Saturday, November 8, 2025

In a powerful demonstration of solidarity and ambition, Skal International India marked a defining moment at the Skal Asia Congress 2025 in Colombo, Sri Lanka, by fielding its largest-ever delegation to an Asian area event. Indian Skålleagues from across the country came together, setting a new benchmark of participation and leadership on the regional Skal stage.

On June 26, 2025, Skal International India held its National Committee Meeting (NCM) at the iconic Shangri-La Hotel in Colombo, coinciding with this vibrant congress. The meeting drew Presidents, Secretaries, Board Members, and National Committee representatives from India, united in their vision to strengthen the Skal movement in India and beyond.

Skal

“This is more than a milestone—it is a movement in motion,” said Sanjeev Mehra, President of Skal International India. “With a record presence at Skal Asia Congress, India has not just shown up—we’ve shown the way forward. The National Committee Meeting in Colombo echoed our unity, discipline, and determination to lead Skal globally, with professionalism, purpose, and pride.”

NSN Mohan, Director – Region 10 (India) and Director – Finance, Skal International, added, “This congress reinforced India’s growing influence within the global Skal fraternity. Our dynamic presence in Colombo is a result of hard work, vision, and the coming together of like-minded professionals dedicated to transforming tourism through collaboration, ethics, and friendship.”

The NCM was marked by constructive dialogue, appreciation of club achievements, and celebration of initiatives championing responsible tourism, youth engagement, and sustainability. The latest edition of KOTIN Magazine—Skal International India’s official publication—was also widely applauded for its content, communication value, and branding excellence.

Several board members described the NCM as one of the most engaging and transparent national meetings in recent memory, with some expressing that they had never experienced such collaborative energy and open interaction with the national leadership team.

The evening cocktail-dinner receptions added warmth and camaraderie to the formal agenda, and members appreciated the smooth conduct, insightful presentations, and overall hospitality that made the event memorable.

Skal Delhi proudly holds the title of the world’s largest Skal club. It showcases India’s significant contribution to the growth of Skal Asia and earns admiration from the global Skal community. In 2026, Macau will host the next Skal Asia Congress.

Looking ahead, the focus now shifts to Skal India Congress 2025 in Mumbai this September, with preparations already underway to deliver a truly historic event. “Let’s build on this momentum,” Mehra emphasised. “We aim to launch our remaining clubs swiftly, ensure maximum participation in the upcoming India Congress, and communicate early to attract global participation. Together, we aspire to make India the number one Skal nation before the World Congress.”

“We also draw inspiration from the best practices we observed at the Skal Asia AGM,” noted Mohan. “It’s time to adopt a more structured and inclusive model for our own General Assembly, including active involvement from all national office bearers.”

Skal International India extends its deepest gratitude to Skal Asia for organising an outstanding Congress in Colombo and acknowledges the visionary leadership of the organising team, the Congress Chairperson Sharmili, for curating a seamless and elegant event; Skal Colombo President Ahintha Amarasinghe, for his steady support; Skal Asia President Keethi Jayaweera, for his inclusive and inspiring leadership; and to every national president, area head, club leader, and all Skålleagues across Asia, whose participation brought unmatched vibrance to the event.

Special thanks go to Skal International President Denise Scrafton, whose presence elevated the congress with a global perspective.

Skal International India also proudly lauds three leading Indian Skålleagues: Shekhar Divadkar, who was elected the new President, Manoj Mathew, the new vice president of West Asia, and Kuncheria Thomas, the new Secretary of the Executive Committee of Skal Asia for 2025-2027.

The Indian delegation also gratefully acknowledges the generosity of hospitality partners like Shangri-la Colombo, Taj Samudra, and Cinnamon Grand.

This congress served as a reminder that Skal is not just a network—it is a living movement built on friendship, ethical business, and shared dreams.

“Let us now unite as Skålleagues across Asia and the world,” Mehra said in closing. Let us bring forward new clubs, new countries, and new opportunities. Let us ensure that every Skal member and their families feel proud to be part of this incredible journey.”

As Skal International India nears the first anniversary of its current leadership on July 6, it rededicates itself to its mission — “Doing business among friends,” building bridges, and creating a more united, sustainable tourism landscape.

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