Skål International India marked a historic milestone with the inauguration of Skål International Kashmir, its 20th club in the country, at Taj Dal View, Srinagar. For the first time ever, an Indian Chief Minister presided over the launch of a Skål club, as Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated the chapter in the presence of tourism leaders, dignitaries, and hospitality stakeholders.
The installation ceremony adhered to official Skål protocols, including the oath-taking, pinning of office-bearers, certificate presentations, and recognition of contributors to the region’s tourism ecosystem. The launch of the Kashmir chapter follows the recent installation of Skål International Jammu & Kashmir, India’s 19th club.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah lauded the initiative and emphasized its value to the region’s economy, stating: “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 region’s global tourism potential, noting: “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 nationwide momentum, saying: “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.”
Vice President 1 of the newly launched chapter, Showket Ahmad Pakhtoon, committed to collective progress: “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 focus on strengthening sustainable tourism, enhancing global visibility, fostering professional exchanges, and contributing to socio-economic development across the Kashmir Valley.
The inauguration evening showcased the cultural vibrancy of Kashmir with musical performances, felicitations, and moments of camaraderie, reflecting a shared commitment to advancing the region’s tourism landscape.
With this landmark addition, Skål International India continues to expand its footprint across the country, championing its ethos of “Doing Business Among Friends” while elevating tourism leadership nationwide.
