Category: #TravelwithAllycaral 👒

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Goa Tourism to Showcase “Sunshine and More in Goa” at OTDYKH Leisure 2025 in Moscow

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Tourism is taking the global stage once again, as it prepares to participate in OTDYKH Leisure 2025—one of the largest international travel and tourism exhibitions. The event will take place from 10th to 12th September at the Timiryazev Exhibition Center in Moscow, Russia. This year, Goa Tourism will present the theme “Sunshine and More in Goa” at Pavilion B13, inviting global audiences to experience the richness and diversity of India’s most beloved coastal destination.

Speaking ahead of the event, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized Goa’s positioning as a holistic and globally attractive destination. “Goa has always been one of the most sought-after destinations for international travelers, and our presence at OTDYKH Leisure 2025 is another step towards strengthening Goa’s global footprint. Through the theme ‘Sunshine and More in Goa,’ we want to showcase the multifaceted experiences our state offers, from beaches to hinterlands, from wellness retreats to cultural richness. Our focus is on attracting quality tourism, building meaningful collaborations, and positioning Goa as a responsible, world-class destination.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, also noted the importance of the platform: “OTDYKH Leisure is a significant platform to connect with international travel trade stakeholders and potential visitors. At the Goa Pavilion, we will be highlighting not just the leisure aspect of Goa but also our forward-looking initiatives in areas like wellness, heritage, adventure, and community tourism. This participation provides an opportunity to emphasize Goa’s position as a destination that celebrates culture, sustainability, and authentic travel experiences.”

Goa’s presentation at the exhibition will go far beyond sun and sand. Visitors to the pavilion will get to explore the state’s pristine beaches, vibrant hinterlands, luxury resorts, spiritual and wellness getaways, immersive heritage trails, adrenaline-filled adventure experiences, and community-led tourism initiatives. It’s all part of Goa’s evolving narrative as a year-round destination for leisure, business, and mindful travel.

With the global spotlight increasingly shifting toward regenerative tourism and eco-conscious travel, Goa Tourism’s showcase will also highlight the state’s ongoing work in preserving natural ecosystems, empowering local communities, and encouraging responsible travel practices. By participating in OTDYKH Leisure 2025, Goa aims not only to promote its attractions but also to strengthen international partnerships, encourage investments, and open doors to a new era of tourism that values people, planet, and authentic experiences.

Goa Tourism warmly invites travel professionals, investors, stakeholders, and global travelers to visit the Goa Pavilion – B13 and experience the true spirit of “Sunshine and More in Goa.”

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Goa Tourism Hands Over 20 Refurbished Public Toilets to Sulabh for Better Sanitation at Tourist Spots

Tanisha Cardozo

On 4th September 2025, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, took a major step toward enhancing public sanitation by handing over the operation and maintenance of 20 refurbished public toilets across key tourist destinations to Sulabh International Social Service Organization (SISSO). This initiative is closely aligned with the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and Goa’s long-term vision for sustainable tourism and improved public infrastructure.

Previously developed under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), the 21 public convenience blocks spanned prominent tourist zones including Ashwem, Morjim, Anjuna, Candolim, Calangute, Baga, Panaji KTC Bus Stand, Siridao, Margao KTC, Colva, Benaulim, Sernabatim, Fatrade, Varca, Cavelossim, Mobor, and Palolem. However, these facilities had been under the operational charge of M/s. Akatva Speciality Services Pvt. Ltd. since 2021.

Despite initial expectations, the performance of the operator fell significantly short. Issues ranged from non-maintenance and delays in constructing new toilets to a complete lack of surveillance and non-payment of license fees. This led to the termination of the agreement by GTDC in June 2024, following legal proceedings where the operator also failed to fulfill interim arbitration conditions. GTDC subsequently repossessed all 20 toilet blocks, secured the sites through official panchanamas, and arranged for temporary security to prevent further degradation.

In response to growing tourist demand and the importance of clean sanitation facilities in a coastal destination like Goa, the government took swift action to refurbish the facilities and hand over their upkeep to Sulabh International—a nationally recognized organization known for its expertise in public sanitation. The toilets located at high-traffic areas such as Baga, Colva, Morjim, Siridao, Sernabatim, Varca, Mobor, Cavelossim, and Fatorda are now operational under a “pay and use” model managed by Sulabh. In one unique instance, the Candolim panchayat has been entrusted with refurbishing and managing the toilet block in their jurisdiction.

The handover is initially set for a period of three months and may be extended for another three months based on performance and outcomes. This initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment not only to maintaining hygienic public spaces but also to creating a positive impression for both domestic and international tourists visiting the state.

By ensuring that these essential services are managed by capable hands, Goa is reinforcing its position as a clean, safe, and sustainable tourism destination, while setting a model for effective public-private partnerships in infrastructure management.

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MHA Notifies Immigration and Foreigners (Exemption) Order, 2025

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New Delhi | 3rd September 2025

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has officially notified the Immigration and Foreigners (Exemption) Order, 2025, introducing significant provisions impacting regional mobility and humanitarian relief.

📌 Key Provisions of the Order

  • Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan: Continuing the tradition of open borders and close bilateral ties, citizens of Nepal and Bhutan can still enter India without the need for a passport or visa.
  • Persecuted Minorities from Neighbouring Countries: Religious and ethnic minorities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan who entered India before 31 December 2024 are exempt from certain immigration rules.

🌍 Context & Significance
India has historically shared special border arrangements with Nepal and Bhutan, allowing free movement of people as part of longstanding cultural and economic ties.

The exemption for persecuted minorities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan aligns with India’s humanitarian stance towards displaced communities fleeing religious persecution. This provision also complements the framework of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), though it functions as a separate administrative relief.

🔎 Implications

  • Reinforces India’s regional diplomacy with close neighbours.
  • Extends legal relief and recognition to minorities who sought refuge in India before the cut-off date.
  • Provides clarity for immigration and enforcement agencies in handling cross-border cases.

📖 Conclusion
The Immigration and Foreigners (Exemption) Order, 2025 reaffirms India’s commitment to both regional integration and humanitarian values. By balancing open-border arrangements with neighbouring states and offering exemptions to persecuted groups, the policy reflects both strategic and compassionate governance.

👉 Stay updated with allycaral.com for detailed coverage of government policies, regional affairs, and immigration developments.

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Air India Launches Limited-Period Sale on Business Class & Premium Economy Travel

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Travel & Aviation | 2 September 2025 | Allycaral News Desk

Air India, India’s leading global airline, has announced a limited-time promotional sale on Business Class and Premium Economy travel across select short-haul international routes.

The sale, available between 2–7 September 2025, offers travellers a chance to fly in comfort at highly competitive fares, with travel valid until 31 March 2026.

  • Premium Economy round-trip fares start at ₹13,300
  • Business Class round-trip fares start at ₹34,400
  • Zero convenience fees on bookings via the Air India website & mobile app
  • Additional savings with promo codes:
    • FLYAI (up to ₹2,400 off per passenger)
    • VISAFLY (up to ₹2,500 off per passenger for Visa card payments)
  • Delhi – Kathmandu: ₹13,300 (Premium Economy), ₹34,400 (Business Class)
  • Delhi – Kuala Lumpur: ₹23,700 (PE), ₹64,700 (BC)
  • Mumbai – Singapore: ₹24,800 (PE), ₹91,600 (BC)
  • Delhi – Hong Kong: ₹30,700 (PE), ₹1,07,100 (BC)
  • Abu Dhabi – Mumbai: AED 900 (PE), AED 2,500 (BC)
  • Dubai – Delhi: AED 1,100 (PE), AED 3,500 (BC)
  • Singapore – Delhi: SGD 428 (PE), SGD 1,292 (BC)
  • Bangkok – Delhi: THB 9,215 (PE), THB 27,801 (BC)

🛫 Upgraded Flying Experience
Air India has introduced new or refurbished cabin interiors across 16 short-haul international routes, including Bangkok, Phuket, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai, and Kathmandu. The routes are now served with aircraft featuring a three-class configuration, enhancing passenger experience.

⏳ Booking Window

  • Offer valid: 2–7 September 2025
  • Final day (7 Sept): Exclusive to Air India’s website & app
  • Channels: Air India website, mobile app, airport ticketing offices, customer care, travel agents

Seats under this offer are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis


With attractive fares, upgraded cabins, and exclusive online offers, Air India’s sale provides an excellent opportunity for travellers to enjoy premium flying at reduced prices.

📖 For full details and fare listings, visit allycaral.com

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India Sees First Decline in Travel to the US in June 2025 After Two Decades

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National | September 1, 2025

India has witnessed its first decline in travel to the United States in June 2025, breaking a growth streak that lasted for over two decades. The dip highlights the challenges faced by travelers amid global economic uncertainties and increasing logistical hurdles.

According to industry reports, multiple factors contributed to this rare downturn:

  • Rising Airfare: Escalating flight costs have discouraged leisure and business travelers alike.
  • Visa Delays: Prolonged US visa processing times have disrupted travel plans for students, professionals, and tourists.
  • Global Economic Headwinds: Uncertainty in global markets, coupled with a weaker rupee, has dampened international travel appetite.

For the past 20 years, the US has remained one of the top international destinations for Indian travelers—driven by tourism, education, and business opportunities. However, this decline signals a shift in preferences, with destinations in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Europe gaining traction due to affordability and accessibility.

Industry experts suggest that this could be a temporary dip, but warn that unless airfare stabilizes and visa bottlenecks are addressed, the US may see a prolonged slowdown in arrivals from India.

Travel stakeholders are calling for strategic interventions, including improved visa facilitation and airline collaborations, to restore growth. With India’s outbound travel market expanding rapidly, how the US responds to these challenges will determine whether this decline is a blip—or the start of a new trend.

📖 Stay updated on lifestyle, travel, and global trends at allycaral.com