Budget 2026 Expectations: Hospitality Leaders Share Views Ahead of February 1

Budget 2026 Expectations: Hospitality Leaders Share Views Ahead of February 1

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 1, 2026

With the Union Budget 2026 scheduled for 1st February, voices from the hospitality, travel, and premium lifestyle sectors are sharing their expectations from the upcoming budget. Industry leaders believe the budget presents an important opportunity to strengthen India’s post-pandemic tourism recovery while addressing long-standing structural challenges.

Dr Vikas Katoch, Founder and CEO of Adotrip, noted that India’s travel and tourism industry continues to show strong momentum, driven by rising disposable incomes, better connectivity, and growing interest in domestic, international, and luxury travel. He highlighted that one of the key expectations from Budget 2026 is the rationalisation of the GST framework for the travel and hospitality sector.

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According to him, the existing GST structure remains fragmented and cost-intensive in certain areas, impacting both consumer pricing and business margins. A more unified and streamlined tax framework could improve affordability for travellers, encourage higher spending, and create healthier competition, while also enabling companies to reinvest in service quality, technology, and product development.

He further emphasised the need to simplify regulatory compliance, particularly for startups, boutique hotels, and regional properties that currently face complex approval and reporting processes. Dr Katoch shared that the Budget for 2026 must focus on streamlining regulatory systems, including one-window approvals, to allow businesses to concentrate on innovation, expansion, and geographic development.

Access to credit remains another key concern for the travel and tourism industry. Despite its strong potential to generate employment, boost regional development, and contribute to GDP, the sector, largely dominated by MSMEs, continues to face challenges in securing affordable financial support. Dr Katoch suggested that the Union Budget should look at improving credit accessibility through measures such as inclusion under priority sector lending. Improved access to finance could support expansion into new tourism circuits and niche segments such as eco-tourism, wellness tourism, adventure tourism, and heritage tourism.

Speaking on luxury travel, Dr Katoch pointed out that demand for heritage stays, personalised experiences, and ultra-luxury travel is growing rapidly in India. He stressed that continued investment in infrastructure, road connectivity, cleanliness, and air connectivity would help India attract high-spending international visitors as well as discerning domestic travellers. He added that strengthening this segment would not only enhance India’s global positioning but also generate significant employment across the travel ecosystem. He concluded by stating that continued government support for sustainable tourism, heritage circuits, and domestic travel promotion in Budget 2026 could unlock higher economic value, inclusive growth, and employment through tourism.

Sharing views from the premium beverage segment, Aman Swetta, Cofounder of Cristal Azul, highlighted that the imported alcobev sector is seeking clarity and consistency rather than concessions from the upcoming budget. He said, “As the Union Budget approaches, the imported alcobev sector is looking less for concessions and more for clarity, consistency, and transparency.”

He explained that imported spirits currently operate under a fragmented framework, with central tariffs and state-level excise structures varying widely. According to him, greater standardisation of duties and clearer classification norms would improve price predictability, compliance, and ease of doing business for both international brands and Indian partners. He also welcomed recent progress in trade discussions with the European Union, including proposed tariff rationalisation on certain alcoholic beverages, and suggested that similar balanced engagement with other producing regions such as Mexico could further align India with global best practices.

Aman Swetta added that tequila is seeing growing interest in India’s urban markets, driven by premiumisation and lifestyle shifts. He noted that consumers are increasingly seeking transparency in provenance, ingredients, and production, favouring well-regulated and quality-led categories. From a Budget 2026 perspective, he emphasised that policy coherence across tariffs, state duties, and taxation mechanisms, along with predictable regulatory processes, would support responsible sector growth while ensuring sustained government revenue and wider consumer choice.


ITC Hotels Expands Storii Portfolio with Jawai Retreat

ITC Hotels Expands Storii Portfolio with Jawai Retreat

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 6, 2026

ITC Hotels Limited has announced the opening of Storii Jawai in Rajasthan, adding the 11th property to its Storii portfolio. The boutique retreat is designed as a nature-led destination, reflecting the growing interest in experiential and eco-sensitive travel across India.

Located in the Jawai region, the property is surrounded by landscapes known for leopard sightings, granite hills, and the Jawai River ecosystem. The area is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, including migratory birds, making it a unique destination for travellers looking to connect with nature and wildlife.

Developed in partnership with 1st Gate Luxe Pvt. Ltd., the property highlights ITC Hotels’ focus on expanding through collaborations while building immersive travel experiences.

The retreat features 15 keys, designed to blend safari-style elements with modern comfort. Guests are welcomed through a tented reception that leads to a colonial-style bungalow serving as the central lounge and bar. The accommodation is spread across villas set within a preserved natural setting, with features such as private courtyards, plunge pools, and tented structures. The design ensures minimal impact on the environment while offering a stay that reflects the region’s character.

Facilities include an infinity pool set on a hillock overlooking a natural lake, along with spaces for wellness and outdoor activities. The experience is further enhanced with wildlife exploration programmes and curated dining, catering to travellers seeking more meaningful and destination-led stays.

Commenting on the launch, Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited, said, “We are delighted to open the 11th Storii in Jawai. An intimate 15 key boutique retreat that distils the essence of quiet comforts in the wild, Jawai stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of modern innovation and timeless tradition. Storii Jawai is our tribute to the beauty and resilience of this region”.

Bharat Kumar Singh, Promoter, 1st Gate Luxe Pvt. Ltd., added, “As people from the soil, Storii Jawai reflects our belief in Rajasthani culture and traditions. It has been a humbling experience for us to be able to build a space for fellow travellers to come and immerse in our hinterland. We are grateful to associate with ITC Hotels Limited who reflect our values and vision, and have been with us shoulder to shoulder to make it happen”.

The launch also reflects rising demand for destinations that combine ecological sensitivity with cultural depth, especially in regions like Jawai that are closely connected to local communities such as the Rabari community.


Indian Hotels Company Limited Unveils Eternity Kanpur Under SeleQtions Brand

Indian Hotels Company Limited Unveils Eternity Kanpur Under SeleQtions Brand

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 5, 2026

Indian Hotels Company Limited has unveiled Eternity, Kanpur – IHCL SeleQtions, marking the debut of the SeleQtions brand in Kanpur, one of Uttar Pradesh’s key commercial and industrial centres.

Highlighting the significance of the launch, Ms. Deepika Rao, Executive Vice President – New Businesses & Hotel Openings, IHCL, said, “Kanpur, a vital commercial and industrial centre is witnessing rapid growth with its evolving infrastructure and increasing connectivity. The opening of Eternity, Kanpur, IHCL SeleQtions addresses the growing demand from corporate, MICE and social segments.”

Strategically located on NH-91, away from the city’s bustle, the hotel features 104 neo-classical rooms offering views of the cityscape. The property is designed to cater to both business and leisure travellers with a mix of comfort, connectivity, and modern amenities.

Dining options include Célesté, an all-day dining restaurant; Thea, a bar serving European-inspired cocktails along with an exclusive cigar lounge; and Aurumn the Lounge. Guests can also enjoy wellness facilities such as a spa, swimming pool, and a fully equipped gym.

For events and gatherings, the hotel offers expansive banquet and meeting spaces. The largest banquet hall spans over 11,000 sq. ft., making it suitable for conferences, conventions, and social celebrations.

Mr. Jalpreet Sodhi, General Manager, Eternity, Kanpur – IHCL SeleQtions, said, “We look forward to welcoming guests to Eternity - IHCL SeleQtions and offering a memorable experience in the culturally rich city of Kanpur.”

Located along the banks of the Ganga, Kanpur is known for its strong industrial legacy in leather, textiles, and manufacturing, making it an important commercial hub in North India. With this launch, IHCL continues to strengthen its presence in growing urban markets across the country.


Long Weekend Retreats to Reset After the Year-End Rush

Long Weekend Retreats to Reset After the Year-End Rush

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 5, 2026

After weeks of deadlines, financial closures, and the usual rush that comes with March, the Good Friday long weekend arrives at just the right time. Sitting right at the end of the financial year, it offers a chance to step away from routine, take a breather, and begin April with a clearer mind. Whether it’s the calm of a coffee estate, the stillness of backwaters, or the fresh air of the mountains, a short getaway can make all the difference.

At Evolve Back Coorg, the surroundings naturally slow things down. Set amid coffee plantations and rainforest landscapes, the experience here is all about quiet moments. Mornings begin with misty walks, followed by relaxed breakfasts, spa time, and peaceful hours by a private pool, making it easy to switch off from work mode.

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For those who prefer a deeper disconnect, The Tamara Coorg offers forest-lined cottages and sweeping hill views. The calm setting encourages slower mornings and evenings without screens, allowing travellers to gently ease out of the stress of work and return feeling lighter.

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If a slower pace by the water sounds more appealing, Coconut Lagoon provides a refreshing change. Surrounded by the backwaters of Kumarakom, the experience is simple and unhurried, with boat rides, sunset views, and traditional wellness therapies creating a sense of balance without the need for a packed schedule.

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For a more complete wellness reset, Ananda in the Himalayas stands out as a destination focused on mental and physical well-being. With meditation, personalised wellness programmes, and the calming influence of the mountains, even a short stay here helps restore focus and energy.

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Similarly, Six Senses Vana offers a more guided approach to relaxation. Instead of a typical holiday, it focuses on mindful routines and holistic wellness, helping guests return feeling calmer, more balanced, and ready for the weeks ahead.

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Not every break needs to be long to make an impact. Sometimes, a few days in the right environment is enough to reset both mind and body. With peaceful surroundings and thoughtful hospitality, these retreats offer a simple yet meaningful way to step into April with renewed energy.

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