The Hotel And Restaurant Association (Western India) – HRAWI in conjunction with the Poona Hoteliers Association (PHA) successfully convened an impactful conclave titled ‘Empowering Hospitality’ on Thursday, March 21, 2024. The event served as a platform to honour and acknowledge esteemed professionals in the hospitality industry for their remarkable contributions. Held at the Raddison Blu Hotel in Pune, the conclave gathered industry leaders to delve into crucial aspects of hospitality excellence. Noteworthy dignitaries including Devendra Potphode, Chief Fire Officer, Pune and Shama S. Pawar, Deputy Director, Pune through experiences from their respective domains shared valuable insights.

Notable figures present included Suresh Talera, President of Honour, PHA, who received the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for his exemplary contribution to the hospitality sector. Additionally, Mr Amit Sharma, General Manager of Amanora The Fern, Pune and President of PHA, was recognized for his significant contribution to the hospitality sector in Pune.

“It’s an honour to be part of an event that recognizes the exemplary contributions of individuals in the hospitality sector. The dedication and commitment showcased by each awardee, including Mr Suresh Talera and Mr Amit Sharma, are commendable and serve as inspiration for all of us in the industry. Events like this not only celebrate achievements but also promote a sense of camaraderie and collaboration within our community. I look forward to continuing our efforts to elevate the standards and excellence of the hospitality sector in Pune and beyond,” says Pradeep Shetty, President, HRAWI.

Among the distinguished professionals recognized for their exceptional contributions to the hospitality sector, HRAWI also honoured Arun Nayar, Past President, PHA; Sanjay Singh, Past President, PHA; Sharan Shetty, Immediate past President PHA & Owner, Shree Panchratna Hotel; Vinay Nair, GM, Double Tree By Hilton, Pune; Sumit Sharma, GM, Central Park, Pune; Sandeep Singh, GM, Hyatt Pune; Pankaj Saxena, GM, Radisson Blu Hotel Pune; Rahul Panwar, GM, Novotel Pune; Mr Vaibhav Lamba, Executive Director, Ramada Plaza, Pune; Santanu Sarkar, GM, Crowne Plaza Pune City Centre; Abhishek Sahai, GM, Conrad Pune; Mr Melvyn Saldanha, GM, Taj Blue Diamond, Pune and Mr Dev Kumar, AVP, Parc Estique Hotel.

“As we observe remarkable growth and evolution in the tourism sector, it becomes essential to acknowledge the stalwarts of the hospitality industry. With forecasts highlighting the sector’s substantial GDP contributions and employment opportunities by 2028 and the ambitious milestones set for 2047, it is crucial to ensure that the industry is led by capable individuals. Our forthcoming convention in Goa seeks to propel growth while promoting best practices in hospitality nationwide, in line with India’s aspirations of welcoming 100 million tourists by 2047 and achieving a USD 3 trillion hospitality tourism economy,” concludes Shetty.