News

Arunachal to develop World War II Museum to showcase Burma campaign history

The Government of Arunachal Pradesh has announced plans to further develop the World War II Museum at Jairampur in Changlang district, with a focus on preserving the historical legacy of the Burma Campaign and the strategic Stilwell Road. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, who chaired a high-level meeting on Thursday, emphasised the region’s significance during World War II and the critical role played by the indigenous communities. “The area around the Pangsau Pass and Stilwell Road holds immense historical value. We envision a distinctive museum that not only preserves this legacy but also positions the region as a major heritage and tourism destination,” Mein stated. The museum, situated along the historic Stilwell Road, a route constructed during World War II to connect India to China via Myanmar, will see enhanced curation with the addition of more artefacts and a special gallery. This dedicated section will honour the contributions of local tribal communities such as the Singpho, Khamti, Adi, Nocte, Mishmi, and Naga people, many of whom served as soldiers and porters during the campaign known locally as the ‘Burma War’. To increase public engagement and tourism, events such as a Willy Jeep rally from the Hump WWII Museum in Pasighat to Pangsau Pass, as well as a supercar rally, are being planned in conjunction with the Pangsau Pass Winter Festival. To oversee the initiative, a dedicated committee has been formed with Research Minister Dasanglu Pul as Chairperson, Chowna Mein as Chief Advisor, and MLAs Laisam Simai and Oken Tayeng as Advisors. Research Secretary B.J. Duai will serve as Member Secretary. The committee meeting also featured a detailed presentation by Lt Col T.C. Tayum, who outlined the progress in artefact collection and curation efforts for the museum.

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IndiGo launches new Bhubaneswar to Abu Dhabi and Visakhapatnam routes, boosting international and regional connectivity

IndiGo has commenced operations on two new routes connecting Bhubaneswar wit h Abu Dhabi and Visakhapatnam respectively, further strengthening regional as well as international connectivity from Odisha. The inaugural flight from Bhubaneshwar to Abu Dhabi, was flagged off by the Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, expressing his support to IndiGo’s commitment towards making air travel more accessible, convenient, and affordable for customers across the state. The newly launched flights, with support from the Odisha government under New Destination Policy, offer direct international connectivity between Bhubaneswar and Abu Dhabi, operating three times a week, as well as enhanced regional access with daily direct flights between Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam.

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India’s Fast Growing Cordelia Cruises Seeks Seven Hundred Twenty Seven Crore Rupees Capital Infusion Through IPO Filing To Cement Its Leadership In The Emerging Domestic Cruise Sector

India’s leading cruise operator, Cordelia Cruises, has taken a bold step toward expanding its dominance in the rapidly growing domestic cruise market by filing draft papers with the Securities and Exchange Board of India to raise seven hundred twenty seven crore rupees through an initial public offering. With plans to utilize a significant portion of the proceeds for vessel acquisitions and lease payments, the Mumbai-based company aims to strengthen its operational capacity, expand its fleet, and capitalize on the surging demand for cruise tourism across India’s key coastal destinations, positioning itself as a key player in the nation’s booming travel sector. Mumbai-based Waterways Leisure Tourism, which operates India’s popular Cordelia Cruises brand, has taken a major step toward expanding its presence in the fast-growing domestic cruise sector by filing draft red herring papers (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). The company aims to raise up to Rs 727 crore through an initial public offering (IPO), a move that is expected to provide significant momentum to its ambitious growth strategy. Unlike many public offerings where existing shareholders partially offload their stakes through offer-for-sale components, this IPO will consist entirely of a fresh issue of shares. As a result, Waterways Leisure Tourism will receive the full proceeds of the issue, which will directly bolster its financial resources. This approach indicates the promoters’ long-term commitment to the company and reflects confidence in the future prospects of India’s nascent but rapidly expanding cruise industry.

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St. Simons Island Rises as a Surging Coastal Treasure Amid Booming Demand for Tranquil, Scenic, and Underrated Travel Destinations Throughout Georgia

St. Simons Island, Georgia — A quiet island once known primarily to locals is now stepping into the national and international spotlight. St. Simons Island, nestled off the coast of Georgia, has been recognized as the top underrated travel destination in the United States, a title that may well change the way both domestic and international travelers plan their vacations moving forward. The surge of attention toward this tranquil destination is expected to have ripple effects beyond U.S. borders. As global travelers increasingly seek less crowded, scenic, and authentic experiences, St. Simons Island is emerging as a strong contender. For those looking to escape the often overpopulated and commercialized vacation spots, this barrier island offers a compelling alternative. Tourism professionals across the globe are likely to recalibrate their strategies. With increased interest in lesser-known U.S. destinations, tour operators, accommodation providers, and local entrepreneurs may soon feel the impact. A rising demand could lead to expanded travel packages, updated travel guides, and growing infrastructure on and around the island. Shifting Traveler Preferences Tourism analysts have been noticing a growing trend: a desire for off-the-beaten-path locations. In contrast to bustling tourist magnets, places like St. Simons Island offer something different—peace, natural beauty, and cultural charm without the rush. International travelers, particularly those seeking more eco-friendly and culturally immersive experiences, are gravitating toward destinations that offer serenity and sustainability. The island’s maritime forests, dune-lined beaches, and sprawling live oak trees give it a distinctly unspoiled appeal. This atmosphere resonates strongly with those weary of overtourism and seeking a rejuvenating getaway.

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Adora Cruises Introduces Summer-Themed Cruises with Unique Animation Experiences on Adora Magic City

Adora Cruises is bringing a wave of excitement to the high seas this summer with a lineup of themed cruises aboard the Adora Magic City. The company has just revealed its exciting plans during the 2025 Shanghai International Cruise Festival, offering travelers an immersive blend of adventure, culture, and entertainment. The highlight of these summer sailings? An eight-night cruise that takes guests from Shanghai to Japan and South Korea, promising unforgettable experiences and a deeper dive into the world of animation.

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Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort and Spa appoints Shivansh Dixit as Assistant Marketing and Communication Manager

Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort and Spa has announced the appointment of Shivansh Dixit as the Assistant Marketing and Communication Manager. With a strong foundation in digital marketing and brand communication, Shivansh brings a fresh perspective and strategic vision to the resort’s marketing initiatives. Shivansh holds a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management from the Institute of Hotel Management, Aurangabad, in academic association with the University of Huddersfield, UK. He has honed his skills through immersive training and work experiences, including a comprehensive stint with Courtyard by Marriott Aravali Resort as part of the prestigious Marriott Voyage Program. In his new role, Shivansh will be responsible for supporting the planning and execution of the resort’s marketing and communication strategies, including media relations, digital marketing, social media management, content creation, and brand positioning. He will also assist in driving guest engagement through storytelling, campaign development, and strategic collaborations to enhance the visibility and reputation of Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort and Spa. “We are delighted to welcome Shivansh to our team. His dynamic approach to marketing and communications aligns perfectly with our brand ethos of unlocking the destination and curating timeless experiences for our guests,” said Anand Choubey, General Manager of Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort and Spa.

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