Sustainability Meets Smart Innovation
TMS. Jaipur has emerged as one of India’s most promising MICE destinations. How do you see the city’s evolution in attracting national and international business events over the past few years?
Manuj Ralhan. The launch of the integrated Jaipur Exhibition & Convention Centre (JECC) and Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre (NJCC) has been a true game changer. Spanning over 1.4 million sq. ft. of event space — including expansive pillarless exhibition halls, a state-of-the-art convention centre, an 800,000 sq. ft. open ground, and an attached five-star hotel — Jaipur now offers seamless, large-scale event solutions under one roof, a distinction few Indian cities can claim. Over the past two years, Jaipur has witnessed a remarkable transformation from a heritage and leisure destination into one of India’s most dynamic MICE hubs. Backed by world-class infrastructure, proactive government initiatives, and enhanced connectivity, the city has firmly established itself on the national and international events map.
The city’s unique blend of modern infrastructure, cultural richness, and warm hospitality adds an experiential depth that resonates strongly with organizers and participants alike. At JECC & NJCC, we are proud to be at the heart of this evolution, providing a world-class platform that continues to elevate Jaipur’s global MICE stature.
TMS. Novotel JECC has played a central role in positioning Jaipur on India’s MICE map. Could you tell us about some of the major events recently hosted at your venue and what makes JECC stand out from other destinations?
Manuj Ralhan. The Jaipur Exhibition & Convention Centre (JECC) and Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre (NJCC) have proudly hosted several prestigious events including the Rising Rajasthan Global Investment Summit, Great Indian Travel Bazaar (GITB), Dermacon (IADVL), the 25th International Indian Film Academy Awards (IIFA), and the Material Recycling Association of India Conference, along with numerous corporate conventions and exhibitions.
JECC stands out for its scale, versatility, and seamless operations. Spanning 1.4 million sq. ft., it features pillarless halls, a world-class convention centre, and an integrated five-star hotel. With ample parking, open grounds, and flexible spaces, it’s ideal for events of any size. Supported by Accor’s global standards and Rajasthani culinary excellence, JECC delivers flawless experiences from start to finish. Together, these strengths make JECC & NJCC not just a venue, but a world-class MICE ecosystem that continues to shape Jaipur’s position on the global events map.
TMS. Sustainability and smart operations are now key priorities in global MICE venues. What sustainable or tech-driven initiatives has Novotel JECC adopted to enhance the event experience?
Manuj Ralhan. At Novotel Jaipur Convention Centre (NJCC) and Jaipur Exhibition & Convention Centre (JECC), sustainability and smart operations are at the heart of our approach. We are proud to be Green Key Certified hotel complex, reflecting our commitment to responsible hospitality and sustainable event practices. A key initiative is our shift to UPS-based power systems as an eco-efficient alternative to diesel generators. This innovation delivers a significant reduction in CO₂ emissions per event, while providing silent, clean, and stable power — enhancing both guest comfort and operational efficiency. With 98% energy efficiency, it ensures uninterrupted, reliable power for large-scale events, exhibitions, and conferences.
These efforts align with Accor’s GAIA² sustainability roadmap and corporate ESG and Green Key goals, reinforcing our role as an environmentally responsible MICE destination.
TMS. As India witnesses a boom in infrastructure and international connectivity, how do you think this is influencing the country’s competitiveness in the global business events market?
Manuj Ralhan. India’s growing infrastructure and better national and international connectivity are making the country stronger in the global business events and MICE market. Improved airports, modern roads, and world-class venues like JECC & NJCC make it easier to host large international events smoothly and efficiently.
With concert tourism on the rise, JECC and NJCC—backed by the Government of Rajasthan—are attracting major cultural and business events. Strong government support, India’s rich culture, warm hospitality, and cost-effective offerings make the country a compelling choice for global
organisers. This growth empowers JECC and NJCC to host world-class events and reinforces India’s position as a leading MICE destination with expanding infrastructure and connectivity.
TMS. The ICCA Congress theme revolves around collaboration and innovation in the meetings industry. How does your team at Novotel JECC embody these values in day-to-day operations and client partnerships?
Manuj Ralhan. At Novotel JECC, collaboration and innovation are central to how we operate and engage with our clients. Our team embodies these values in several ways that align closely with ICCA’s strategic goals. We actively support new business opportunities by incorporating innovative programming into our events — whether it’s facilitating new product launches, offering educational sessions, or guiding clients on leveraging ICCA services effectively. This ensures every event adds tangible value to our partners and participants. Innovation is reflected in how we generate and share new content. Our team contributes to the Global Knowledge Hub by producing white papers, case studies, and insights on critical industry topics, helping the wider MICE community access actionable knowledge. We consistently aim to deliver a world-class experience. From logistics and design to content, engagement, creativity, and measurable business outcomes, our approach ensures every event at JECC & NJCC reflects excellence, innovation, and collaborative success.
TMS. With India’s growing stature as a preferred host for international summits and conventions, what opportunities and challenges do you foresee for Jaipur as a MICE hub in the next five years?
Manuj Ralhan. With India emerging as a preferred destination for international summits and conventions, Jaipur has huge potential as a MICE hub. Our focus-driven and agile team ensures that guest experience goes beyond service—it is an instinct and a deeply held philosophy. We anticipate guest needs even before they arrive and personalize every touchpoint, transforming ordinary stays into unforgettable experiences. By combining operational excellence with this personalized approach, JECC is well-positioned to make Jaipur a top choice for international MICE events in the next five years.
TMS. Finally, what message would you like to share with global delegates attending the ICCA Congress in Portugal, about India’s readiness and capability to host world-class business events?
Manuj Ralhan. I would like to convey to all global delegates that India is fully ready and capable of hosting world-class business events. At the forefront of this are JECC and NJCC, which play a pivotal role in India’s MICE landscape. As one of India’s premier corporate and MICE destinations, we are strategically located within the Golden Triangle and enjoy strong government support, ensuring smooth execution of both national and international events. Our hotel complex spans 1.4 million sq. ft., featuring two pillarless halls, a convention centre, and parking for 2,000 cars, enabling us to host large-scale conferences, exhibitions, and high-profile delegations seamlessly. With our experience in managing global events and focus on personalized service, operational excellence, and sustainability, JECC and NJCC are proud to provide international delegates with a professional, efficient, and memorable event experience, showcasing India’s readiness for business tourism at the highest level.
