Feb 16th: The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) has announced the 56th FHRAI Annual Convention, scheduled from 21st to 23rd August 2026 at Taj Ganges, Varanasi. With 2,000+ delegates and dignitaries expected, the 56th edition is set to be one of the largest editions, bringing together senior government leadership, policymakers, hospitality leaders, tourism stakeholders, investors, entrepreneurs, and academicians from India and abroad. The Convention will focus on strengthening India’s tourism growth by reinforcing the domestic travel economy while enhancing the country’s appeal for inbound travellers, through future-ready hospitality and destination excellence.
The three-day Convention will feature keynote sessions, panel discussions, leadership dialogues, and networking platforms covering emerging traveller expectations, hospitality innovation, investment opportunities, and sustainable destination development. Hosting the Convention in Varanasi offers a powerful backdrop of India’s living heritage, culture, and immersive visitor experiences.
In the past editions, the FHRAI Annual Convention has been graced by senior leaders like Shri Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, in Lucknow; Dr. Pramod Sawant, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Goa, in Goa; Shri Siddaramaiah, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka, in Bengaluru; and Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Tourism, in Goa and Bengaluru, among other senior officials and industry leaders. Building on this strong legacy, the 56th Annual Convention is also expected to witness participation from senior government representatives, policymakers, and key stakeholders from across ministries and the hospitality and tourism ecosystem.
Speaking on the announcement, Mr Surendra Kumar Jaiswal, President, FHRAI, said, “The 56th FHRAI Annual Convention reflects the continued evolution and resilience of India’s hospitality and tourism sector. As the industry moves forward with renewed momentum, this platform will bring together stakeholders to exchange ideas, strengthen collaboration, and explore opportunities that enhance India’s position as a dynamic and diverse travel destination. Hosting the Convention in Varanasi further highlights the richness of India’s cultural landscape while encouraging meaningful conversations around sustainable and future-ready tourism growth.”
Over the years, the FHRAI Annual Convention has been graced by senior leadership and key ministries from the Government of India and the respective State Governments, underscoring the Convention’s role as a trusted platform for public-private dialogue. The 56th Annual Convention is poised to further strengthen India’s position as a vibrant destination for travellers while encouraging industry stakeholders to shape a future-ready hospitality ecosystem.