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.


Tathastu Resorts Expands with New Wildlife Retreat in Satpura

Tathastu Resorts Expands with New Wildlife Retreat in Satpura

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 27, 2026

Tathastu Resorts has strengthened its presence in India’s wildlife hospitality space with the launch of ‘Tathastu Satpura’, a new retreat located at Satpura Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh. With this addition, the group now marks its fifth property, joining its existing resorts in Pench, Kanha, Tadoba, and Bandhavgarh.

Set amidst one of Central India’s rich forest landscapes, the retreat is designed to offer a peaceful and close-to-nature stay. The property features 34 Villa Rooms and 5 Exclusive Pool Suites, each planned to give guests a sense of space and privacy. With private verandas and forest-facing views, the stay aims to blend comfort with an immersive wilderness experience. A thoughtful detail includes rooms equipped with two washrooms, allowing guests a more relaxed start before heading out for early morning safaris.

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Sharing his thoughts on the destination, Mr Anil Agarwala, Managing Director, Tathastu Resorts, said, “Hidden quietly in the heart of Madhya Pradesh lies a destination that offers something far more peaceful, raw and authentic Satpura. Often overlooked, this forest region is a paradise for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and travellers seeking calm, away from crowded tourist circuits. At its core is Satpura Tiger Reserve, one of India's most underrated yet rewarding wildlife destinations, known for its rich biodiversity and remarkably tranquil safari experience where visitors can truly listen to the forest. With the launch of Tathastu Satpura, we aim to create a stay that complements the spirit of this landscape, immersive, intimate and deeply connected to the wilderness.”

Dining at the resort is led by ‘Gilhari’, a multi-cuisine restaurant inspired by the Indian Giant Squirrel found in the region, which is also the official mascot of the Satpura Tiger Reserve. The menu brings together Indian and international dishes, offering guests a wide variety of options. The resort also features a bar space designed with earthy tones and wooden elements, reflecting the surrounding forest environment.

Wildlife remains at the heart of the Satpura experience. Guided safaris give guests the chance to spot species such as Tigers, Leopards, Sloth Bears, Indian giant squirrels, sambar deer and several bird species. Known for its relatively untouched terrain, the reserve offers a quieter and more immersive safari experience compared to many other parks.

Beyond safaris, guests can take part in a mix of nature-led and recreational activities, including jungle walks, riverside sundowners, pottery sessions and reflexology walks. The resort also offers indoor options such as a games room, box cricket arena, karaoke evenings and a temperature-controlled indoor swimming pool.

Adding a meaningful touch, Tathastu Satpura has introduced a team of visually impaired spa therapists who provide therapeutic massage experiences as part of the resort’s social initiative.

With this launch, Tathastu Resorts continues to build its presence across India’s leading tiger landscapes. Its growing portfolio reflects a focus on offering travellers a balanced experience of nature, comfort and curated activities.

The addition of Satpura also highlights the rising interest in experiential wildlife travel in India, where more travellers are choosing destinations that offer both adventure and a deeper connection with nature.


CRC Partners with CBRE for Facility Management at Noida Project

CRC Partners with CBRE for Facility Management at Noida Project

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 27, 2026

CRC Group has partnered with CBRE to manage integrated facility operations at CRC The Flagship, its large office-led mixed-use development in Sector 140A along the Noida Expressway. The move comes as the project enters its final stage of construction, with delivery expected in the 3rd quarter of this year.

Spread across around 2.4 million sq. ft., CRC The Flagship is designed as a campus-style IT/ITES development. The project brings together Grade A+ office spaces along with retail, food and beverage outlets, and hospitality elements, creating a well-rounded business environment.

The master planning for the project has been done by Benoy, UK, with architectural inputs from RSP and Vastunidhi Architects. Several specialist consultants have also contributed across areas such as structure, MEP services, façade, lighting, traffic planning, and security. The overall design focuses on efficient layouts, smooth movement across the campus, and long-term operational ease.

Under this partnership, CBRE will handle end-to-end facility management services. This includes operations and maintenance, sustainability practices, technology-driven systems, and predictive maintenance. The scope will cover office towers, retail spaces, shared areas, and hospitality zones, with a focus on maintaining service quality and enhancing the overall occupier experience.

The office infrastructure has been built to support large-scale corporate operations. Each tower includes 10 high-speed elevators with destination control systems to manage peak-time traffic. The campus also features separate driveways for different zones, organised vehicular movement, and spacious multi-height lobbies, offering a premium arrival experience.

Sustainability is another key highlight of the project. CRC The Flagship is IGBC Platinum pre-certified and includes features such as climate-responsive design, high-performance façade glazing, centralised air conditioning with air quality monitoring, EV-ready parking, and a Building Management System to improve energy efficiency. The developer has also enhanced the nearby green belt to improve the surrounding environment.

Commenting on the association, Salil Kumar, Director-Marketing & Business Management - CRC Group, said the company was pleased to bring CBRE on board as the project nears completion.

“We welcome CBRE into the CRC Group ecosystem and place strong trust in their proven commitments and service delivery capabilities. As CRC The Flagship moves into its operational phase, we look forward to delivering a best in class workplace experience with CBRE, aligned with the expectations of global IT/ITES and enterprise occupiers,” he said.

With its scale, infrastructure, and location along the Noida Expressway, CRC The Flagship is set to emerge as a future-ready office destination, catering to the evolving needs of businesses in the NCR market.


Radisson Hotel Group Strengthens Europe Leadership, Eyes 2026 Growth

Radisson Hotel Group Strengthens Europe Leadership, Eyes 2026 Growth

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 26, 2026

Radisson Hotel Group wrapped up 2025 on a strong note with more than 272 hotel signings and openings, further strengthening its position as an owner-focused hospitality group. The performance reflects steady growth across regions and segments, setting a solid base as the group moves into 2026.

In Europe, the group continued to lead the upper-upscale category, with Radisson Blu maintaining its position as the largest brand in this segment, present in 154 cities. The brand also held its ground in the resort space, with Radisson Blu resorts spread across 27 destinations, showing consistent demand for leisure-led travel across the continent.

The year also saw the group entering key partnerships that added to its portfolio. This includes The Medlock, a Radisson Blu Hotel at Manchester City football club’s Etihad Stadium, along with collaborations on projects like “The Butler” with the MIMCO Group and Radisson Hotel Cannes Seaside with Byron Gestion. At the same time, existing relationships remained strong, with a majority of owners continuing to invest, and 65% of them operating more than one hotel with the group.

Sustainability remained a clear focus area. Radisson Hotel Group introduced two Verified Net Zero Hotels, Radisson Hotel Manchester City Centre and Radisson RED Oslo City Centre. These developments highlight the group’s push towards responsible growth while also offering long-term value for owners through environmentally conscious operations.

Commenting on the growth, Elie Younes, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Development Officer at Radisson Hotel Group, said, "We are grateful for the trust of our owners in our brands and our people. We create more opportunities and possibilities for our investors and guests across continents and segments, from midscale to lifestyle, luxury to resorts, and eventually crossing into alternative segments. The momentum that we achieved over the last years, alongside the competence and grit of our leadership teams, will secure more growth, resilience and opportunities in 2026 and beyond.”

On the global front, China emerged as a key growth driver, with 170 hotels signed and opened during the year, taking the pipeline close to 300 properties. Much of this growth was led by the mid- to upper mid-scale segments, especially through the expansion of Country Inn & Suites by Radisson.

India also stood out as one of the most active markets for the group. Crossing the milestone of 200 hotels in operation and under development, the country continues to play a key role in Radisson’s long-term plans, supported by strong domestic travel demand and investor confidence.

Across EMEA, the group recorded around 70 signings and openings, focusing on markets such as Southern Europe, the UK, France, Germany, and Poland. Key additions included projects in Paris, Bucharest, Egypt, Germany, and Barcelona, reflecting a balanced expansion strategy across both established and emerging destinations.

Leisure-focused growth remained a major highlight, with the group’s resort portfolio crossing 160 properties worldwide. New additions such as Atiara Ubud Bali, a Radisson Collection Resort, Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Çeşme, and Radisson Collection The National Hotel in Brussels underline the rising demand for resort and urban-resort experiences.

With strong performance across regions, a focus on sustainability, and steady expansion in key markets like India and China, Radisson Hotel Group is well-positioned to carry its momentum forward into 2026.

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