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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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By Hariharan U
Published on August 7, 2026
Few cities celebrate craft beer quite like Bengaluru. Over the years, the city's brewery culture has evolved into a thriving community of brewmasters, innovative flavours, and lively social spaces. This International Beer Day, beer enthusiasts can explore two destinations that offer freshly brewed craft beers, delicious food, and memorable experiences.
Sector 144 Brewery & Kitchen has established itself as a favourite among Bengaluru's craft beer enthusiasts with its fresh brews and contemporary brewery experience. Led by Brewmaster Lynette, the brewery blends traditional European brewing techniques with locally inspired flavours, using premium German-origin ingredients to create balanced and approachable beers.
Its signature lineup includes Off The Wall Stout, Dangerous IPA, Beat It Hefe, and Billie's Wit, along with seasonal specials like Mango Jam, a tropical mango wheat ale. Guests can also look forward to the launch of a refreshing Pineapple Wheat Ale.
Complementing the craft beer selection is a globally inspired menu featuring comfort food served in a vibrant setting, making it an ideal destination for after-work gatherings and weekend outings. Guided by the philosophy "Brewed with Purpose. Enjoyed Together," Sector 144 continues to bring people together through quality brews and memorable experiences.
Location: Sector 144 Brewery & Kitchen, JP Nagar, BengaluruDate: 7 August 2026Time: 12:00 PM onwardsReservations: +91 97316 44144
A well-known name in Bengaluru's brewery scene, Chin Lung Brewery & Resto Bar is recognised for its brewery-fresh craft beers and energetic atmosphere. Its in-house brewing programme offers a variety of styles, including Lager, Hefeweizen, Belgian Wit, and India Pale Ale (IPA), along with seasonal brews that keep the menu fresh throughout the year.
The brewery pairs its beers with an extensive menu of Asian specialities, comfort food, and bar favourites, creating a complete dining experience for both casual visitors and craft beer enthusiasts.
Whether it's a relaxed evening with friends or an International Beer Day celebration, Chin Lung offers an inviting setting to enjoy freshly brewed pints and flavourful cuisine.
Location: Chin Lung Brewery & Resto Bar – All Outlets, BengaluruDate: 7 August 2026Time: 12:00 PM onwardsReservations: +91 77954 25395
Published on August 6, 2026
The Sleep Company has announced the opening of its new experience store at Vihang Ventura in Mira Road, further expanding its retail footprint in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Located within the upcoming premium commercial development by Vihang Ahead, the new outlet adds to the growing presence of national brands at the project.
The comfort-tech brand, known for its patented SmartGRID® technology, has grown rapidly across India with more than 200 stores in less than four years. Its latest store at Vihang Ventura is part of the company's strategy to expand into fast-growing suburban markets where demand for premium lifestyle and comfort products continues to rise.
Situated opposite Kashigaon Metro Station, Vihang Ventura is being developed as an integrated commercial destination featuring premium retail outlets, flagship showrooms, office spaces, and lifestyle brands. The project is attracting leading national retailers looking to tap into the growing consumer base of the Mira Bhayandar region.
The new experience store offers customers an opportunity to explore and try The Sleep Company's complete range of SmartGRID mattresses, ergonomic chairs, recliners, sofas, and sleep accessories before making their purchase decisions.
Commenting on the development, Purvesh Sarnaik, Director, Vihang Ahead, said:
"The Sleep Company's decision to establish its presence at Vihang Ventura is another strong endorsement of Mira Bhayandar's emergence as a premium retail destination. As consumer aspirations evolve and the region continues to attract high-quality residential and commercial developments, national brands are increasingly recognising the market's long-term potential. Our vision for Vihang Ventura is to create a vibrant commercial ecosystem that brings together leading retail, lifestyle and business brands in one landmark destination."
Speaking about the expansion, Sharad Shukla, Senior Director-Retail Expansion, The Sleep Company, said:
"Our retail expansion strategy is centred around markets that are witnessing strong residential growth, improving infrastructure and a rising base of aspirational consumers. Mira Bhayandar has evolved into one of the fastest-growing suburban markets within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, making it an ideal destination for our next experience store. Vihang Ventura offers the right ecosystem for us to engage with customers seeking innovative comfort solutions and a premium in-store shopping experience."
The launch comes at a time when India's organised retail sector continues to see steady growth, supported by strong retail leasing activity and increasing expansion into emerging suburban markets. Improved infrastructure, Metro connectivity, and sustained residential development have also made Mira Bhayandar an attractive destination for organised retail and lifestyle brands.
With The Sleep Company joining its retail mix, Vihang Ventura continues to strengthen its positioning as a modern commercial and lifestyle destination, bringing together brands across lifestyle, wellness, food & beverage, and retail while offering consumers premium shopping experiences closer to home.
Published on August 5, 2026
Air India Flight AI2379, operating from Phuket to Delhi, encountered severe turbulence during its journey on Tuesday, leaving 17 people injured, including 13 passengers and four cabin crew members. Despite the incident, the aircraft landed safely at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, where medical teams were immediately deployed to assist those onboard.
The flight, operated by an Airbus A320 (VT-EXO), was carrying 137 passengers, including three infants, along with eight crew members comprising two pilots and six cabin crew.
According to Air India, the aircraft experienced a momentary change in altitude during the cruise phase before stabilising and continuing its journey safely to Delhi. Flight tracking platform Flightradar24 indicated that the aircraft descended by approximately 300 feet around 2.5 hours into the flight, while flying over Odisha.
Following the landing, medical teams attended to all passengers and crew as a precaution. Eight passengers and four cabin crew members were admitted to hospitals for detailed medical evaluation and treatment. Air India stated that all those admitted are stable and are receiving appropriate medical care, while the remaining passengers were provided with the necessary assistance and support.
The Minister of Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, personally visited the injured passengers at Fortis and Medanta Hospitals to enquire about their condition and assure them of the government's full support. Senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation also visited the hospitals and are coordinating closely with the airline and hospital authorities to ensure the injured receive the best possible medical care.
The aircraft has since been moved to the hangar, where the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) have been secured for detailed examination.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the incident. The Ministry of Civil Aviation and DGCA said they are closely monitoring the situation, reiterating that passenger safety remains the highest priority and that all necessary measures are being taken.
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