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.


Qatar Airways and IHG Form New Partnership for Corporate Travel Rewards

Qatar Airways and IHG Form New Partnership for Corporate Travel Rewards

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 24, 2025

Qatar Airways has entered into a partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts to strengthen benefits for business travellers. Through this collaboration, members of Qatar Airways’ Beyond Business and IHG’s Business Edge programme will be able to access shared loyalty privileges, including the ability to earn and redeem points across IHG’s global hotel network.

Beyond Business already offers several perks to corporate travellers. These include earning and redeeming Qrewards, Privilege Club tier benefits, priority baggage, and the option to offset carbon emissions for past and future travel under Qatar Airways’ voluntary carbon offset programme. The programme also supports companies in managing their travel budgets by providing solutions tailored to their spending patterns.

With this partnership, members can now sign up for IHG Business Edge for free and start receiving benefits right from their first qualifying stay. After this stay, they are upgraded instantly to IHG One Rewards Gold Elite Status, get guaranteed discounts at more than 6,800 IHG hotels worldwide, and earn 40% more points on each eligible stay.

IHG Business Edge, launched in 2018, has grown into a dependable programme for small and medium-sized businesses across the world. It helps members simplify their bookings while offering exclusive rates and loyalty benefits. As part of the partnership, IHG Business Edge members who join Qatar Airways’ Beyond Business programme will also receive 50,000 bonus Qrewards on their first Qatar Airways flight. These points can be used for flights, upgrades and more benefits.

Qatar Airways Chief Commercial Officer, Mr. Thierry Antinori, said: “Recognised as the World’s Best Business Class by Skytrax in 2025 for the 12th time, Qatar Airways continually seeks to enhance its corporate travel experience and rewards. We are proud to facilitate businesses and corporate entities through our partnership with IHG Hotels & Resorts and their IHG Business Edge programme to deliver greater convenience and elevated experiences to both our members. Qatar Airways delivers a seamless passenger experience to business travellers at each touchpoint, from bookings to efficient transfers to offering Starlink, the world’s fastest Wi-Fi in the sky, for free onboard over 100 widebody aircraft. Through the partnership between our corporate travel programme, Beyond Business, and IHG Business Edge, organisations can now benefit from increased flexibility, exclusive savings, and value, maximising their travel benefits and rewards for greater returns.”

IHG Hotels & Resorts Senior Vice President Global Sales, Mr. Mark Sergot, added: “This collaboration brings together the strengths of Qatar Airways Beyond Business and IHG Business Edge to offer exclusive benefits, enhanced loyalty rewards, and seamless travel experiences. By leveraging our combined networks and expertise, we aim to provide exceptional value and convenience, supporting the evolving needs of our customers and making their journeys as seamless and rewarding as possible.”


IHCL Signs a Gateway Hotel in Mahapura Jaipur

IHCL Signs a Gateway Hotel in Mahapura Jaipur

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 24, 2025

Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), India’s largest hospitality company, has announced the signing of a new Gateway hotel in Mahapura, Jaipur. The upcoming property is a greenfield project and strengthens the brand’s presence in one of India’s most culturally rich cities.

Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President – Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said, “Witnessing a surge in demand beyond its traditional leisure and MICE segments, Jaipur has evolved into a multifaceted destination. The city’s infrastructural growth and its emergence as a commercial centre has made it a hub for business travel and Gateway Mahapura, Jaipur will cater to this rising demand. We are delighted to partner with Shri Modi Group for this project.”

Strategically located along NH48 Jaipur Ajmer Road, the 161-key Gateway Mahapura, Jaipur will welcome guests to the city’s cultural vibrance. The hotel will offer an all-day dining restaurant, a specialty restaurant and a bar. Recreational facilities will include a swimming pool and a modern fitness centre. For gatherings and events, the hotel will feature a spacious banquet hall spread across over 9,000 sq. ft., making it suitable for weddings, conferences and social functions.

Mr. Antariksh Modi, Managing Director, Shri Modi Group, added, “We are delighted to collaborate with IHCL to bring the Gateway brand to Mahapura. This partnership marks a significant milestone in our vision to contribute to Jaipur’s growing hospitality demand.”

Jaipur, known for its rich heritage, continues to draw travellers with iconic attractions such as the Amber Fort, City Palace, Hawa Mahal and Jantar Mantar. With the addition of this new property, IHCL will have 16 hotels in Jaipur, including 5 under development.

About the Owning Company:

Established in 1968, Shri Modi Group is a multi-generational Indian conglomerate with a strong legacy in mining and mineral processing, along with diversified interests in jewellery and real estate. Headquartered in Jaipur, the group is one of India’s key producers and exporters of natural minerals, including levigated china clay (kaolin), premium black marble, quartz, feldspar, limestone and silica sand. With mining operations across Rajasthan and exports to more than 15 countries, the group has built a global presence while staying rooted in its home state. Under the leadership of Mr. Anand Modi, Chairman, and Mr. Antariksh Modi, Managing Director, the group has introduced advanced technologies in marble mining and maintained high-quality standards. In 2010, it expanded into the jewellery segment with the launch of Jewlz by Neelam Modi.


Royal Orchid Hotels Opens New Property in Candolim, Goa

Royal Orchid Hotels Opens New Property in Candolim, Goa

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 24, 2025

Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd. (ROHL) has opened its newest property in North Goa, Regenta Place M.A.R.S. Candolim. With this launch, the group strengthens its presence in one of India’s most popular coastal destinations, marking its 8th property in Goa. The hotel will operate under the ‘Regenta Place’ brand, which focuses on offering convenient and affordable stays for travellers.

The property is located in the lively heart of Candolim and gives guests a comfortable blend of easy access and coastal charm. It features 36 rooms across four categories, designed to suit different guest preferences. The hotel also includes Limelight, a rooftop multicuisine restaurant that offers open-air dining with panoramic views, an infinity pool for leisure time, and the 1,1200 square feet rooftop Seasons Hall for gatherings and events.

Its location adds to its appeal, with Candolim Beach just 1.0 km away, Calangute Beach at 2.7 km and Baga Beach at 4.6 km, making it ideal for travellers exploring Goa’s vibrant beach belt.

Chander K. Baljee, chairman & managing director, Royal Orchid Hotels Ltd., said, “Goa remains a cornerstone of India’s leisure and business tourism. The opening of Regenta Place M.A.R.S. Candolim underscores our commitment to providing quality, affordable, and conveniently located hospitality experiences across the country. This new hotel, our 8th in Goa, reinforces our position in this high-growth market.”

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