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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on February 1, 2025
The Union Budget 2025 has been presented today, The government of India has unveiled several key initiatives that will shape the future of Hospitality and Tourism industries.
One of the standout announcements is the development of the top 50 tourism sites across the country, which will be taken up in a challenge mode with the states. Hotels under this initiative will be included in the harmonized infrastructure list, providing them with necessary resources and support.
In a move to foster employment-led growth, the government plans to launch intensive skill development programs in hospitality management institutes. Along with this, Mudra Loans will be available for homestays, and Performance Linked Incentives (PLIs) will be given to states for effective destination management, including marketing efforts and the provision of tourist amenities. E-visa facilities will also be extended to certain tourist categories, streamlining the travel process for international visitors.
Additionally, medical tourism is set to receive a significant push under the “Heal in India” program. In partnership with the private sector, the government will work towards attracting international patients seeking quality and affordable medical treatment in India. This will be facilitated by improved visa norms and enhanced capacity in the healthcare sector.
The UDAAN regional connectivity scheme, which has already brought air travel closer to the middle class by enabling 1.5 crore people to travel, will see further improvements. A modified version of this scheme will be rolled out to enhance regional connectivity to 120 new destinations, aiming to carry 4 crore passengers in the next decade. The scheme will also support the development of helipads and smaller airports in hilly and underserved regions.
Further development will take place in Bihar with the facilitation of Greenfield airports to meet the growing travel demand. This will complement the ongoing expansion of Patna airport, further boosting connectivity in the state.
In another major move, the government has proposed an extension for startups, allowing a 5-year extension on the period of incorporation, with the new deadline set for 2030 and It’ll shape up the future of food and beverage industry
On the personal finance front, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a relief for taxpayers. The income tax limit for tax-free individuals will be raised from INR 7 lakh to INR 12 lakh, meaning those earning up to INR 12 lakh will not have to pay any income tax starting from the next financial year and this move will gives financial benefits to the small players of food and beverage industry
These announcements showcase the government's dedication to elevating India as a world-class tourism destination and a prominent player in the global medical tourism market, with significant efforts being made to enhance infrastructure and drive growth in these sectors.
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Published on May 3, 2026
Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) reported a strong performance in FY 2025–26, driven by steady growth in passenger traffic, better global connectivity, and consistent cargo movement. The airport handled 44.47 million passengers during the year, marking a 6.2 per cent year-on-year increase, along with 532,000 metric tonnes of cargo, which saw a 6 per cent rise.
International traffic played a major role in this growth, increasing by 23.9 per cent to reach 7.23 million passengers. Domestic traffic also saw an uptick, growing by 3.3 per cent to 37.24 million passengers. This performance reflects Bengaluru’s continued position as a leading business and innovation hub, maintaining steady progress despite global challenges.
Transfer traffic saw notable growth, rising by around 22 per cent year-on-year and contributing 15.7 per cent to the total passenger numbers. While domestic transfers grew by 3.2 per cent, international transfer traffic expanded by over 50 per cent, indicating the airport’s growing importance as a transit hub. The ‘Connections by BLR’ initiative played a key role in improving transfer experiences and strengthening airline partnerships.
The airport also expanded its global reach by adding new international destinations such as Hanoi and Riyadh. Frequencies were increased on several important routes, including London Heathrow, Bangkok, Bahrain, Jeddah, Phuket, Kuwait, Kathmandu, Munich, and Mauritius. Among the busiest international routes were Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, London Heathrow, and Kuala Lumpur. On the domestic side, major routes included Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, and Pune, along with new connections to Navi Mumbai, Jaisalmer, Bidar, Silchar, and Dimapur.
Operational activity grew in line with passenger traffic, with 280,800 air traffic movements recorded during the year, up 4.5 per cent. The airport handled an average of 769 daily movements, with a peak of 837 in a single day. Passenger traffic also reached a daily high of 139,111.
Cargo operations remained strong, supported by a network of 15 cargo airlines connecting to 38 destinations. BLR Airport continued to serve as an important link to global logistics hubs such as Chicago, Singapore, London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong. Growth was driven by demand across segments like agri-perishables, pharmaceuticals, auto components, electronics, and e-commerce.
Perishables continued to be a key contributor, with the airport maintaining its position as India’s leading gateway for perishable exports for the fifth year in a row. The handling of around 60 million rose stems, along with increased exports of mango and coriander, highlights this strength. The launch of the AISATS BLR Logistics Park further improved cargo capacity and efficiency.
With consistent growth across both passenger and cargo segments, BLR Airport is steadily strengthening its role as a major aviation and logistics hub in India, supported by better connectivity, infrastructure expansion, and a focus on future-ready operations.
Published on May 2, 2026
Narwar Lakefront Resort, a luxury lakeside retreat in Shivpuri on the Sindh River in Madhya Pradesh, has introduced its ‘Summer Refresh Package’, offering a short yet refreshing escape for couples during the warmer months.
Designed as a 3-hour evening experience, the package runs daily between 3:00 pm and 6:00 pm. It brings together relaxation, wellness, and scenic moments, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a quick summer break without planning an overnight stay. Set against the calm lakefront and close to the Madhav Tiger Reserve, the experience combines both leisure and nature.
Navneet Sharma, CEO and MD, Lion Group, said, "With rising temperatures, the need for mindful cooling escapes grows stronger. Therefore, we have created an experience for guests to slow down, recharge, and reconnect with nature in the most refreshing and cool way".
The package includes access to the resort’s swimming pool, giving guests a chance to unwind with a refreshing dip during the afternoon. The experience is complemented by cold mocktails, fresh salads, and a selection of light and healthy snacks, keeping the overall offering simple yet enjoyable.
A key highlight of the package is the Morning Safari to the Madhav Tiger Reserve and a sunset cruise boating session. Guests can take in the changing colours of the evening sky while gliding across the calm waters, creating a memorable and peaceful end to the experience.
The Summer Refresh Package reflects the rising demand for short, premium experiences that offer a mix of comfort, wellness, and scenic beauty in a limited time.
The Forum Hotel & Convention has officially opened its doors in Ahmedabad, bringing a new scale of hospitality to the city. Launched on 29th April 2026, the property features 195 well-designed rooms and suites, and is seamlessly connected to the adjoining Wyndham Ahmedabad Shela, which adds another 192 upscale rooms along with wellness, dining, and leisure facilities. Together, the combined 387 rooms and suites strengthen Gujarat’s growing capacity to host large weddings, exhibitions, and corporate gatherings.
Spread across approximately 12,00,000 sq ft, the property is built to accommodate up to 5,000 guests, making it one of the state’s larger event-focused hospitality developments. Supporting this scale is a parking facility for around 1,500 vehicles, offering ease for high-footfall events in a fast-growing city like Ahmedabad.
The property brings together strong infrastructure and service to create a complete hospitality destination. Its event spaces include over 32 modern banquet venues, highlighted by a grand pillarless ballroom spanning 40,000 sq. ft. Along with this, conference rooms, meeting spaces, and a well-equipped auditorium with advanced acoustics make it suitable for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) activities. The ability to host multiple events at the same time adds to its operational strength.
Adding to the overall experience, The Forum Hotel & Convention introduces a range of dining and entertainment concepts. These include Aurii – a premium all-day dining restaurant serving global cuisines, +33 – The French Experience offering a unique culinary concept, and Risqué – a nightclub designed for vibrant nightlife. A fourth culinary concept is also set to open soon.
Speaking on the launch, Managing Director Mr. Kalpesh Prajapati said: “At The Forum Hotel & Convention, our vision was to build a destination that reflects the ambition and growth of Gujarat. This is not just about infrastructure or scale, it is about creating a place where people come together to celebrate, connect, and create memories. We invite everyone to come, experience, and make memories at The Forum, where every moment is designed to become a meaningful experience.”
With its scale, integrated design, and strong event infrastructure, The Forum Hotel & Convention is set to play an important role in shaping Gujarat’s hospitality landscape.
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