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K Syama Raju, President, FHRAI %u201cI am happy to see the Union Budget 2025 focus on growing India%u2019s tourism sector. The plan to develop the top 50 tourism destinations in partnership with state governments is a major initiative. This collaboration will not only improve infrastructure but also help spread tourism across the country, attracting more visitors and benefiting local communities. Additionally, the inclusion of hotels in the harmonious master list and the granting of infrastructure status to the hospitality sector is a significant move. This aligns with our longstanding request for granting of Infrastructure Status to the hospitality industry. This will facilitate access to cheaper, long-term financing, enabling hotels in these newly developed destinations to upgrade their facilities and offer world-class services, further boosting the sector.The focus on medical and wellness tourism through the %u2018Heal-inIndia%u2019 initiative in the Union Budget 2025 is a forward-thinking move that will strengthen India%u2019s position as a global leader in healthcare. India has already earned a reputation for providing world-class medical treatments at a fraction of the cost found in developed countries. By promoting %u2018Heal-in-India,%u2019 the government aims to further capitalize on this strength, attracting international patients seeking affordable, highquality healthcare services. This initiative will not only boost medical and wellness tourism but will also create a platform for India%u2019s healthcare industry to expand its global footprint. With the support of the government, healthcare facilities across the country will be encouraged to offer specialized treatments and services, making India an attractive destination for patients from both developed and developing nations.The introduction of visa fee waivers and e-visa options for certain tourist groups will make India an even more attractive destination. Simplifying the visa process will encourage more international visitors, boosting tourism and further contributing to the economy.The government%u2019s focus on promoting religious tourism is also noteworthy. India%u2019s rich spiritual and cultural heritage is a major draw for both domestic and international tourists, and the efforts to enhance infrastructure at key religious sites will create more organized, accessible, and enjoyable experiences for pilgrims and travelers alike. This will help further establish India as a leading destination for religious tourism, driving both tourism revenue and cultural exchange.The modified UDAN scheme, aimed at enhancing regional connectivity to 120 new destinations and carrying an additional 4 crore passengers over the next 10 years, is another important initiative. This will make travel more accessible to a larger number of people, driving tourism to both popular and emerging destinations and improving economic opportunities for local communities.The introduction of Mudra loans for homestay businesses is another positive step. It will give local entrepreneurs the chance to start and grow small tourism businesses, especially in lesser-known areas. This will help create more jobs and encourage tourism in these regions.The National Geospatial Mission to improve mapping and spatial data will aid in better planning and development of tourism infrastructure. Overall, these measures show that the government is committed to making India a top global tourism destination and creating new opportunities for growth, jobs, and innovation in the sector.%u201dSarbendra Sarkar, Founder & MD, Cygnett Hotels and Resorts%u201cThe Union Budget%u2019s strategic emphasis on tourism is a welcome move that will significantly boost India%u2019s hospitality industry. The development of 50 key destinations under challenge mode, along with streamlined e-visas and visa-free access for select tourist groups, will drive international footfall and enhance India%u2019s global appeal. The government%u2019s initiative to include new hotels coming up in 50 key destinations in the infrastructure harmonized list (HML) for projects where land will be provided by the state governments is a welcome step. This will help hospitality investors to avail infrastructure lending at easier terms with enhanced limits and offer access to larger amounts of funds as External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs).The government%u2019s plan to introduce a modified UDAN scheme for strengthening connectivity to additional 120 destinations and supporting helipads development in northeastern region will help to connect potential tourist destinations in the region.Particularly, the focus on the Buddhist Circuit presents immense opportunities for hospitality expansion. With greater infrastructure and promotion around these culturally significant sites, we see strong potential to develop quality accommodations and travel experiences in these regions, catering to both domestic and international travelers.Additionally, skill development initiatives through IHMs and financial support for homestays via Mudra loans will strengthen the sector, ensuring high-quality service and deeper community involvement in tourism growth. Cygnett Hotels is keen to align with these initiatives, expanding our footprint in high-growth destinations and playing a pivotal role in India%u2019s tourism success story.%u201dDr. Sanjay Sethi, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Chalet Hotels Limited%u201cThe Union Budget 2025 has outlined a set of impactful initiatives that will play a pivotal role in boosting India%u2019s tourism sector, underscoring the government%u2019s dedication to advancing the travel and hospitality industry. Key measures, includian visa-free access for specific foreign groups, simplified e-visa procedures, and the expansion of the UDAN scheme to 120 new destinations, will greatly improve connectivity and ease of travel, benefiting both domestic and international tourists.The planned development of 50 key tourist destinations in collaboration with state governments is a game-changer, ensuring better HOSPITALITY BIZ n FEBRUARY, 2025WWW.HOSPITALITYBIZINDIA.COMCOVER STORY 15Industry leaders have lauded these initiatives