Skål International officially launched the Jammu and Kashmir club on May 31, 2025, marking an important step in the organization’s growth across India. The installation and inaugural ceremony took place at The Countryside Resort & Banquets in Srinagar, attended by Skål International India board members and leading figures from the Jammu and Kashmir tourism community.
The ceremony was graced by Farooq Ahmad Shah, Member Legislative Assembly, Jammu and Kashmir, as the Chief Guest. In his address, Shah said, “Tourism is the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, and it is heartening to see the Skål International Jammu and Kashmir club taking shape. I am confident that this club will play a vital role in promoting the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, and I wish the members all the best in their endeavours.”
This landmark event is a testament to the resilience and growth of the Jammu and Kashmir tourism industry and Skål India’s commitment to establishing a strong presence in every state and union territory of the country. The installation of the Jammu & Kashmir club brings the total number of Skål clubs in India to 19, further solidifying the organization’s position as the world’s largest network of tourism industry professionals in leadership roles.
“We are thrilled to embark on this new journey as part of the Skål International family. Our aim is to foster a spirit of collaboration and innovation within the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir. We are committed to working tirelessly to promote the region’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes to the world,” said Abdul Wahid Malik, President, Skål International Jammu and Kashmir.
Sanjeev Mehra, President, Skål International India, added, “The installation of the Jammu and Kashmir club is a game-changer for the region’s tourism industry. It reflects our commitment to expanding Skål’s presence across India and empowering local tourism professionals. We are confident that this club will play a vital role in promoting tourism and hospitality in the region, and we look forward to working closely with them to achieve our goals.”
NSN Mohan, Deputy Vice President and Director, Region 10, Skål International, congratulated the Jammu & Kashmir club on their installation. “This is a momentous occasion not just for Jammu and Kashmir but for the entire Indian tourism industry. The resilience and determination shown by the tourism industry in Jammu and Kashmir are truly inspiring, and we are proud to be a part of it. We look forward to working with the club to promote tourism and hospitality in the region and to achieve our goals.”
The event was marked by valuable discussions, forward-thinking suggestions, and a shared vision for collaborative growth in the tourism and hospitality sector. Congratulations poured in from not only Indian clubs but also from Skål clubs around the world, highlighting the significance of this moment for the global tourism community.
The Office Bearers of the newly inaugurated club are:
President – Sk Abdul Wahid Malik
Vice President 1 – Sk Bashir Karnai
Secretary – Sk Adil Hussain
Treasurer – Sk Hilal Ahmed Dar
Director, Young Skål – Sk Amir Lateef
Director, PR & Comm – Sk Sameer Ahmad Baktoo
Auditor – Sk Mohmed Akram Siah
As Skål International India continues its journey to foster professional camaraderie, build bridges across borders, and create opportunities that benefit the industry and its stakeholders, the installation of the Jammu & Kashmir club is a major step forward.
