Our Events and Activities
Explore the key events and initiatives organized by Varanasi Tourism Guild during this session. From meetings and tourism activities to major celebrations, each event reflects our continuous efforts towards growth and collaboration in the tourism sector.
General Election 2025
The General Election of Varanasi Tourism Guild 2025 was conducted successfully.
- Election Process: 1st May 2025 to 6th May 2025
- Result Declaration: 7th May 2025
Election Officers
- Dr. Ajay Singh – Chief Election Officer
- Mr. Majid Khan – Election Officer
- Dr. Vivek Tiwari – Election Officer
Elected Office Bearers
- Mr. Subhash Kapoor – President
- Mr. Saurabh Pandey – Secretary
- Mr. Brajesh Kumar Singh – Vice President
- Mr. Ranjeet Kumar Srivastava – Treasurer
- Mr. Jainendra Rai – Joint Secretary
Formation of Committees
A meeting was called by the president on 10th May 2025 to finalize the committees.
Advisory Board
- Mr. Santosh Kumar Singh
- Mr. Naunihal Singh
- Mr. Majid Khan
Executive Committee
- Mr. Pradeep Kumar Chaurasiya
- Mr. Pramod Kumar Singh
- Dr. Vivek Tiwari
- Mr. Dinesh Mishra
- Mr. Gajanan Joshi
- Mr. Gajendra Choubey
Transport Committee
- Mr. Rajeev Ranjan Srivastava
- Mr. Alok Kumar Sahai
- Mr. Rajeev Singh
Hotels Committee
- Mr. Sushil Tiwari
Airlines Committee
- Mr. Abhay Kumar Sahai
- Mr. Pradeep Rai
Swearing-in Ceremony 2025
All the members who were elected in the General Election 2025 formally assumed their respective positions after the Swearing-in Ceremony conducted on 25th May 2025.
- Date: 25th May 2025
- Venue: Hotel Akosha – Four Leaf, Varanasi
Chief Guest
- Honourable Mayor Mr. Ashok Tiwari
Special Guest
- Mr. Puneet Gupta – Director of Varanasi Airport
- Mr. R. K. Rawat – Joint Director of U. P. Tourism
- Mr. Pawas Prasoon – Assistant Director of India Tourism Varanasi
- Mr. Prateek Heera – IATO, Chapter Chairman of UP & Uttarakhand
- Mr. Pradeep Rai – TAAI, Chapter Chairman of Uttar Pradesh
- Mr. Sushil Singh – ADTOI, Chapter Chairman of Uttar Pradesh
- Mr. S. K. Singh – President of Tourism Association of Bihar
- Mr. Ajay Singh – Vice President of Tourism Association of Bihar
The Swearing-in Ceremony concluded with a dinner at Hotel Akosha, one of the finest hotels in Varanasi and a part of Four Leaf Hotels.
Key Meetings & Decisions
Executive Committee Meetings
- 10 May 2025 – a Meeting held under the leadership of President Mr. Shubhash Kapoor to finalize the structure of committees and office responsibilities after the election.
- 21 May 2025 – The Executive Committee Meeting was held at Hotel India, Varanasi, where the main agenda was discussion regarding the Swearing In Ceremony.
- 10 June 2025 – The meeting was held at Hotel Hindusthan International, Varanasi, with important discussions on World Yoga Day celebration, association matters, and VTG bank account issues.
- 05 July 2025 – The Executive Committee Meeting took place at Hotel Rio Banaras, Varanasi, focusing on the upcoming FAM Trip from 10 to 14 August 2025, accounts presentation, recent achievements, and introduction of new members.
- 30 August 2025 – An executive review meeting was held at Hotel Kashi Pride, Varanasi, regarding future activities, tourism season planning, and internal coordination.
- 13 November 2025 – The meeting was conducted at Hotel India Banaras, Varanasi, where discussions were held on organizing the VTG Cricket League and celebration of 150 Years of the National Song, Vande Mataram.
- 05 January 2026 – A key meeting was held at Avantika by Taj, Varanasi, where major decisions were taken regarding website development, VTG directory, and formation of a six-member committee.
- 01 March 2026 – The Executive Committee Meeting was organized at Blue Sapphire, Four Leaf Hotel, Varanasi, for review of previous events, planning of Holi Milan Samaroh, and approval of three new members.
General Body Meetings
- 29 July 2025 – The General Body Meeting was held at Hotel Regency, Varanasi, where the main agenda was discussion on the upcoming FAM Trip from 10 to 14 August 2025.
- 10 September 2025 – The General Body Meeting took place at Tree of Life Resort (A Unit of Taj Hotels), Varanasi, where the President addressed members, the Secretary presented the quarterly report, the Treasurer presented accounts, and transport-related issues were discussed.
- 26 April 2026 – The 3rd General Body Meeting of Varanasi Tourism Guild was held on 26 April 2026 at Hotel Square-S, Varanasi, a rapidly growing hospitality destination in the city. The meeting was attended by office bearers, senior members, and guild members. A major highlight was the official launch of the VTG website by senior members and office bearers. Secretary Mr. Saurabh Pandey announced the beginning of the official VTG Directory, while Treasurer Mr. Ranjeet Srivastava presented the budget and expenditure details before the members.
Important Administrative Meetings
- 27 August 2025 – VTG attended an important meeting in Varanasi, called by the Divisional Commissioner, regarding upcoming festivals, especially Dev Deepawali.
- UNESCO Delegation Meeting – A special meeting was held at Commissioner’s Auditorium, Varanasi, in association with UP Tourism and Varanasi Tourism Guild under the chairmanship of the Divisional Commissioner.
Key Decisions Taken During the Session
- Formation of Advisory Board and multiple committees
- Strengthening official documentation and accounts system
- Approval of new memberships
- Launch planning of official VTG website and member directory
- Promotion of tourism through FAM Trips, seminars, and public events
- Better coordination with hotels, transport sector, and government tourism bodies
Discussion on New Tourist Vehicle Tax Rule
On 10 February 2026, Varanasi Tourism Guild held a meeting at Hotel Vagmi, Varanasi, to discuss the new government rule requiring a one time 15-year tax payment for tourist permit vehicles up to 7-seater capacity. Members discussed the burden of this provision on transport operators and shared concerns regarding its impact on the tourism industry.
Silver Jubilee Celebration
Varanasi Tourism Guild proudly celebrated its Silver Jubilee Year on 29 June 2025 at Hotel Hindusthan International, Varanasi. The special occasion marked an important milestone in the journey of the guild and reflected years of dedication toward the growth of tourism and hospitality in Varanasi.
Members, senior industry professionals and tourism stakeholders gathered to celebrate the legacy and achievements of the organization. The event highlighted the guild’s contributions in strengthening unity among travel, hotel, transport and tourism businesses over the years.
The celebration was a memorable moment of pride, recognition, and commitment toward building an even stronger future for the tourism industry of Varanasi.
Major Events & Activities
World Environment Day (05 June 2025)
Varanasi Tourism Guild successfully organized a meaningful environmental awareness program on the occasion of World Environment Day. Under the inspiring theme “One Tree in the Name of Mother,” members and participants took part in a tree plantation drive. The initiative was conducted with the guidance and support of India Tourism, Varanasi.
Familiarization Trip (07 June 2025)
- Chief Guest – The Divisional Commissioner of Varanasi, Mr. S. Rajalingam
A major tourism promotion event was organized in association with Uttar Pradesh Tourism and Varanasi Tourism Guild at Hotel Pinnacle, Sarnath. Around 50 foreign tour operators from Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Cambodia participated in the program. The objective of this initiative was to promote the Buddhist tourism circuit of India, especially Varanasi and nearby destinations, among international travel professionals.
Nepal FAM Trip (12 to 14 June 2025)
Varanasi Tourism Guild participated in an international familiarization trip organized in association with the Madhesh Tourism Board, Nepal. The trip covered important destinations including Janakpur and Birgunj. This initiative helped strengthen tourism ties between India and Nepal and opened new opportunities for cross-border travel promotion.
MP Tourism Roadshow (27 June 2025)
A special tourism roadshow was held at Lemon Tree by Hilton, Varanasi, in association with Varanasi Tourism Guild. The event focused on promoting tourism opportunities in Madhya Pradesh and building stronger partnerships with the travel trade of Varanasi. The Honourable Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Rajendra Shukla attended the program as Chief Guest, making the event highly significant for the tourism fraternity.
Key Points:
- B to B meetings with the Travel Agents/Tour Operators of Madhya Pradesh.
- One to One meeting of VTG Office Bearers with the Chief Secretary of MP Tourism.
Celebrations & Special Programs
World Yoga Day (21 June 2025)
Varanasi Tourism Guild celebrated World Yoga Day at Hotel Clarks, Varanasi. Members gathered in the morning session and actively participated in yoga activities promoting health, discipline and positive living. The program reflected the importance of physical and mental wellness within the tourism community and encouraged members to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Health Check-up Camp (21 June 2025)
Varanasi Tourism Guild celebrated World Yoga Day at Hotel Clarks, Varanasi. Members gathered in the morning session and actively participated in yoga activities promoting health, discipline and positive living. The program reflected the importance of physical and mental wellness within the tourism community and encouraged members to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Independence Day Celebration (2025)
Independence Day Celebration was proudly organized in association with India Tourism, Varanasi, with active participation from members of the guild.
World Tourism Day (20 to 27 Sept 2025)
Varanasi Tourism Guild organized a grand week-long celebration of World Tourism Day from 20 September to 27 September 2025 through multiple events and public activities aimed at promoting tourism awareness and cultural pride.
Heritage Walks:
Two special Heritage Walks were organized during the celebration, giving participants an opportunity to explore the historical and cultural richness of Varanasi. These walks highlighted the heritage value of the city and promoted responsible tourism.
Seminars & Educational Programs:
Special seminars were conducted at prestigious institutions including Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and DAV Degree College during the World Tourism Day celebrations. A distinguished seminar was also addressed by Dr. Amitabh Bhattacharyya, where valuable insights were shared on tourism development, career opportunities, heritage awareness, and the importance of hospitality education.
Quiz Competition:
A quiz competition was organized in association with Sunbeam Varuna, where students and participants actively took part. The event encouraged tourism awareness among youth and created enthusiasm for learning about culture, heritage and travel.
Main Celebration Event:
The main World Tourism Day celebration began from Hotel Taj Ganges and concluded at Varuna Ghat on 27 September 2025. This grand closing event symbolized the connection between hospitality, heritage, and the spiritual identity of Varanasi. It became one of the most memorable highlights of the entire celebration.
- Chief Guest – Dr. Pawas Prasoon, Assistant Director of India Tourism
- Guest of Honour – Mr. Upendra Kumar Gupta, Managing Director of Clarks Group
- Special Guest – Mr. Vishal Singh, General Manager of Hotel Taj Ganges, Varanasi
Industry Participation & Recognition
Participation in IATO Convention, Puri
Varanasi Tourism Guild proudly participated in the IATO Convention at Puri, Odisha, one of the leading gatherings of the tourism industry. The participation reflected VTG’s active presence at the national level and its strong connection with tourism stakeholders across the country.
During the convention, Mr. Ravi Gosai was felicitated by senior members of VTG Mr. Santosh Singh and Mr. Anil Tripathi with a memento and Ang Vastram as a mark of respect and goodwill.
Commissioner’s Meeting (27 August 2025)
Varanasi Tourism Guild attended an important meeting at Commissioner Auditorium convened by the Divisional Commissioner of Varanasi, Mr. S. Rajalingam, on 27 August 2025. The main focus of the meeting was planning and coordination for upcoming major festivals, especially Dev Deepawali, one of the most significant cultural events of Varanasi.
VTG’s participation in such administrative discussions demonstrated the organization’s responsible role in city-level tourism planning and event management.
UNESCO Delegation Meeting
Varanasi Tourism Guild also participated in a significant meeting with the UNESCO Delegation, organized in association with UP Tourism at the Commissioner’s Auditorium, Varanasi. The meeting was chaired by the Divisional Commissioner of Varanasi, Mr. S. Rajalingam.
Kashi Ke Mitra Seminar (4 Sept 2025)
A special workshop titled Kashi Ke Mitra Seminar was held on 04 September 2025 at the Commissioner’s Auditorium, Varanasi. The program was organized by India Tourism, in association with UP Tourism and Varanasi Tourism Guild & Under the Supervision of the Divisional Commissioner of Varanasi, Mr. S. Rajalingam.
The seminar focused on tourism promotion, visitor experience, awareness and strengthening the image of Varanasi as a world class destination.
Special Initiatives
Distribution of Official VTG Badges
Varanasi Tourism Guild introduced and distributed its official VTG badges to esteemed members as a symbol of identity, unity and professional belonging. This initiative helped strengthen the organization’s official presence and created a sense of pride among members representing the guild in different tourism activities and events.
Tribute to Babu Jagat Singh (12 Oct 2025)
On 12 October 2025, Varanasi Tourism Guild proudly participated in a special commemorative program organized in memory of renowned freedom fighter Babu Jagat Singh at Babu Jagat Singh Kothi, Jagatganj, Varanasi.
The program was held under the leadership of Mr. Pradeep Narayan Singh, where the remarkable contribution of Babu Jagat Singh ji in India’s freedom struggle was remembered with great respect and honor. Members of Varanasi Tourism Guild joined the occasion to pay tribute and acknowledge his sacrifice, patriotism and inspiring legacy.
VTG Cricket League (22–23 December 2025)
VTG organized a two-day Cricket League on 22nd and 23rd December 2025 as a unique initiative to connect sports with tourism and member engagement. It was the first cricket league in the history of Varanasi Tourism Guild, bringing members and stakeholders together in a spirit of teamwork, friendship and healthy competition. The event was widely appreciated as an innovative step for unity within the tourism fraternity.
National Tourism Day (25 Jan 2026)
Varanasi Tourism Guild proudly celebrated National Tourism Day on 25 January 2026 at Hotel Square Inn, Varanasi, honouring distinguished personalities who have contributed significantly to the city’s tourism and hospitality industry. A special highlight of the event was the presentation of the prestigious Kashi Paryatan Ratna Award (काशी पर्यटन रत्न) to four respected personalities for their remarkable service and dedication to the tourism sector.
| Awardees Honoured |
|---|
| Mr. Upendra Kumar Gupta |
| Mr. Ronald Benjamin Nadar |
| Mr. Rajeev Ranjan Srivastava |
| Mr. Naunihal Singh |
Holi Milan Samaroh (8 March 2026)
VTG organized a joyful Holi Milan Samaroh Cum Family Meet on 08 March 2026 at Kashi Anandam Resort, Varanasi. Members and their families gathered together to celebrate the festival of colours in a warm and friendly atmosphere. It was the first family function organized by VTG in recent years, creating a memorable occasion of bonding, togetherness, and cultural celebration within the guild family.
AI Workshop at BHU (30 March 2026)
A forward-looking Workshop on Artificial Intelligence was organized in association with IATO at Banaras Hindu University (BHU) on 30 March 2026. The session introduced members and participants to emerging technologies, innovation and the future role of AI in tourism, hospitality and business operations.
Buddhist Conclave (31 Mar – 1 Apr 2026)
Members of Varanasi Tourism Guild actively participated in the Buddhist Conclave held at Kushinagar from 31 March to 01 April 2026. The conclave focused on promoting Buddhist tourism circuits and strengthening the connection of Varanasi with important spiritual destinations.
Administrative & Documentation Work
- A new rule has been introduced for the next 5 years, under which all members of Varanasi Tourism Guild will be required to renew their membership annually by paying the applicable renewal charges.
- Official PAN Card of VTG obtained and maintained for organizational records.
- Proper verification and documentation of all members carried out systematically.
- Professional Tally accounting system implemented for transparent financial management.
- Audited Balance Sheets for the financial years 2024 and 2025 prepared and maintained.
- Proper bank statements and financial records organized for reference and compliance.
- Separate event wise documentation files maintained for all major programs and activities.
- Official Minutes Book maintained professionally for meetings and resolutions.
- Proper media coverage records compiled and preserved.
- Expense files with signed vouchers and revenue stamps maintained for accountability and transparency.
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