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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 March 28, 2026
Courtyard by Marriott Pune Chakan has introduced a property-wide upgrade aimed at improving guest comfort and overall well-being, with a clear focus on enhancing the stay experience.
As part of this initiative, the hotel has installed new mattresses across all rooms, addressing the growing importance of quality sleep for travellers. The move reflects a shift in hospitality priorities, where rest and relaxation are becoming key parts of the guest journey.
The upgrade has been designed keeping both business and leisure travellers in mind, offering a space that supports better sleep, reduces travel fatigue, and creates a more relaxed environment throughout the stay.
Commenting on the development, Amol More said, “At Courtyard By Marriott Pune Chakan, we believe that true hospitality goes beyond service, it’s about how our guests feel during and after their stay. This upgrade is part of our ongoing commitment to ensuring every guest experiences superior comfort, relaxation, and peace of mind.”
The refreshed room experience is part of the hotel’s continued effort to align its offerings with wellness-focused travel trends, where guests increasingly look for stays that help them unwind and recharge.
With this update, the property continues to strengthen its approach to guest-centric hospitality, focusing on simple yet impactful changes that make a noticeable difference to the overall stay.
Published on March 27, 2026
RECHARGE 2026 at Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Chennai, turned into a landmark cultural moment with a massive turnout of over 18,000 students on its opening day. The event brought together music, art, and student energy on an unprecedented scale, setting a new benchmark for college culturals in India.
In a historic first, globally celebrated music composer A. R. Rahman performed live on a college campus, making the evening truly unforgettable. His performance became the highlight of the fest, elevating it into a large-scale cultural spectacle.
The night also featured performances by well-known artists including Shweta Mohan, Rakshita Suresh, Amrutha Suresh, Nakul Abhyankar, Blaaze, Haricharan, Aditya R K, Nitesh Aher, and A. R. Ameen, creating a high-energy lineup that kept the audience engaged throughout.
RECHARGE 2026 was designed as an immersive platform celebrating creativity and talent, bringing together established artists and emerging voices in a single space.
Speaking about the event, Abhay Meganathan, Vice Chairman of Rajalakshmi Engineering College, said, "We are immensely proud to have hosted a historic moment not just for our institution, but for college culturals across India. Bringing A. R. Rahman to perform at our campus reflects our commitment to creating unparalleled opportunities and experiences for our students. RECHARGE 2026 embodies the spirit of innovation, passion, and excellence that defines our institution."
Following the strong response to Day 1, the fest continues with an equally exciting lineup featuring Prabhu Deva, along with performances by Saanvee Meghana, Nikki Galrani, Sayyeshaa, Shriya Saran, Anukeerthi Vyas, Samyuktha Shan, and Yashika Anand. A special highlight includes a dance performance featuring faculty members alongside the college dance team “Rugged,” mentored by Prabhu Deva.
Tejshree Abhay Meganathan, Executive Director of the college, added, "RECHARGE 2026 is not just a cultural event, but a celebration of the vibrant spirit and talent of our students. At our institution, we believe such initiatives play a vital role in nurturing creativity, confidence, and holistic development."
With RECHARGE 2026, Rajalakshmi Engineering College has redefined the scale of campus events, creating a new benchmark for experiential college festivals in India
CGH Earth Saha has expanded its presence in Tamil Nadu with the launch of Isai Karai, a boutique coastal bungalow in Mahabalipuram. Designed as a quiet and intimate retreat, the property blends the charm of a traditional bungalow with modern comforts, set against a culturally rich seaside backdrop.
Located just a short walk from the shore along the Bay of Bengal, Isai Karai, meaning ‘musical shore’, offers a peaceful stay surrounded by greenery and the calming sound of the sea. The property also enjoys close proximity to iconic landmarks like the Shore Temple and the rock relief of Arjuna's Penance, allowing guests to explore the region’s heritage with ease.
The bungalow features five rooms, spread across a three-bedroom main residence and a separate two-bedroom unit. While rooms can be booked individually, the layout also works well for families and small groups looking for a shared yet private stay.
Each room is inspired by the natural surroundings, with names and themes drawn from plants and trees on the property. Interiors are designed to bring the outdoors in, with open-style bathrooms, natural light, and green views. Pathways run through lawns and shaded courtyards, with tropical fruit trees like papaya, mango, and star fruit adding to the relaxed setting.
The design also reflects Mahabalipuram’s artistic heritage, with locally sourced stone elements, sculptures, and curated artworks adding character to the space.
Dining at the bungalow focuses on flavours of the Tamil coast, along with other cuisines that can be customised for guests. Fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients take centre stage, while evenings are best enjoyed at the poolside barbecue, where the day’s catch is grilled in a laid-back garden setting.
Beyond the stay, guests can explore nearby attractions such as the Mahabalipuram Lighthouse and the India Seashell Museum, along with local sculpture schools that continue the region’s stone-carving traditions. The beaches, known for their surf-friendly waves, also attract water sports enthusiasts.
With easy access from Chennai and Puducherry, Isai Karai Bungalow is well-suited for weekend getaways, longer coastal stays, and intimate family holidays.
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