Ram Seethepalli, CEO, Europ Assistance (India & Middle East Region), sees the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as positive tailwind and win for travel agents, not a threat in the current stage. He says, “Internal research shows over 70% Indian travellers now use AI to research destinations, but when it’s time to finalise, they still turn to a trusted human. India remains a high “personal touch” market. Technology narrows the options, but the travel agent helps close the deal” he says. And with regional tensions expected to ease, he anticipates a meaningful shift back from short-haul to long haul travel – precisely the higher-value business.”
With over 17 years of experience in the B2B travel and hospitality sector, she brings deep insight into travel trade dynamics, industry challenges and market developments. She holds an MA in English Literature and a Diploma in Journalism from the Xavier Institute of Communications, Mumbai, which underpin her strong editorial expertise. An avid nature enthusiast, she prefers outdoor and adventure-led travel, including hiking and trekking.