Key Budget 2025 Announcements for the Tourism and Hospitality Industry

Key Budget 2025 Announcements for the Tourism and Hospitality Industry

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.


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.

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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.

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