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WWW.HOSPITALITYBIZINDIA.COM18 EXPERT SPEAK HOSPITALITY BIZ n FEBRUARY, 2025Davinder Juj, General Manager, Eros Hotel,New Delhi, Nehru Place%u201cThe provisions outlined by our esteemed Finance Minister in the Union Budget 2025 are encouraging. Her emphasis on positioning India as a spiritual destination is likely to generate increased interest among international travelers, thereby becoming a crucial driver for the growth of the travel and hospitality sectors and the broader Indian economy. The initiative to promote India as the land of Lord Buddha and Lord Ram is expected to attract Non-Resident Indians, which will promote tourism. Additionally, the focus on land acquisitions for hotel development is anticipated to draw foreign investments, further fostering growth and advancement in the sector. The reduction in visa fees to promote medical tourism is a noteworthy measure that will directly benefit hotels financially. Furthermore, an allocation of Rs 20,000 crore aimed at enhancing tourism-related employment will assist various states with prominent tourist attractions in developing infrastructure and improving connectivity. Overall the budget represents a significant impetus for attracting foreign tourists, which will, in turn, stimulate the growth of the hospitality, travel and tourism industries.%u201dKahraman Yigit, Co-founder & CEO of Olive%u201cThe Union Budget 2025-26 recognizes tourism as a key driver of employment-led growth and extending infrastructure benefits to hotels in 50 select destinations is a welcome move. The sector anticipated infrastructure status, GST reforms, tourism incentives, and increased investment in travel infrastructure to drive growth and ease financial access. The focus on spiritual and medical tourism, visa waivers, and regional connectivity through the UDAN scheme will further boost domestic and international travel, unlocking new opportunities for the hospitality sector. At Olive by Embassy, we see these initiatives as a step toward creating a more vibrant, accessible, and investment-friendly ecosystem for hospitality in India.%u201dK.B. Kachru, Chairman, Radisson Hotel Group South Asia & President %u2013 Hotel Association of India (HAI) %u201cBudget is progressive, especially with its focus on tourism and job creation. The government%u2019s commitment to developing 50 new destinations, and improving infrastructure, is promising. This year%u2019s budget very well highlights the importance of promoting spiritual and medical tourism with neighbouring countries and simplifying visa processes to enhance international travel. Overall, the initiatives taken by the government in this year%u2019s budget are the steps in the right direction for the industry.%u201dAditya Pande, Group Chief Executive Officer, InterGlobe Enterprise%u201cThis budget outlines a compelling roadmap for a Viksit Bharat. The focus on boosting consumption through targeted tax relief for the middle class, coupled with the government%u2019s commitment to streamlining tax procedures, will significantly improve ease of doing business and unlock further economic potential. At InterGlobe Enterprises, we are particularly encouraged by the strategic investments and vision for strengthening the holistic tourism ecosystem in the country, with the development of infrastructure and focus on skilled workforce. These initiatives lay a solid foundation for sustained economic progress and a brighter future for the country.%u201dDharamveer Singh Chouhan, Co-founder & CEO, Zostel%u201cWe appreciate the government%u2019s continued commitment to strengthening regional tourism and connectivity in India. The plan to develop the top 50 tourism sites in collaboration with states, along with including hotels in the harmonized infrastructure list, is a significant step toward boosting the sector. Enhanced connectivity, better infrastructure, and a strong push for medical and regional tourism will make it easier for both domestic and international travelers to explore India%u2019s hidden gems. Since its inception, Zostel has been at the forefront of sustainable and experiential tourism, working alongside locals and governments to spotlight lesser-known destinations. We will continue this mission and would be happy to collaborate with Bihar and other state governments to promote local employment, culture, and cuisine through responsible tourism.%u201dPranav Dangi, Founder and CEO, The Hosteller%u201cThe Union Budget 2025 presents a robust vision for India%u2019s tourism sector. The emphasis on infrastructure development, support for homestays through Mudra loans, and the inclusion of hotels in the harmonized scheme will strengthen the industry%u2019s foundation. Additionally, developing 50 tourist destinations will definitely enhance India%u2019s position as a global travel hub. Being in the travel and hospitality space for more than a decade, I see these initiatives as the required push for accessibility, affordability, and innovation in travel setting the stage for India to emerge as a top global destination.%u201d