Skål International India reiterated its long-standing commitment to advancing sustainable and responsible tourism development, strengthening alliances across the valley’s tourism sector, enhancing global visibility and professional exchange, and supporting socio-economic progress through tourism excellence.

The installation ceremony also showcased the vibrance of Kashmiri culture, featuring musical performances, felicitations, and moments of heartfelt camaraderie that reflected unity, pride, and a shared vision for the future of tourism in the region.

With this landmark inauguration, Skål India continues to champion “Doing Business Among Friends” as it expands tourism leadership across the nation.

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