Industry Leaders Share Expectations Ahead of Union Budget 2026

Industry Leaders Share Expectations Ahead of Union Budget 2026

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 30, 2026

With the Union Budget 2026 set to be presented in the first week of February, expectations are building across the hospitality, tourism, and food services sectors. Industry leaders are looking to the upcoming budget for measures that can strengthen travel infrastructure, support sustainable tourism, ease operational pressures, and recognise the sector’s role in employment generation.

Sharing her views, Shruti Shibulal, Executive Vice Chair of the Board of Directors at Tamara Leisure Experiences, highlighted the opportunity for the budget to further strengthen India’s travel and tourism ecosystem. She said, "The approaching Union Budget has a strong opportunity to further strengthen India's travel and tourism ecosystem through focused interventions that promote ease of access, visibility and local employment."

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She emphasised the need to identify and promote new destinations, particularly across North India and the North East, to attract new traveller segments and ensure balanced regional growth. Improved connectivity under the UDAN scheme, she noted, could also help ease pressure on overcrowded destinations by redirecting tourist flows. On sustainable tourism, she pointed to India’s potential in nature-centric travel and suggested that a calibrated relaxation of wildlife sanctuary guidelines, while maintaining strict conservation norms, could support future-ready tourism development.

Shruti Shibulal also underscored the importance of simplifying visas for health and wellness tourism, extending the PRASAD scheme to more destinations with timely execution, and giving a focused policy push to cruise tourism along India’s coastline to enhance global competitiveness. Stressing safety and ease of travel, she called for a dedicated focus on tourism police under police modernisation schemes. She further added that support for rural cooperatives, along with sustained investment in skill development and local employment generation, especially in rural and emerging destinations, would help create participative tourism models that benefit local communities.

From the food services perspective, Pranav Rungta, Cofounder and Director of Nksha Restaurant and Vice President of NRAI Mumbai, spoke about the financial pressures facing the sector. He said, "The hospitality and food services sector is at a critical inflection point. Revisiting the GST notification on commercial leases under the Reverse Charge Mechanism would provide much-needed relief to operators already managing tight cash flows."

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He also highlighted the need to reintroduce support mechanisms such as SEIS to strengthen restaurants that contribute to foreign exchange earnings. According to him, the sector requires targeted subsidies, easier access to debt for SMEs, and formal industry status, given its significant contribution to employment. He further added that a dedicated food services ministry, along with structured employee welfare initiatives, would play a key role in building a more resilient and sustainable hospitality ecosystem.

As the industry awaits the Union Budget 2026, these expectations reflect a broader call for policy clarity, financial relief, and long-term structural support to help hospitality and allied sectors continue their growth momentum.


ITC Hotels Expands Storii Portfolio with Jawai Retreat

ITC Hotels Expands Storii Portfolio with Jawai Retreat

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 6, 2026

ITC Hotels Limited has announced the opening of Storii Jawai in Rajasthan, adding the 11th property to its Storii portfolio. The boutique retreat is designed as a nature-led destination, reflecting the growing interest in experiential and eco-sensitive travel across India.

Located in the Jawai region, the property is surrounded by landscapes known for leopard sightings, granite hills, and the Jawai River ecosystem. The area is also home to a variety of flora and fauna, including migratory birds, making it a unique destination for travellers looking to connect with nature and wildlife.

Developed in partnership with 1st Gate Luxe Pvt. Ltd., the property highlights ITC Hotels’ focus on expanding through collaborations while building immersive travel experiences.

The retreat features 15 keys, designed to blend safari-style elements with modern comfort. Guests are welcomed through a tented reception that leads to a colonial-style bungalow serving as the central lounge and bar. The accommodation is spread across villas set within a preserved natural setting, with features such as private courtyards, plunge pools, and tented structures. The design ensures minimal impact on the environment while offering a stay that reflects the region’s character.

Facilities include an infinity pool set on a hillock overlooking a natural lake, along with spaces for wellness and outdoor activities. The experience is further enhanced with wildlife exploration programmes and curated dining, catering to travellers seeking more meaningful and destination-led stays.

Commenting on the launch, Anil Chadha, Managing Director, ITC Hotels Limited, said, “We are delighted to open the 11th Storii in Jawai. An intimate 15 key boutique retreat that distils the essence of quiet comforts in the wild, Jawai stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of modern innovation and timeless tradition. Storii Jawai is our tribute to the beauty and resilience of this region”.

Bharat Kumar Singh, Promoter, 1st Gate Luxe Pvt. Ltd., added, “As people from the soil, Storii Jawai reflects our belief in Rajasthani culture and traditions. It has been a humbling experience for us to be able to build a space for fellow travellers to come and immerse in our hinterland. We are grateful to associate with ITC Hotels Limited who reflect our values and vision, and have been with us shoulder to shoulder to make it happen”.

The launch also reflects rising demand for destinations that combine ecological sensitivity with cultural depth, especially in regions like Jawai that are closely connected to local communities such as the Rabari community.


Indian Hotels Company Limited Unveils Eternity Kanpur Under SeleQtions Brand

Indian Hotels Company Limited Unveils Eternity Kanpur Under SeleQtions Brand

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 5, 2026

Indian Hotels Company Limited has unveiled Eternity, Kanpur – IHCL SeleQtions, marking the debut of the SeleQtions brand in Kanpur, one of Uttar Pradesh’s key commercial and industrial centres.

Highlighting the significance of the launch, Ms. Deepika Rao, Executive Vice President – New Businesses & Hotel Openings, IHCL, said, “Kanpur, a vital commercial and industrial centre is witnessing rapid growth with its evolving infrastructure and increasing connectivity. The opening of Eternity, Kanpur, IHCL SeleQtions addresses the growing demand from corporate, MICE and social segments.”

Strategically located on NH-91, away from the city’s bustle, the hotel features 104 neo-classical rooms offering views of the cityscape. The property is designed to cater to both business and leisure travellers with a mix of comfort, connectivity, and modern amenities.

Dining options include Célesté, an all-day dining restaurant; Thea, a bar serving European-inspired cocktails along with an exclusive cigar lounge; and Aurumn the Lounge. Guests can also enjoy wellness facilities such as a spa, swimming pool, and a fully equipped gym.

For events and gatherings, the hotel offers expansive banquet and meeting spaces. The largest banquet hall spans over 11,000 sq. ft., making it suitable for conferences, conventions, and social celebrations.

Mr. Jalpreet Sodhi, General Manager, Eternity, Kanpur – IHCL SeleQtions, said, “We look forward to welcoming guests to Eternity - IHCL SeleQtions and offering a memorable experience in the culturally rich city of Kanpur.”

Located along the banks of the Ganga, Kanpur is known for its strong industrial legacy in leather, textiles, and manufacturing, making it an important commercial hub in North India. With this launch, IHCL continues to strengthen its presence in growing urban markets across the country.


Long Weekend Retreats to Reset After the Year-End Rush

Long Weekend Retreats to Reset After the Year-End Rush

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 5, 2026

After weeks of deadlines, financial closures, and the usual rush that comes with March, the Good Friday long weekend arrives at just the right time. Sitting right at the end of the financial year, it offers a chance to step away from routine, take a breather, and begin April with a clearer mind. Whether it’s the calm of a coffee estate, the stillness of backwaters, or the fresh air of the mountains, a short getaway can make all the difference.

At Evolve Back Coorg, the surroundings naturally slow things down. Set amid coffee plantations and rainforest landscapes, the experience here is all about quiet moments. Mornings begin with misty walks, followed by relaxed breakfasts, spa time, and peaceful hours by a private pool, making it easy to switch off from work mode.

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For those who prefer a deeper disconnect, The Tamara Coorg offers forest-lined cottages and sweeping hill views. The calm setting encourages slower mornings and evenings without screens, allowing travellers to gently ease out of the stress of work and return feeling lighter.

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If a slower pace by the water sounds more appealing, Coconut Lagoon provides a refreshing change. Surrounded by the backwaters of Kumarakom, the experience is simple and unhurried, with boat rides, sunset views, and traditional wellness therapies creating a sense of balance without the need for a packed schedule.

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For a more complete wellness reset, Ananda in the Himalayas stands out as a destination focused on mental and physical well-being. With meditation, personalised wellness programmes, and the calming influence of the mountains, even a short stay here helps restore focus and energy.

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Similarly, Six Senses Vana offers a more guided approach to relaxation. Instead of a typical holiday, it focuses on mindful routines and holistic wellness, helping guests return feeling calmer, more balanced, and ready for the weeks ahead.

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Not every break needs to be long to make an impact. Sometimes, a few days in the right environment is enough to reset both mind and body. With peaceful surroundings and thoughtful hospitality, these retreats offer a simple yet meaningful way to step into April with renewed energy.

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