Hospitality Leaders Applaud Union Budget 2025's Boost for Tourism & Innovation

Hospitality Leaders Applaud Union Budget 2025's Boost for Tourism & Innovation

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 5, 2025

The Union Budget 2025 has set the stage for significant advancements in India's hospitality and tourism sectors. Industry leaders have expressed optimism about the budget’s strategic focus on tourism infrastructure, enhanced connectivity, and skill development initiatives that are expected to elevate India's global standing as a prime travel destination.

Strengthening Tourism & Hospitality Infrastructure

Mr. Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder & MD of Cygnett Hotels and Resorts, welcomed the government’s emphasis on tourism, particularly the development of 50 key destinations under challenge mode. He highlighted how initiatives such as streamlined e-visas and visa-free access for select tourist groups will boost international footfall. He also appreciated the inclusion of new hotels in these destinations in the Infrastructure Harmonized List (HML), allowing hospitality investors to access infrastructure lending under more favorable terms.

“The move to include new hotels in the HML will provide easier access to larger funds through External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs), enabling greater expansion and modernization in the hospitality sector,” said Mr. Sarkar.

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Additionally, he noted the positive impact of the government's modified UDAN scheme, which aims to strengthen connectivity to 120 new destinations, particularly focusing on the northeastern region’s helipad development. The enhanced connectivity will unlock untapped tourism potential, further promoting India’s cultural and historical sites.

Hospitality Industry’s Growth Prospects

Echoing similar sentiments, Mr. K Syama Raju, President of the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), emphasized the budget’s role in developing top tourism destinations in partnership with state governments. He lauded the decision to grant Infrastructure Status to hotels in these areas, which will facilitate long-term, cost-effective financing and improve hospitality standards.

“The inclusion of hotels in the harmonious master list aligns with our long-standing request for Infrastructure Status, allowing access to lower-cost funding for hospitality expansion,” said Mr. Raju.

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Another major highlight was the focus on medical and wellness tourism through the 'Heal-in-India' initiative. With India already being a global leader in affordable, high-quality medical treatments, this initiative is set to attract more international patients, strengthening the country’s healthcare tourism sector.

The government’s focus on religious tourism was also well received. Enhancing infrastructure at key pilgrimage sites is expected to create more organized and accessible travel experiences for both domestic and international visitors. Additionally, the visa fee waivers and simplified e-visa options will further support inbound tourism growth.

Support for Entrepreneurship & Innovation

Innovation and entrepreneurship were also key focus areas in the budget, receiving praise from Mr. Sanandan Sudhir, Founder and CEO of On2Cook. He highlighted the government’s Rs 20,000 crore allocation to promote innovation and the introduction of a fund of funds for next-generation entrepreneurs as pivotal measures for fostering global capabilities in India.

“We appreciate the introduction of the National Framework for promoting innovation in tier 2 cities and the proposal for Centres of Excellence in AI for Education. These initiatives, coupled with the Bharat Trade Net platform to enhance international trade, will play a crucial role in positioning India as a global innovation hub,” said Mr. Sudhir.

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However, he also urged the government to reconsider the current tax regime and introduce lower GST rates for sustainable, globally patented products. He further suggested subsidizing international certification costs to ease export market entry for startups.

The Road Ahead

Overall, the Union Budget 2025 has been met with enthusiasm from the hospitality and innovation sectors. With targeted infrastructure investments, enhanced connectivity, and policy support for tourism and entrepreneurship, industry leaders believe these measures will position India as a premier global destination for travelers, businesses, and investors alike.


Stefano Tardito Wins Rēgula 2025 Award for Borgo Monchiero Heritage Restoration

Stefano Tardito Wins Rēgula 2025 Award for Borgo Monchiero Heritage Restoration

By Hariharan U

Published on February 6, 2026

Renowned Italian architect Stefano Tardito has received the Rēgula 2025 Award in the Hospitality category for his masterful restoration of the historic Borgo di Monchiero complex, now reimagined as Borgo Monchiero Heritage by Atmosphere, marking Atmosphere Core’s debut property in Italy.

 Presented at the 8th edition of the Rēgula | 100 Italian Projects Award in Milan, the honour recognises Tardito’s nuanced transformation of the 18th-century monastic and religious complex in Piedmont’s Langhe region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, into a refined luxury hospitality destination.

 The jury cited the project as an exemplary balance of conservation and innovation, applauding its seamless integration of aesthetics, technology and historical authenticity while showcasing the depth of Italian architectural and cultural heritage. Reflecting on the recognition, Stefano Tardito said, "This is a truly ambitious project based on a delicate balance between conservation and enhancement, guided by authentic historical research and technological innovation. The result is a harmonious encounter between past and present that allows the monastery to preserve its historical authenticity while evolving into immersive and seductive spaces where guests can enjoy unique experiences. The Borgo will thus be reborn and become an exceptional narrator of its past".

The award has further heightened anticipation for the official opening of Borgo Monchiero Heritage by Atmosphere, which represents the first step in Atmosphere Core’s European expansion. Set on a hill overlooking vineyards and rolling landscapes, the property features 19 rooms converted from former monastic cells, an ancient private chapel repurposed for intimate ceremonies, a restaurant with a wine room dedicated to local cuisine, an elegant lounge bar in frescoed halls overlooking a panoramic swimming pool, and a distinctive wellness area housed within vaulted brick spaces and an old terracotta cistern. Owners Franco Giampetruzzi and Gian Maria Debenedetti welcomed the recognition, stating, “This recognition celebrates skilful restoration and conversion by architect Stefano Tardito and enduring spirit of the property, and we are proud of his achievements. It reinforces our commitment to preserving its heritage while welcoming a new chapter”. With its tranquil cloisters, preserved architectural details and contemporary comforts, Borgo Monchiero Heritage by Atmosphere is poised to offer global travellers, wine enthusiasts and lovers of Piedmontese cuisine a deeply immersive and rejuvenating stay in one of northern Italy’s most evocative destinations.


The Park Navi Mumbai Receives IGBC Certification for Sustainable Hospitality Practices

The Park Navi Mumbai Receives IGBC Certification for Sustainable Hospitality Practices

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 6, 2026

The Park Navi Mumbai has been awarded the prestigious Indian Green Building Council (IGBC) Certification, reaffirming the hotel’s strong commitment to sustainable hospitality practices. The recognition highlights the property’s consistent efforts towards responsible design, efficient operations, and environmentally conscious initiatives.

Strategically located near the operational Navi Mumbai International Airport (T1), The Park Navi Mumbai has seamlessly integrated sustainability into its core functioning. The hotel offers guests a refined luxury experience while aligning its operations with global environmental standards. The IGBC certification acknowledges the property’s focused approach to reducing its environmental footprint without compromising on comfort or service quality.

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Among the key initiatives recognised by IGBC is the hotel’s use of solar energy, which has significantly reduced its reliance on conventional power sources. In addition, the property has implemented advanced water-conservation systems, energy-efficient operational practices, and structured waste-management processes. These include effective waste segregation and responsible disposal methods that ensure optimal use of resources across the hotel.

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Sharing his thoughts on the achievement, Rahul Makhija, General Manager, The Park Navi Mumbai, said, “Achieving IGBC certification is a proud moment for our entire team and reinforces our long-standing commitment to sustainable hospitality. From water-saving innovations to robust waste-management systems, environmental responsibility is deeply embedded in our operations. Our approach to sustainability goes beyond compliance, it enhances the guest experience while contributing positively to the community and the environment. We remain focused on protecting the planet and setting higher benchmarks for responsible luxury.”

With this milestone, The Park Navi Mumbai joins a select group of hospitality leaders embracing environmentally responsible practices. The recognition further demonstrates that luxury and sustainability can work hand in hand in shaping the future of modern hospitality.


Athulya Senior Care Founder Welcomes Budget 2026 Healthcare Vision

Athulya Senior Care Founder Welcomes Budget 2026 Healthcare Vision

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 5, 2026

As Budget 2026 introduces several progressive measures under its strategy for healthcare advancement through knowledge, technology, and innovation, the focus on strengthening geriatric care and allied health services has emerged as a key highlight for India’s evolving healthcare ecosystem.

Dr. Karthik Narayan R, Founder and Managing Director of Athulya Senior Care, emphasised that the future of healthcare in India extends far beyond hospitals and infrastructure. He pointed out that caregivers, allied health professionals, and geriatric specialists form the backbone of a system that ensures continuity, dignity, and quality of care, particularly for the country’s rapidly growing ageing population.

Commenting on the budget’s direction, Dr. Karthik Narayan R said, “India's healthcare future will be shaped not just by hospitals, but by the people who deliver care every day. The budget's emphasis on geriatric care, allied health professionals and caregivers, is a timely step towards ensuring a dignified, continuum of care focusing on quality of life for the aging population.”

With increasing life expectancy and a rising senior demographic, the demand for long-term care, rehabilitation services, and skilled caregivers is growing steadily across India. The budget’s recognition of geriatric care and allied health professionals signals a shift towards a more inclusive healthcare model that values preventive care, rehabilitation, and daily support alongside acute medical treatment.

Dr. Karthik Narayan R further highlighted that empowering caregivers and allied professionals through structured training, technology integration, and policy support will play a crucial role in building a self-reliant healthcare ecosystem. Such an approach not only improves patient outcomes but also ensures that seniors receive compassionate, personalised care that enhances their overall quality of life.

The emphasis laid out in Budget 2026 reflects a broader vision of healthcare that balances innovation with human-centric care delivery. By strengthening the geriatric care framework and supporting the workforce behind it, India moves closer to a resilient healthcare system that prioritises dignity, continuity, and long-term well-being for its ageing population.

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