Union Budget 2025-26: Paving the Path for India’s Global Tourism Growth

The 2025-26 Union Budget focuses on elevating India’s travel and tourism sector, emphasizing infrastructure development and financial incentives. Key industry leaders highlight potential improvements in GST rates, compliance processes, and connectivity measures. Overall, the budget sets the stage for sustainable tourism growth and extensive economic impact.

On February 4, 2025, the Union Budget for 2025-26 was announced, spotlighting India’s travel and tourism sector as crucial for economic expansion. The government intends to elevate India’s status as a global tourism leader by investing in infrastructure and offering financial incentives. Industry experts expressed optimism, discussing the transformative potential of the budget’s measures.

Hussain Patel, Director at TripJack, called for adjustments to GST rates and improved compliance processes to address industry challenges. He advocated for digital initiatives and skill development programs to better equip travel agents amid changing trends, emphasizing eco-friendly tourism promotion.

Amar Nagaram, CEO of Virgio, highlighted the need for improved logistics and digital infrastructure to support D2C startups, aligning with the budget’s aim to simplify compliance and foster partnerships between MSMEs and larger enterprises. Dr. Sanjay Sethi, MD of Chalet Hotels Limited, commented that enhanced connectivity through visa reforms and the UDAN scheme would significantly ease travel.

Navneet Nagpal from Spectra Hospitality Services noted that the expansion of the UDAN scheme would unlock regional tourism potential and improve training for a skilled workforce. Anand Vardarajan from Tata Asset Management foresaw increased discretionary spending due to higher tax exemptions. Rajesh Ghanshani, from STAAH, welcomed infrastructure status for hotels as a move to facilitate funding and development.

Shikhar Aggarwal, JMD of BLS International, deemed the plan to develop 50 iconic tourist sites a major boost for India’s global competitiveness, pointing to streamlined visa processes and support for homestays. Lucas Ramos from RCI endorsed the ‘Heal in India’ initiative to bolster medical tourism, further establishing India’s reputation as a healthcare destination.

Aditya Sanghi, CEO of Hotelogix, predicted substantial growth in religious tourism due to enhancements at sites associated with Buddha. Dharamveer Singh Chouhan from Zostel reiterated that improved infrastructure would make regional attractions accessible to travelers. Jatinder Paul Singh from Viacation noted that infrastructure improvements would positively impact adventure tourism.

Arun Bagaria, Co-Founder at TravClan, expressed confidence in the potential of the government’s tourism initiatives, emphasizing comprehensive approaches like enhancing tourist destinations and simplifying visa processes. Overall, the 2025-26 Union Budget lays the groundwork for a sustainable tourism ecosystem, merging infrastructure advancements, tax incentives, and technological progress to foster industry growth and employment.

The article discusses the recent Union Budget of India for 2025-26, which positions tourism as a key sector for economic development. India aims to enhance its standing in the global tourism market through various strategic initiatives, particularly in infrastructure, connectivity, and skill development. Industry leaders are quoted to provide insights on how these budgetary measures can address existing challenges and promote growth in the tourism industry.

The Union Budget for 2025-26 represents a significant commitment by the Indian government to enhance the travel and tourism sector. With measures designed to improve infrastructure, streamline processes, and stimulate economic growth, the budget is expected to foster collaboration between the public and private sectors. Industry leaders remain optimistic that these initiatives will propel India towards becoming a premier global tourism destination.

Original Source: www.travelandtourworld.com