Skål International India celebrated a historic milestone with the installation of Skål International Kashmir, its 20th club in the country, at the Taj Dal View, Srinagar. Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, presided as the chief guest of the inauguration that brought together distinguished Skålleagues, tourism leaders, hospitality stakeholders, and dignitaries – reaffirming the pivotal role of tourism in the Kashmir Valley.
The ceremony followed official Skål products, including the oath and the pinning of office-bearers and founder members, certificate presentations, recognition of tourism contributors, and messages of solidarity from Skål leaders. The upcoming new club builds upon Skål International India’s fast-expanding footprint – following the installation of Skål International Jammu & Kashmir earlier this year as India’s 19th club.
Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister, Jammu & Kashmir, expressed confidence in the strengthened tourism movement, saying, “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.”
NSN Mohan, Vice President, Skål International 2026 & President Elect 2027, highlighted the valley’s global potential: “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.”
Sanjeev Mehra, President, Skål International India, emphasised the organisation’s national growth: “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, pledged collaborative efforts: “Our mission is to unite every tourism professional here to showcase Kashmir’s timeless heritage and unmatched experiences to the world.”
The office bearers for Skål International Kashmir are:
Zahoor Ahmad Qari – President
Showket Ahmad Pakhtoon – Vice President 1
Shamim A Shah – Vice President 2
Ather Yameen Narwari – Secretary
Mir Anwar – Treasurer
Tanveer Ahmad Khan – Membership Development Officer
Irshad Hazari – Director, PR & Communications and CSR
Rahil Patloo – Auditor
Skål International India reaffirmed its commitment to advancing sustainable and responsible tourism development, strengthening alliances with valley-wide tourism stakeholders, enhancing global visibility and professional exchange, and driving socio-economic progress through tourism excellence.
With this inauguration, Skål India continues to champion “doing business among friends” while expanding tourism leadership across the nation.