Renowned tourism industry leader Dr. Subhash Goyal has been nominated as Dean Industry of the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism during the prestigious “ELEVATE 2026” conclave organised by International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry in association with AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism.
The event brought together distinguished tourism professionals, hospitality experts, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to discuss the growing prospects and emerging opportunities in the tourism and hospitality sectors in India and across the globe.
The conclave served as a major platform for dialogue on the future of tourism, innovation in hospitality, international collaboration, and sustainable growth in the travel industry.
Recognition for Decades of Contribution to Tourism Industry
Dr. Goyal, widely regarded as one of the giants of India’s tourism industry, has held several influential leadership roles in national and international tourism organisations over the years.
Currently, he serves as a Member of the National Tourism Advisory Council under the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. He is also the Honorary Secretary of the Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism and Hospitality (FAITH), one of the apex tourism industry bodies in the country.
In addition, Dr. Goyal chairs the Tourism and Services Sector of the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), which functions under the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India.
His extensive leadership portfolio also includes serving as Chairman of the ASSOCHAM Tourism and Hospitality Council and Chairman of the Expert Committee on Civil Aviation and Tourism of the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI).
Dr. Goyal is also the Honorary Secretary General of the Indo Latin American Chamber of Commerce and the Immediate Past President of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO). He currently serves as President of the Confederation of Tourism Professionals.
Tourism as a Tool for Economic Development
Apart from his contributions to the tourism industry, Dr. Goyal is also recognised as an author and policy advocate. His book, Poverty Eradication & Economic Development Through Tourism, highlights the transformative role tourism can play in generating employment, reducing poverty, and driving inclusive economic growth.
Speakers at the event praised Dr. Goyal’s decades-long contribution toward strengthening tourism infrastructure, promoting India globally as a travel destination, and encouraging collaboration between industry stakeholders and policymakers.
The appointment of Dr. Goyal as Dean Industry at AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism is expected to further strengthen the institution’s industry-academia collaboration and provide students with greater exposure to real-world tourism and hospitality practices.
ELEVATE 2026 Focuses on Future of Tourism
The ELEVATE 2026 conclave featured discussions on emerging tourism trends, sustainable tourism development, hospitality management, aviation connectivity, global tourism partnerships, and opportunities for youth in the tourism industry.
Industry experts shared insights on how evolving travel patterns, digital transformation, and international cooperation are reshaping the future of tourism both in India and internationally.
Participants described the conclave as highly informative and inspiring, particularly for young professionals and students aspiring to build careers in tourism and hospitality.
Organisers stated that the event aimed to create meaningful dialogue between tourism veterans, entrepreneurs, educators, and policymakers while encouraging innovation and leadership within the sector.
Strengthening Industry-Academia Collaboration
Officials from the AAFT School of Hospitality and Tourism said the nomination of Dr. Goyal reflects the institution’s commitment to connecting students with experienced industry leaders who can guide future tourism professionals.
The organisers also emphasized the importance of practical industry knowledge, global exposure, and leadership development in preparing students for the rapidly evolving tourism and hospitality landscape.
As tourism continues to emerge as one of the world’s fastest-growing industries, experts at the conclave highlighted the need for skilled professionals, policy reforms, sustainable practices, and stronger international cooperation to unlock the sector’s full potential.
The event concluded with optimism about the future of global tourism and a collective commitment to promoting innovation, sustainability, and professional excellence in the hospitality and travel industry.
