International Conference on ‘’Net-Positive Tourism and Innovations for Sustainability”.
Punjab, India, 05–07 February 2026 – PATA India Chandigarh University Student Chapter organized the 3rd International Conference on “Net-Positive Tourism and Innovations for Sustainability”.
OVERVIEW
The event aimed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world industry practice. The event was honored by the presence of distinguished dignitaries. The Chief Guest, Dr. Satvir Singh, Director (Studies), NCHMC. The Guest of Honour, Mr. Sachin Bansal, Founder of India City Walks. Another esteemed Guest of Honour, Dr. Priyadarshan Singh Lakhawat, Director (Academics), NCHMCT. Adding further inspiration, the keynote address was delivered by Ms. Nidhi Bansal, CEO of City Explorers Private Limited. The Chief Guest, Mr. Harmohan Singh, General Manager of Radisson RED. The Guest of Honour, Dr. Gavin Dias, GM (Hotels, Marketing & PR) at Goa Tourism.
SPEAKERS
Dr. Satvir Singh, Director (Studies), NCHMC, Mr. Sachin Bansal, Founder of India City Walks, Dr. Priyadarshan Singh Lakhawat, Director (Academics), NCHMCT, Ms. Nidhi Bansal, CEO of City Explorers Private Limited , Mr. Harmohan Singh, General Manager of Radisson RED , Dr. Gavin Dias, GM (Hotels, Marketing & PR) at Goa Tourism contributed unique insights, blending academic knowledge with real-world expertise, making the discussions both practical and inspiring.
Highlights of the Day 1
· Leadership Addresses- The conference overview was presented by Prof. (Dr.) Manish Sharma, Director, UITHM, who shared the vision and purpose of the symposium.
· Global Participation from University of Newcastle- The event gained international significance with the presence of distinguished leaders from the University of Newcastle:
Prof. (Dr.) Alex Voninski, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Global) and Prof. (Dr.) Alex Zelinsky, Vice-Chancellor & President.
· Guest of Honour & Keynote Inspiration- The keynote address by Prof. (Dr.) Abhishek Bhati, Pro Vice Chancellor & CEO, University of Newcastle (Singapore), was deeply engaging, encouraging students to embrace innovation, sustainability, and leadership in tourism and hospitality.
Highlights of the Day 2
· The Industry–Academia Symposium created a powerful platform where education met industry, allowing students to witness real-world insights beyond textbooks.
· The Panel Discussion stood out as a dynamic exchange of ideas, where industry leaders openly shared experiences, challenges, and future opportunities in the tourism and hospitality sector
· The interactive Q&A Session gave students the confidence to ask questions, clarify doubts, and directly connect with experts — making the learning experience truly meaningful.
· Inspiring addresses by distinguished guests from the hospitality and tourism sector motivated students to dream bigger and prepare themselves for global careers.
· The day concluded with felicitation of dignitaries, cheerful group photographs, and informal networking over high tea — leaving everyone inspired, connected, and hopeful for the future.
Highlights of the Day 3
· The day began with a heartwarming Alumni Meet, where former students reconnected with their alma mater, sharing memories, experiences, and professional journeys that inspired current students.
· Participants then moved from Chandigarh University to the historic site “Chapar Chiri”, adding a meaningful real-world dimension to classroom learning.
· The welcome address by the Director set an enthusiastic tone, emphasizing the importance of heritage, culture, and experiential learning in tourism education.
· Insightful addresses by distinguished guests from tourism and heritage sectors offered students practical industry perspectives and motivated them to explore innovative opportunities in heritage tourism.
· The keynote address further enriched the session, highlighting the growing significance of storytelling and cultural experiences in modern tourism.
· The most memorable moment was the Heritage Walk and Storytelling Session, where history came alive beyond textbooks. Students experienced the site firsthand, deepening their understanding of culture, legacy, and tourism interpretation.
· The day concluded with media interactions and cheerful group photograph. Capturing smiles, learning, and the spirit of togetherness.
Participation:
Students from Chandigarh University actively participated in the summit, engaging in discussions, networking sessions, and knowledge-sharing activities. Their enthusiastic involvement highlighted the importance of youth participation in shaping the future of global tourism.
Conclusion:
Professionals shared practical insights on sustainable tourism, innovation, and the evolving demands of the hospitality sector. Students actively engaged in discussions, asked thoughtful questions during the Q&A session, and gained valuable exposure to real industry perspectives.
SUCCESS METRICS
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, alumni, academicians, and industry leaders, creating a vibrant platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration. Interactive sessions, and the experiential heritage walk reflected strong industry–academia engagement and practical learning impact. The positive feedback, active networking, and inspired student response clearly marked the summit as a successful and memorable step toward strengthening future opportunities in tourism and hospitality.
About PATA India Chandigarh University Student Chapter
A community of diversified young leaders from the departments of Tourism, Airlines, Hotel Management, and Culinary Arts, University Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management, Chandigarh University, united to foster tourism collaboration, promotion & awareness at a global level.
Student Chapter Social Media
Facebook: @patauithm
Instagram: @pata_icusc
For more information – Student Chapter Contact Person:
Ms. Harjot Kaur – Faculty Advisor | +91 9988446618 | ac.uithm.tm@cumail.in
Mr. Mukul Rampal – Chairperson, PATA ICUSC | pata.uithm@cumail.in
