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.

image

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.

image

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.

image

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.


Mogu Mogu Launches Global ‘Wanna Skip? You Gotta Chew’ Campaign in India

Mogu Mogu Launches Global ‘Wanna Skip? You Gotta Chew’ Campaign in India

By Hariharan U

Published on June 2, 2026

Mogu Mogu, the pioneer of the snackable drink category, has launched its latest global campaign in India, aiming to connect with Gen Z consumers through relatable everyday experiences and the brand’s signature sip-and-chew concept.

Titled “Wanna Skip? You Gotta Chew,” the campaign officially debuted in India on June 1 and explores the contrast between the frictionless digital experiences enjoyed by today’s generation and the unavoidable awkward moments encountered in real life. Through a series of humorous scenarios, the campaign positions Mogu Mogu as a playful companion for navigating uncomfortable social situations.

Developed by Thailand-based Sappe Public Company Limited (SAPPE), the campaign is built around consumer insights gathered across multiple international markets. Research conducted among Gen Z audiences identified three common awkward situations: maintaining uncomfortable eye contact with a stranger on public transport, being the only single person on a couples’ trip, and experiencing an underwhelming first online dating encounter.

image

Each scenario forms part of the campaign’s creative narrative, built around the idea that while real-life moments cannot be skipped, they can be “chewed through” with Mogu Mogu’s unique beverage experience. The concept aligns with the brand’s “Tangible Fun” positioning, leveraging the sensory experience of chewing nata de coco pieces found in the drink.

Commenting on the campaign, Vikash Singhal, Director and Founder of Sunbeam Ventures, Mogu Mogu’s distribution partner in India, said the brand has already built a loyal consumer base in the country. He noted that flavours such as Lychee, Strawberry, and Grape continue to perform strongly, while Blackcurrant has seen encouraging consumer response since its launch. According to him, the campaign adds a compelling narrative that resonates with digitally connected consumers navigating real-world interactions.

The campaign will be promoted extensively across YouTube and Instagram, supported by influencer collaborations and e-commerce activations. The media strategy aims to achieve significant reach among India’s Gen Z audience while strengthening the brand’s visibility across digital platforms.

The launch also marks Mogu Mogu’s largest product expansion in India to date with the introduction of Mogu Mogu Candy and Mogu Mogu Ice Tea. The new product additions further expand the brand’s portfolio beyond its well-known fruit juice beverage range.

Piyajit Ruckariyapong, Chief Executive Officer of SAPPE, highlighted the growing influence of Generation Z in shaping global consumer trends. He stated that the campaign succeeds because it is built on authentic consumer insights and reinforced by a product experience that naturally supports the message. He also emphasized India’s strategic importance in the company’s long-term global growth plans.

Recognized as the world’s first fruit juice beverage containing nata de coco, Mogu Mogu pioneered the snackable drink segment and has since expanded its presence to more than 100 countries worldwide. With a growing product portfolio and increasing popularity among younger consumers, the brand continues to strengthen its position within the global beverage industry.


NARS Opens Its First Gurugram Store at Gurugram's Ambience Mall

NARS Opens Its First Gurugram Store at Gurugram's Ambience Mall

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 2, 2026

Global beauty brand NARS has expanded its presence in India with the launch of its first store in Gurugram at Ambience Mall. The opening marks a significant addition to the city’s growing luxury retail landscape and further strengthens the mall’s portfolio of premium international brands.

Known for its trend-setting approach to beauty and its globally popular product range, NARS brings an immersive shopping experience to beauty enthusiasts in the National Capital Region. The new boutique showcases the brand’s renowned complexion, lip, eye, and skincare collections in a thoughtfully designed retail environment.

The store has been created to reflect NARS’ signature aesthetic, featuring sleek interiors, modern design elements, and a carefully curated display of products. The space is designed to offer customers an engaging beauty experience while highlighting the brand’s artistic and contemporary identity.

Commenting on the launch, Arjun Gehlot, Director, Ambience Group, said, “Luxury consumers today are seeking more than just products; they are looking for immersive brand experiences that reflect aspiration, individuality and global trends. The arrival of NARS at Ambience Mall further elevates our luxury retail portfolio and reinforces Gurugram’s emergence as a destination for premium international brands.”

Over the years, Ambience Mall has established itself as one of the leading luxury retail and lifestyle destinations in the NCR region, bringing together a wide range of international fashion, beauty, and gourmet brands under one roof.

With the addition of NARS, the mall continues to strengthen its position as a preferred destination for shoppers looking for globally recognised luxury brands and curated retail experiences.


District by Zomato Launches Inclusive Dining Toolkit for Restaurants

District by Zomato Launches Inclusive Dining Toolkit for Restaurants

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 1, 2026

District by Zomato has launched the Inclusive Dining Toolkit, a first-of-its-kind initiative designed to help restaurants create more accessible and inclusive dining spaces for persons with disabilities (PwDs), senior citizens, pregnant women, and others with accessibility needs.

The toolkit has been developed in collaboration with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Samarthyam, and The Association of People with Disability. Its development also involved consultations with persons with disabilities, restaurant partners, and accessibility experts to ensure practical and meaningful recommendations.

The initiative aims to help restaurants identify accessibility gaps, make operational improvements, and provide diners with greater visibility into accessibility-related information before they visit. In addition to promoting inclusion, the toolkit highlights how accessible dining spaces can support business growth through increased footfall, repeat visits, and larger group gatherings.

The launch event was attended by Ms. Manmeet Kaur Nanda, Additional Secretary, Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, who participated as the Chief Guest.

In a message shared during the launch, Shri B. L. Verma, Minister of State, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, said that accessible dining environments are essential for enabling persons with disabilities to participate independently and with dignity in everyday public life. He described the toolkit as a practical resource that can help the hospitality industry build more inclusive spaces.

Ms. Manmeet Kaur Nanda noted that the initiative reflects a broader effort to make public spaces and experiences more accessible. She highlighted that while significant progress has been made through the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act and the Accessible India Campaign, accessibility and inclusion should become a standard part of infrastructure planning and service delivery across industries.

According to the company, India is home to more than 2.68 crore persons with disabilities, many of whom continue to face challenges while dining out due to inaccessible infrastructure and limited information about accessibility features at restaurants.

During consultations, restaurant operators expressed a willingness to improve accessibility but also highlighted practical challenges, particularly around infrastructure changes in leased properties. The toolkit has been designed to offer actionable recommendations that restaurants can implement within such operational constraints.

Alongside the launch of the toolkit, District by Zomato has also introduced several accessibility-focused features on its platform. These include improved support for screen-reader users, accessibility filters on dining pages, and AI-powered solutions aimed at helping users make more informed dining decisions based on their accessibility requirements.

Through this initiative, District by Zomato aims to encourage greater inclusivity within the hospitality sector while helping restaurants create welcoming experiences for a wider range of guests.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.