Tag Archives: Hospitality News

GIFT City liquor rules eased

Any person from outside Gujarat or India can now consume liquor at designated hotels or restaurants in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), a global finance centre in Gandhinagar, by showing a photo ID card, as per changes made to alcohol rules at the hub by the state government.

The Gujarat government has introduced major changes to liquor rules at GIFT City, doing away with the norm of obtaining a permit for alcohol consumption. The state home department has announced the changes through a gazette notification on December 20, further easing liquor consumption rules at GIFT City.

According to the latest notification, any “external person” who is not from Gujarat or a foreign national can now consume liquor at designated facilities at GIFT City by showing his or her valid photo ID card. This new rule discards the previous condition, wherein such “external persons” had to get temporary permits.

Gujarat is a “dry” state where the manufacture, sale, and consumption of liquor are prohibited. However, the government made an exemption for GIFT City in 2023, allowing the sale and consumption of alcohol in the central business district with some conditions.

Another change brought in by the home department pertains to the place where liquor can be served and consumed. Earlier, liquor consumption was allowed only at designated wine and dine areas of hotels or restaurants that have permission to sell liquor inside GIFT City. Now, liquor can be consumed in other areas as well, such as lawns, poolside and terraces.

As per the notification, any person coming for food is allowed to sit in the wine and dine area of a restaurant. Employees of GIFT City, who have a “Liquor Access Permit”, can host up to 25 visitors at a time at designated places, and visitors would get “temporary permits” provided that the host employee accompanies them, the notification stated.

HPMF Celebrates 15 Years of Transforming Hospitality Procurement

Mohan Deshpande, HPMF Chairman

The Hospitality Purchasing Managers’ Forum (HPMF) marked its 15th Foundation Day recently, celebrating a journey that has reshaped hospitality procurement across India and several international chapters. Founded in 2010, the Forum has grown into one of the most respected procurement communities, bringing together professionals, suppliers, and industry partners under one collaborative network.

HPMF Chairman Mohan Deshpande noted that HPMF’s 15 years represent a powerful story of ethics, collaboration, and growth. “What began as a small initiative is today a movement that influences procurement strategy across the country.”

Dr. Sanjay Goyal, Vice Chairman

Vice Chairman Dr. Sanjay Goyal emphasised HPMF’s strategic influence, noting that it has transformed procurement into a knowledge-led, technology-enabled, sustainability-driven discipline. He highlighted the Forum’s role in promoting Atma Nirbhar Bharat and Make in India by empowering Indian suppliers and supporting economic self-reliance. He reiterated the focus on building global-standard procurement professionals.

Dr. Nitin Nagrale, Founder & General Secretary

Founder & General Secretary Dr. Nitin Nagrale said HPMF was envisioned as a platform to unite procurement professionals, and enhance industry capabilities. The Forum contributes to national missions, supports local industries, and sets new benchmarks in global procurement practices.

Over the past decade and a half, HPMF has strengthened the procurement ecosystem through knowledge-sharing, capability development, ethical sourcing, and sustainability advocacy. It has worked to elevate industry standards, encourage cross-industry collaboration, and create a unified platform for hospitality professionals and supply partners. The Forum’s work mirrors India’s national development priorities, integrating progressive procurement practices into broader economic and sustainability goals.

Aligned with national missions, HPMF has championed Make in India by motivating members to discover, support, and source from homegrown manufacturers. It has further advanced the vision of Atma Nirbhar Bharat by empowering MSMEs and local suppliers to build world-class competencies. The Forum has contributed to the Skill India Mission through training programmes and knowledge platforms that raise professional capabilities across the sector. It has promoted Digital India ideals through its advocacy for automation, digital procurement tools, and enhanced transparency. In addition, HPMF has been a strong supporter of Swachh Bharat and sustainability-led initiatives focusing on responsible sourcing, waste reduction, and eco-conscious practices.

HPMF’s 15-year track record reflects a series of milestones: a growing community spanning India, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific; 12 National Conventions held across Indian destinations; engagement through panel discussions, training sessions, white papers, and supplier development forums; support for MSMEs, startups, and local manufacturers; and ongoing efforts to benchmark and elevate the standards of hospitality procurement.

As part of its forward-looking agenda, HPMF has launched the ambitious Project 100 – 100 Activities in 1000 Days. This initiative aims to deliver long-term impact through capability-building programmes, standardisation measures, supplier development initiatives, sustainability frameworks, digital transformation guidelines, and youth-focused skilling efforts. The project is designed to redefine procurement practices and help build a strong pipeline of future-ready professionals.