FHRAI Urges Key Reforms in Budget 2025-26 to Boost Hospitality

FHRAI Urges Key Reforms in Budget 2025-26 to Boost Hospitality

By Nishang Narayan

Published on January 19, 2025

The Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), one of the world’s largest hospitality associations, has outlined a series of reforms it hopes to see in the Union Budget 2025-26. Representing over 60,000 hotels and 500,000 restaurants nationwide, FHRAI emphasized that these changes are critical for bolstering investment, creating jobs, and driving the growth of India's hospitality and tourism sector—a significant contributor to the national economy.

Key Recommendations by FHRAI

  1. Infrastructure Status for Smaller Projects
    FHRAI proposes granting infrastructure status to hotel and convention center projects costing ₹10 crore or more. Currently, this status is limited to projects exceeding ₹200 crore for hotels and ₹300 crore for convention centers, along with a requirement for the city population to exceed one million. FHRAI highlights that these restrictions exclude smaller, tourism-rich towns, preventing their access to financing and infrastructure benefits.

    “India’s tourism sector has immense untapped potential in historically significant towns and emerging destinations,” said K Syama Raju, President of FHRAI. “Infrastructure status for smaller projects will unlock growth opportunities in these regions.”

  2. Simplified Licensing and Single-Window Clearance
    FHRAI calls for a single-window clearance system to streamline the complex and time-consuming licensing and approval processes. Simplified regulations would encourage investments and ease operations for hospitality businesses.

  3. GST Rationalization
    The association advocates for rationalizing GST rates to make India more competitive internationally. FHRAI recommends:

    • Delinking GST on restaurants from room tariffs.
    • Revising GST rates for restaurants, banquets, and events.
    • Revisiting GST’s "place of supply" rules to allow input tax credits for services sourced across states, thereby reducing operational costs.
  4. Excise and Liquor Licensing Reforms
    FHRAI emphasizes the need for simplified excise and liquor licensing processes. Drawing inspiration from the FSSAI registration system, the association suggests nominal fees and easier compliance to promote the growth of leisure and entertainment services.

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Addressing Industry Challenges

India’s hospitality sector, known for generating substantial employment and foreign exchange earnings, faces multiple challenges due to restrictive policies. FHRAI asserts that reforms in licensing, taxation, and infrastructure will enhance India’s competitiveness as a global tourism destination.

“Our hospitality and tourism sector is vital to economic growth, yet it operates under significant regulatory burdens,” Raju added. “Budget 2025-26 presents an opportunity for the government to align policies with industry needs, fostering sustainable growth and positioning India as a leader in global tourism.”

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Vision 2047: A $1 Trillion Tourism Economy

By addressing these critical reforms, FHRAI believes India can advance its vision of becoming a $1 trillion tourism economy by 2047. Simplifying regulations, fostering investments, and reducing operational barriers will create jobs, increase foreign exchange earnings, and drive the sector's long-term growth.

About FHRAI

Established in 1955, the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) is the apex body of the hospitality industry in India. Representing over 60,000 hotels and 500,000 restaurants, FHRAI serves as a voice for the sector, collaborating with government bodies and international organizations to support the growth of India’s hospitality and tourism industries.


DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bengaluru Outer Ring Road Unveils Reimagined Menu at Spot 360

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bengaluru Outer Ring Road Unveils Reimagined Menu at Spot 360

By Author

Published on July 30, 2026

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bengaluru Outer Ring Road has introduced a reimagined menu at Spot 360, its signature open-air poolside bar and kitchen, offering guests an elevated dining experience that combines global flavours, Indian culinary traditions, contemporary mixology, and warm Hilton hospitality.

Located atop the hotel with panoramic views of Bengaluru’s Outer Ring Road skyline, Spot 360 has refreshed its culinary identity under the philosophy “Curated. Crafted. Elevated. Reinvented.” The new menu focuses on premium ingredients, bold flavours, and innovative techniques designed for modern diners seeking memorable dining experiences.

The refreshed menu brings together progressive global comfort food with the richness of India’s regional cuisines and the artistry of traditional clay oven cooking. Designed around four signature culinary pillars, the experience balances creativity with familiarity.

The Artisanal Green Room features fresh soups and salads crafted with premium ingredients such as burrata, charred peaches, and pearl barley. The High-Octane Small Plates section introduces global lounge favourites enhanced with Indian flavours, incorporating ingredients like Mathania chilli, Kasundi, and wild mushrooms.

The Flame & Fire Grills selection highlights premium proteins including Norwegian salmon and New Zealand lamb chops, paired with refined sauces and expert grilling techniques. Meanwhile, the Comfort Sanctuary celebrates Indian culinary heritage through slow-cooked classics, aromatic dum biryanis, signature lagan preparations, and indulgent desserts.

Complementing the food menu is a new cocktail programme titled “Old Souls – Modern Pours”, which reinterprets seven iconic cocktails using premium spirits, house-made infusions, fresh botanicals, and contemporary mixology techniques.

Signature creations include the Smoky Negroni, Elderflower 75, Mediterranean Fig Old Fashioned, Milk-Washed Mediterranean Picante, Smoked Mary, and The Green Flame. Adding an element of personalisation, The Signature Surprise offers guests an off-menu cocktail experience where mixologists create bespoke drinks based on individual flavour preferences.

The beverage menu also features curated sharing cocktails, sophisticated zero-proof creations, and mindful mixes designed for different occasions.

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The culinary transformation has been led by Executive Chef E. Lokesh, while Food & Beverage Manager Binod Singh has curated the beverage programme, creating a seamless pairing between food and drinks.

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Speaking about the launch, Akash Kalia, General Manager, DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, said, “Spot 360 has always been envisioned as more than a restaurant, it is a destination where people come together to celebrate great food, handcrafted cocktails and memorable moments. With this reimagined menu, we have elevated every aspect of the experience, blending global culinary influences with the authenticity of India's rich food heritage.”

With this refreshed offering, Spot 360 strengthens its position as one of Bengaluru’s distinctive open-air dining destinations, providing guests with an ideal setting for sunset cocktails, weekend gatherings, intimate dinners, and evenings under the stars.

The new experience reflects Spot 360’s continued commitment to delivering contemporary hospitality through thoughtfully curated cuisine, innovative beverages, and memorable guest experiences.

About DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bengaluru Outer Ring Road

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Bengaluru Outer Ring Road is an upscale hotel located in Bengaluru’s Outer Ring Road IT corridor, offering convenient access to major technology parks, corporate offices, and business districts. The hotel features 172 spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities and private balconies.

The property offers three dining destinations: Asia Alive, an all-day dining restaurant serving global favourites with regional influences; Tapeo, a tapas bar offering contemporary small plates and handcrafted beverages; and Spot 360, the open-air poolside bar and kitchen featuring panoramic city views, innovative cuisine, and signature cocktails.

The hotel participates in Hilton Honors®, Hilton’s guest loyalty programme, offering members exclusive benefits when booking directly through preferred Hilton channels.


Vegas Mall Partners with Hindustan Marathon to Mark Kargil Vijay Diwas

Vegas Mall Partners with Hindustan Marathon to Mark Kargil Vijay Diwas

By Hariharan U

Published on July 29, 2026

Vegas Mall, Dwarka partnered as the venue partner for the 5th edition of the Hindustan Marathon, organised to commemorate Kargil Vijay Diwas, bringing together fitness enthusiasts, families, and running communities for a day dedicated to health, community spirit, and remembrance.

The marathon featured 21.1 km, 10 km, and 5 km race categories, attracting participants from across the city. Beyond promoting fitness, the event served as a tribute to the courage and sacrifice of India's armed forces while encouraging individuals to adopt healthier and more active lifestyles.

Commenting on the initiative, Ravinder Choudhary, Vice President, Vegas Mall, said, "At Vegas Mall, we are committed to creating experiences that inspire and unite communities. It was a privilege to partner with the Hindustan Marathon on Kargil Vijay Diwas, an occasion that reminds us of the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of our armed forces. The enthusiastic participation reflects the growing spirit of fitness and community engagement, and we are proud to support initiatives that celebrate both national pride and holistic well-being."

The partnership reflects Vegas Mall's continued focus on supporting community-driven initiatives that promote wellness, social engagement, and cultural awareness. Through events such as the Hindustan Marathon, the mall aims to create experiences that extend beyond retail while fostering stronger community connections.


Sayaji Raipur Introduces Curated Monsoon Stay, Wedding and Celebration Experiences

Sayaji Raipur Introduces Curated Monsoon Stay, Wedding and Celebration Experiences

By Hariharan U

Published on July 27, 2026

Sayaji Raipur has launched a new range of curated hospitality experiences for the monsoon season, offering guests customised stay packages, wedding solutions, and event services designed for leisure, business, and celebration needs.

The seasonal offerings include weekend escapes, extended stay packages, Shubh Vivah wedding experiences, and outdoor catering solutions, strengthening the hotel’s positioning as a preferred destination for stays and celebrations in Raipur.

The Weekend Escape Package has been designed for couples and families looking for a relaxing break. The package includes accommodation in Grande Rooms, daily buffet breakfast at Cravings, one buffet lunch or dinner, dining benefits, and flexible check-in and check-out options, subject to availability.

For business travellers and guests planning longer stays, Sayaji Raipur has introduced the Monsoon Long Stay Offer, which includes daily breakfast, one major meal, airport or railway station transfers, complimentary laundry services, welcome refreshments, and personalised guest assistance.

The hotel is also focusing on celebrations through its Shubh Vivah offering, providing customised wedding experiences with banquet venues, wedding lawns, décor solutions, curated menus, and dedicated event planning support. The offering caters to both intimate ceremonies and larger wedding celebrations.

Expanding beyond the hotel premises, Sayaji Raipur’s Outdoor Catering (ODC) services provide customised food and beverage solutions for weddings, corporate events, private gatherings, and social occasions. Supported by experienced chefs and banquet teams, the service aims to deliver the hotel’s hospitality standards across different venues.

Commenting on the initiatives, Mr. Mayank Mandela, Director of Operations, Sayaji Raipur, said, "Hospitality today is about creating experiences that extend far beyond accommodation or dining. Whether guests are planning a weekend getaway, celebrating a wedding, organising a corporate event or looking for an extended stay, we endeavour to offer personalised experiences backed by exceptional service and memorable hospitality."

Through these seasonal offerings, Sayaji Raipur continues to enhance its hospitality portfolio by creating experiences that cater to evolving traveller preferences, from leisure escapes and business stays to weddings and social celebrations.

Experience Highlights:

Weekend Escape Package

  • Daily buffet breakfast
  • Buffet lunch or dinner
  • 15% discount on additional F&B
  • Early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability)

Monsoon Long Stay Offer

  • Daily breakfast and one major meal
  • Airport/Railway station transfers
  • Complimentary laundry

Shubh Vivah

  • Wedding packages starting from ₹25 lakh onwards
  • Venue planning, catering, décor, and event services

Outdoor Catering

  • Customised catering solutions for weddings, celebrations, and corporate events

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