TAAI’s regional chapters are witnessing leadership changes as new teams are elected across the country. The appointments come as the association marks its 75th year, bringing new leadership into its regional structure and setting the stage for the chapters to represent travel agents and address industry priorities.
AP & Telangana chapter
Vijay Mohan Raj, Chairman, Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) AP & Telangana Chapter, has been unanimously elected to lead the chapter. The election took place on 31 August 2026.
Raj returns to TAAI leadership after a gap of 20 years. He has more than four decades of experience in the travel and tourism industry, with leadership roles at national and international levels.
He was also elected International Director of SKÅL International, becoming only the third Indian to hold the position. Raj previously served as President of SKÅL Hyderabad from 2014 to 2018 and was Chairman of the SKÅL World Congress held in Hyderabad.
Speaking on his election, Raj said, “I am deeply honoured by the unanimous confidence placed in me by the members of TAAI AP & Telangana. Returning to the leadership of TAAI after 20 years, particularly in its 75th year, is both a privilege and a responsibility. I look forward to working collectively with our members and stakeholders to make our travel trade stronger, more united and future-ready.”
He said the travel and tourism industry is undergoing rapid transformation driven by technology, changing traveller preferences, increased connectivity, and emerging tourism segments.
The chapter is expected to focus on strengthening unity among travel agents, creating new business opportunities, professional development, industry advocacy, tourism promotion, and closer engagement with governments, airlines, tourism organisations, and other stakeholders.
Punjab chapter
Pankul Sharma, Chairman, TAAI Punjab Chapter, has been elected to lead the Punjab chapter. The election material identifies Sharma Travels as his organisation.
Rahul Bhadana is a digital editor at TravTalk with experience spanning multiple content niches, with a strong focus on travel trade journalism and digital publishing. A graduate of Delhi University, his work covers editorial writing, content strategy and platform-led storytelling, supporting TravTalk’s digital growth and industry engagement. A technology enthusiast, he enjoys films, poetry and exploring new ideas across media and culture.