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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 March 22, 2026
India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has issued an advisory asking airlines to avoid several airspaces in West Asia due to the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict. The move is aimed at ensuring passenger safety and strengthening contingency planning for flight operations.
As per the directive, airlines have been asked to refrain from operating in the airspace of Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). However, operations over Oman and Saudi Arabia may be allowed under certain conditions.
The DGCA noted that recent military strikes by the United States and Israel on targets in Iran, along with Iran’s retaliatory actions, have created a high-risk environment for civil aviation. These developments have raised serious concerns around the safety of flight operations in the region.
In addition to avoiding specific airspaces, airlines have also been advised not to operate below FL320 (32,000 feet) in designated parts of Saudi Arabia and Oman. The regulator has stressed the importance of detailed safety assessments and strong contingency plans, including rerouting and diversions where required.
The advisory has come into effect immediately and will remain valid until March 28, unless reviewed earlier depending on the situation. Airlines have also been instructed to avoid flying in the affected airspaces at all altitudes.
"Operations to airports in the region, where international carriers continue to fly, must be backed by comprehensive contingency planning to address all possible scenarios," the DGCA said.
Further, carriers have been asked to keep flight crew updated with the latest NOTAMs (Notice to Airmen), which provide real-time updates on airspace conditions and restrictions.
Separately, airlines have issued travel advisories for passengers flying to and from Delhi and other cities due to weather conditions. IndiGo has indicated that flights in Delhi and Bengaluru may be slightly affected due to thundershowers, while Air India has highlighted possible disruptions caused by rain and gusty winds in the national capital and parts of north India.
With this advisory, the DGCA aims to ensure that airlines remain prepared and cautious while operating in sensitive regions, keeping safety as the top priority.
Essentia Group of Hotels & Resorts has announced its entry into Sirsi, Karnataka, with the launch of Essentia Resort & Spa Sirsi. Known for its curated hospitality experiences across India, the brand brings its signature style of comfort and refined living to this peaceful destination.
This marks Essentia Hotels’ debut in the region, with the property designed as a calm retreat where modern elegance blends with the natural beauty and charm of Sirsi. Surrounded by forests and rolling hills, the location offers a quiet escape for travellers looking to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Sirsi, often called the gateway to Uttara Kannada, is known for its untouched landscapes and spiritual vibe. The town is close to attractions such as Unchalli Falls, Magod Falls, and scenic forest trails, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers, explorers, and those seeking a slower pace of life.
The Essentia Resort & Spa has been planned as a comfortable yet refined stay, featuring well-designed rooms, modern amenities, and attentive service. The property reflects the character of its surroundings while offering the convenience and comfort expected by today’s travellers. It caters to leisure guests, families, and anyone looking to take a break from city life without giving up on quality experiences.
Mr. Mohammed Parvez, CEO of Essentia Group of Hotels & Resorts, said, "Our expansion into Sirsi marks an important milestone for Essentia. We wanted to create a retreat that harmonizes seamlessly with its surroundings while offering the modern luxuries today’s travelers value. Sirsi offers a rare balance of adventure and serenity, and we look forward to welcoming guests who seek both.”
“Sirsi has a unique charm that instantly puts you at ease. This property embodies our philosophy of thoughtful hospitality, attention to detail, and creating spaces that feel both special and personal. We are proud to introduce Essentia to this beautiful destination.”
With this addition, Essentia Group aims to offer travellers a new way to experience one of Karnataka’s lesser-explored destinations. The resort is set to become a preferred choice for those looking to discover Sirsi while enjoying the brand’s signature hospitality and comfort.
By Hariharan U
After a roaring debut in Mumbai last year, BUDX NBA House is coming back to India, and this time it's heading to New Delhi. The NBA and Budweiser India have announced that the interactive fan experience will take place on 9th and 10th May at Bharat Mandapam, Exhibition Hall No. 6, running alongside the 2026 NBA Playoffs.
Last year's Mumbai edition welcomed over six thousand fans across two days. The New Delhi edition is shaping up to be even bigger, with an expanded lineup of experiences that brings together basketball, music, fashion, and culture under one roof for fans aged 16 and above.
The headliners alone make this worth clearing the calendar for. Two-time NBA champion and Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame member Isiah Thomas and four-time NBA All-Star DeMarcus Cousins will both be at the event for meet-and-greet sessions, giving Indian basketball fans a rare chance to get up close with genuine legends of the game.
Beyond the star appearances, the event packs in on-court basketball activities, live performances by international and Indian musical artists, BUDX Masterclasses featuring expert-led workshops and panel discussions for emerging artists and DJs, a 3-on-3 celebrity game, streetwear showcases, and photo opportunities with the Larry O'Brien Trophy. Sacramento Kings mascot Slamson, the Kings Dancers, and the Kings dunk team are also part of the programme, connecting the event to the franchise that played in the first-ever NBA games in India back in 2019.
Rajah Chaudhry, NBA India Country Head, shared his thoughts on bringing the event to the capital. "Hosting BUDX NBA House in New Delhi for the first time marks an exciting next step in our continued efforts to engage fans across India in new and creative ways. The response in Mumbai last year showcased the incredible passion for basketball in the country, and experiences like this are our way of celebrating that community in a meaningful way."
Vineet Sharma, Vice President of Marketing and Trade Marketing at AB InBev India, added: "After witnessing the phenomenal response to the first-ever BUDX NBA House in Mumbai, we're excited to bring an elevated and more immersive edition to fans in New Delhi. As India's No.1 premium beer brand, we have always been at the forefront of culture, shaping conversations across music, sport, and entertainment for young audiences. Sport belongs to its fans. Through platforms like BUDX NBA House, we're translating that belief into a scalable strategy, one that puts fans at the centre of the energy, creativity and culture surrounding the game."
BUDX NBA House will be produced, promoted, and ticketed by District by Zomato. Tickets are available at https://link.district.in/DSTRKT/BUDXNBAPRDel.
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