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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.
Infrastructure Status for Smaller ProjectsFHRAI 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.”
Simplified Licensing and Single-Window ClearanceFHRAI 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.
GST RationalizationThe association advocates for rationalizing GST rates to make India more competitive internationally. FHRAI recommends:
Excise and Liquor Licensing ReformsFHRAI 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.
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.”
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.
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By Hariharan U
Published on September 3, 2025
Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal has unveiled the much-awaited revamp of its signature rooftop restaurant, Nazaara. Known for its stunning skyline views, Nazaara now returns with a reimagined menu, refreshed interiors, and an energetic dining experience designed to set the stage for unforgettable evenings.
The new menu brings a modern take on Indian cuisine, presenting bold flavours in a contemporary style. From inventive small plates to gourmet twists on classic mains, the offerings celebrate India’s rich culinary heritage with a creative edge. Complementing the food is a lineup of signature cocktails and refreshing mocktails, perfect for a laid-back evening under the city lights.
But the experience at Nazaara goes beyond dining. With a resident DJ setting the mood every evening and high-energy sets on weekends, the rooftop transforms into one of Bengaluru’s most vibrant escapes, where fine food meets music and the city’s skyline.
Speaking about the relaunch, Kadambari Sabharwal Talwar, General Manager of Courtyard by Marriott Bengaluru Hebbal, said, “Nazaara has always been synonymous with memorable evenings and panoramic views. With Nazaara, we wanted to reimagine that experience for today’s guests—bringing together inventive cuisine, crafted cocktails, and a lively rooftop vibe. This relaunch is not just about a new menu, but about creating a destination where Bengaluru can celebrate food, music, and city life in its most elevated form.”
With its mix of contemporary style, Indian flavours, and an electric rooftop atmosphere, Nazaara is all set to reclaim its place as Bengaluru’s go-to dining and nightlife destination.
Published on September 2, 2025
Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, one of India’s fastest-growing hospitality chains, has announced the signing of its newest property, Cygnett Retreat™ Collection by Wyndham Ujjain. This premium boutique resort marks a key milestone in the group’s strategy to expand across India’s leading pilgrimage and leisure hubs.
Set to open by mid-next year, the resort will be located just 12 km from the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple and Ujjain city centre, offering guests a blend of tranquillity and easy access. Designed to serve pilgrims, families, and experiential travellers, the retreat will bring together modern amenities with a setting inspired by the timeless charm of Santorini, Greece, featuring whitewashed walls, domed roofs, arched windows, and soothing blue accents.
The resort will feature 100 well-appointed rooms, an elegant all-day dining restaurant, and 15,000 sq. ft. of meeting and banquet space. Guests can also look forward to leisure amenities including a swimming pool, kids’ play area, fitness centre, and spa. From authentic local and international flavours to serene relaxation zones, the property aims to create an all-encompassing boutique experience.
Expressing his excitement, Mr. Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder & Managing Director of Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, said, “We are delighted to expand our presence in the heart of India, Madhya Pradesh. Ujjain is an ancient city with immense religious importance for Hindus. With major infrastructure projects underway ahead of the Simhastha Mahakumbh 2028, and its growing prominence as a textile hub, we believe this is the right time to enter Ujjain and offer visitors our ‘Cygnetture’ hospitality.”
He further added, “Cygnett Retreat™ Collection by Wyndham Ujjain will offer the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. With its Santorini-style architecture and tropical forest-inspired landscape, the property is positioned to attract a diverse mix of travellers”.
The Cygnett Retreat brand aims to fill the gap in India’s boutique resort market, offering curated stays that balance design, comfort, and experiences.
As part of its broader expansion, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts has forged a strategic alliance with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. This partnership will bring La Quinta® by Wyndham and Registry Collection Hotels® to India, with plans to add more than 60 hotels across India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal in the next decade. With this momentum, Cygnett is on track to becoming a 100+ hotel group in the coming years.
Published on August 31, 2025
Kamat Hotels India Ltd (KHIL) has announced the launch of its latest property, IRA Porvorim, Goa, further strengthening the IRA by Orchid Hotels portfolio. Scheduled to open in September 2025, the new hotel adds to the brand’s fast-paced expansion across India.
Following the successful debut of Orchid Passaros in Benaulim earlier this year, IRA Porvorim will offer 43 well-designed guest rooms, catering to both business travellers and leisure seekers. The hotel will also feature a banquet hall for events, a swimming pool, an in-house restaurant, and a fully equipped health club creating a complete hospitality experience in the heart of Porvorim.
KHIL has been steadily building its IRA brand presence in key tier-2 and tier-3 markets, including Mumbai, Bhubaneswar, Ayodhya, Noida, Nashik, and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar. The brand philosophy revolves around delivering value, comfort, and prime locations for mid-market travellers.
Reflecting its commitment beyond hospitality, IRA by Orchid has pledged to donate one percent of its sales towards community initiatives, with a focus on supporting the education of the girl child.
Sharing his thoughts, Vishal Vithal Kamat, Executive Director of KHIL, said, “Goa continues to attract both domestic and international travellers, and with IRA Porvorim, we aim to redefine hospitality in the city. From curated experiences to modern comforts, this property will serve as a preferred choice for families, corporates, and event planners alike.”
Adding to this, Vithal Venkatesh Kamat, Chairman of KHIL, commented, “Each new IRA hotel defines our growth blueprint. Porvorim reflects the essence of our brand: sustainable, stylish, and guest-centric.”
With its strategic location and curated offerings, IRA Porvorim is set to become a go-to destination for vibrant celebrations, corporate gatherings, and relaxed getaways, further boosting KHIL’s footprint in Goa’s thriving hospitality market.
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