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.


Vegas Mall Welcomes Kraus Jeans to Its Fashion Destination Portfolio

Vegas Mall Welcomes Kraus Jeans to Its Fashion Destination Portfolio

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 13, 2026

Vegas Mall, known as a leading fashion, lifestyle, entertainment and dining destination in Dwarka, has announced the grand opening of Kraus Jeans on the 2nd floor. The new store further strengthens the mall’s fashion portfolio and gives shoppers access to more premium and trend-focused denim and casualwear options.

Kraus Jeans is widely recognised for its high-quality denim and flattering fits designed for women. With its latest collection now available at Vegas Mall, customers can explore a wide range of styles, washes, and silhouettes, all under one roof in the heart of Dwarka. The brand’s presence adds fresh energy to the mall’s already strong fashion offering.

Sharing his thoughts on the launch, Ravinder Choudhary, Vice-President, Vegas Mall, said, “We are delighted to welcome Kraus Jeans to the Vegas Mall family. Fashion is at the core of what we offer here, and Kraus Jeans’ entry underscores our commitment to bringing both established and emerging brands to our shoppers. With the continued growth of our fashion portfolio, we aim to provide even more choices and a superior shopping experience for visitors from Dwarka and beyond.”

Over the years, Vegas Mall has built a reputation as a preferred shopping and leisure destination, bringing together national and international apparel brands, lifestyle outlets, entertainment spaces, and dining options. The addition of Kraus Jeans is in line with the mall’s ongoing effort to enhance the overall retail experience and cater to changing customer preferences.


Kairali, The Ayurvedic Healing Village India Announces Exclusive North American Partnership with Sky Vacations

Kairali, The Ayurvedic Healing Village India Announces Exclusive North American Partnership with Sky Vacations

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 12, 2026

Kairali – The Ayurvedic Healing Village (KTAHV) has announced its exclusive North American partnership with Sky Vacations, one of North America’s premier luxury tour operators known for curated and culturally immersive travel experiences. The collaboration aims to bring the healing benefits of authentic 5000-year-old Kerala Ayurveda practice to travellers across North America.

Located in the lush foothills of Palakkad and spread across 63 acres, Kairali The Ayurvedic Healing Village has been welcoming global guests for more than 26 years. Recognised worldwide for its authentic Ayurveda-based wellness experiences, the retreat blends traditional healing therapies with modern comfort, personalised care, and a strong focus on sustainability and wellbeing.

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“Bringing travellers the most authentic and enriching travel opportunities is one of our core pillars,” said Richard Krieger, Director of Sky Vacations. “As Kairali The Ayurvedic Healing Village’s exclusive representative partner in North America, we are thrilled to expand our health and wellness portfolio with a property that so perfectly embodies authenticity, excellence, and purpose."

At the heart of Kairali’s offering is a medically guided and personalised wellness approach. Each guest undergoes customised programs supervised by experienced Ayurvedic doctors and therapists. The treatments combine traditional therapies, yoga, meditation, and lifestyle guidance. Supporting this journey is farm-to-table cuisine prepared using organically grown, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that nourishment and healing go hand in hand.

“It is a great honour for us. Ayurveda is a 5000-year-old science, and working with Sky Vacations as our North American partner and representative helps us introduce the benefits of truly authentic Ayurveda and its healing benefits to more North American audiences,” said Abhilash Ramesh, Director of Kairali Ayurvedic Group. “Sky Vacations has a stellar reputation for creating extraordinary global journeys, and their depth of knowledge and experience in India is truly unparalleled”.

KTAHV offers a wide range of wellness programs designed for both preventive and restorative health. These include detoxification and rejuvenation therapies (panchakarma), weight and dietary management, stress relief, energy restoration, women’s wellness, immunity enhancement, pain management, and long-term lifestyle reset plans. Each program is carefully structured to ensure benefits that continue well beyond the stay.

For Sky Vacations, this partnership strengthens its focus on meaningful and transformative travel. With decades of experience in designing high-end journeys across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas and strong expertise in travel to India, the company is well positioned to introduce KTAHV to the North American market.

“This partnership reflects everything our guests expect from Sky Vacations: carefully curated experiences, exceptional quality, healing in a globally recognised Ayurvedic retreat and access to the very best the world has to offer.” Further, continued Mr. Krieger.

At KTAHV, guests can access traditional, medically guided Ayurvedic programs including Ayurvedic Massages (treatments), Detox programs, Yoga, Meditation, lifestyle guidance, diet programs, Farm-to-table food using organic, locally sourced ingredients, and authentic Ayurvedic supplements and medicines, all overseen by experienced Ayurvedic doctors and therapists aligned to each individual requirement.

This exclusive collaboration reflects the growing global demand for wellness travel that delivers more than relaxation. Through this partnership, Sky Vacations and Kairali aim to create a new benchmark for authentic Ayurvedic wellness travel in the North American market.


Ronil Goa – JdV by Hyatt Celebrates Valentine’s Season with Inclusive, All-Heart Experiences

Ronil Goa – JdV by Hyatt Celebrates Valentine’s Season with Inclusive, All-Heart Experiences

By Hariharan U

Published on February 11, 2026

This Valentine’s season, Ronil Goa – a JdV by Hyatt Hotel – is embracing love in all its forms, inviting guests to celebrate togetherness with partners, friends, family, pets and even themselves. Rooted in the values of diversity, equity and inclusion, the boutique pet-friendly resort in the heart of North Goa has curated a month-long lineup of experiences throughout February 2026, ensuring every guest feels welcome and free to celebrate love their own way.

Recognising that love often comes with paws, Ronil Goa continues to offer pet-friendly stays with dedicated amenities, pet menus and open spaces designed for relaxed bonding. Guests can book these stays via Hyatt.com and enjoy the brand’s best rate guarantee. The resort also encourages reunions and staycations, inviting families and friends to reconnect at its Indo-Portuguese inspired setting through customised gatherings, offsite excursions, pool parties and celebratory experiences.

Valentine’s at Ronil Goa also places strong emphasis on self-love and wellbeing. Guests are encouraged to slow down with wellness rituals at The Spa, energising poolside afternoons and relaxed evenings at Patrao’s, creating space for rest, reflection and indulgence. Adding a fun twist to the celebrations, Galentine’s Day on 13th February 2026 brings together groups of women for cocktails and canapés, while singles can look forward to a social mixer later in the month.

For couples, the specially curated ‘Couples’ Edit’ package includes daily breakfast, a couple spa ritual, a poolside dinner and thoughtful inclusions designed to rekindle connection. Valentine’s Day dining experiences on 14th February range from curated buffet dinners at Ronil Bistro to intimate poolside and cabana dinners, while Galentine celebrations continue from 13th to 15th February at The Hub. With its inclusive spirit and joyful vibe, Ronil Goa positions itself as a destination where guests can truly come as they are.

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