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By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on August 22, 2025
India is preparing to implement its most significant tax reform since the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in 2017, with a key panel of ministers approving a shift to a simplified two-slab system. The new structure will feature two primary rates of 5% and 18%, with a special 40% levy on sin and luxury goods, scrapping the existing 12% and 28% brackets. The GST Council is expected to meet in early September to fast-track implementation. The reform comes against the backdrop of rising trade tensions with the United States, where steep tariffs have been imposed on Indian goods. During Independence day celebrations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced sweeping tax reforms to support the economy and now this move confirmed that India will reduce GST rates to stimulate consumption and growth. Almost 99% of items currently in the 12% bracket, including butter, fruit juices, and dry fruits, will be moved to the 5% category, a move that will directly benefit consumers as well as FMCG giants such as Nestle, Hindustan Unilever, and Procter & Gamble. However, this simplification could result in a revenue loss of nearly ₹500 billion, equivalent to 0.15% of GDP, sparking concern among states over potential fiscal shortfalls. The Department of Revenue is currently assessing the full impact before final approval.
For the hospitality sector, which has long grappled with a complex GST regime, the overhaul will provide major relief. Hotel stays below ₹7,500 per night will see GST reduced from 12% to 5%, making mid-range and budget accommodations significantly cheaper for travelers. Restaurant services in such hotels will also attract only 5% GST without input tax credit, while hotels that wish to claim credit may continue with the 18% rate. Complimentary breakfasts, packaged food, toiletries, and other daily essentials supplied by hotels will be taxed at 5%, further reducing costs. The simplification of slabs is also expected to make billing easier and reduce confusion for both hotels and guests. Luxury hotels charging above ₹7,500 per night will remain in the 18% bracket, keeping high-end stays unchanged in price, while alcohol, tobacco, and luxury add-ons offered through hotels will shift from 28% to 40%, becoming significantly costlier.
Economists note that the new GST framework could provide households with a stimulus equivalent to 0.6–0.7% of GDP, driven by lower taxation on essentials and services. For the hospitality industry, the changes are likely to boost domestic tourism, increase occupancy in budget and mid-tier hotels, and make restaurant dining in affordable hotels cheaper, while high-end travelers see little relief. At a broader level, the reform reflects India’s push to stimulate demand, simplify compliance, and strengthen domestic consumption while managing revenue risks for states. In doing so, GST 2.0 promises to be a transformative step for both the economy and the hospitality industry, balancing affordability for consumers with the government’s long-term goal of sustainable growth.
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Published on August 6, 2026
The Sleep Company has announced the opening of its new experience store at Vihang Ventura in Mira Road, further expanding its retail footprint in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Located within the upcoming premium commercial development by Vihang Ahead, the new outlet adds to the growing presence of national brands at the project.
The comfort-tech brand, known for its patented SmartGRID® technology, has grown rapidly across India with more than 200 stores in less than four years. Its latest store at Vihang Ventura is part of the company's strategy to expand into fast-growing suburban markets where demand for premium lifestyle and comfort products continues to rise.
Situated opposite Kashigaon Metro Station, Vihang Ventura is being developed as an integrated commercial destination featuring premium retail outlets, flagship showrooms, office spaces, and lifestyle brands. The project is attracting leading national retailers looking to tap into the growing consumer base of the Mira Bhayandar region.
The new experience store offers customers an opportunity to explore and try The Sleep Company's complete range of SmartGRID mattresses, ergonomic chairs, recliners, sofas, and sleep accessories before making their purchase decisions.
Commenting on the development, Purvesh Sarnaik, Director, Vihang Ahead, said:
"The Sleep Company's decision to establish its presence at Vihang Ventura is another strong endorsement of Mira Bhayandar's emergence as a premium retail destination. As consumer aspirations evolve and the region continues to attract high-quality residential and commercial developments, national brands are increasingly recognising the market's long-term potential. Our vision for Vihang Ventura is to create a vibrant commercial ecosystem that brings together leading retail, lifestyle and business brands in one landmark destination."
Speaking about the expansion, Sharad Shukla, Senior Director-Retail Expansion, The Sleep Company, said:
"Our retail expansion strategy is centred around markets that are witnessing strong residential growth, improving infrastructure and a rising base of aspirational consumers. Mira Bhayandar has evolved into one of the fastest-growing suburban markets within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, making it an ideal destination for our next experience store. Vihang Ventura offers the right ecosystem for us to engage with customers seeking innovative comfort solutions and a premium in-store shopping experience."
The launch comes at a time when India's organised retail sector continues to see steady growth, supported by strong retail leasing activity and increasing expansion into emerging suburban markets. Improved infrastructure, Metro connectivity, and sustained residential development have also made Mira Bhayandar an attractive destination for organised retail and lifestyle brands.
With The Sleep Company joining its retail mix, Vihang Ventura continues to strengthen its positioning as a modern commercial and lifestyle destination, bringing together brands across lifestyle, wellness, food & beverage, and retail while offering consumers premium shopping experiences closer to home.
Published on August 5, 2026
Air India Flight AI2379, operating from Phuket to Delhi, encountered severe turbulence during its journey on Tuesday, leaving 17 people injured, including 13 passengers and four cabin crew members. Despite the incident, the aircraft landed safely at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, where medical teams were immediately deployed to assist those onboard.
The flight, operated by an Airbus A320 (VT-EXO), was carrying 137 passengers, including three infants, along with eight crew members comprising two pilots and six cabin crew.
According to Air India, the aircraft experienced a momentary change in altitude during the cruise phase before stabilising and continuing its journey safely to Delhi. Flight tracking platform Flightradar24 indicated that the aircraft descended by approximately 300 feet around 2.5 hours into the flight, while flying over Odisha.
Following the landing, medical teams attended to all passengers and crew as a precaution. Eight passengers and four cabin crew members were admitted to hospitals for detailed medical evaluation and treatment. Air India stated that all those admitted are stable and are receiving appropriate medical care, while the remaining passengers were provided with the necessary assistance and support.
The Minister of Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, personally visited the injured passengers at Fortis and Medanta Hospitals to enquire about their condition and assure them of the government's full support. Senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation also visited the hospitals and are coordinating closely with the airline and hospital authorities to ensure the injured receive the best possible medical care.
The aircraft has since been moved to the hangar, where the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) have been secured for detailed examination.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the incident. The Ministry of Civil Aviation and DGCA said they are closely monitoring the situation, reiterating that passenger safety remains the highest priority and that all necessary measures are being taken.
Published on August 3, 2026
SPS Realty has announced that Bikanervala, one of India's most recognised food and sweets brands, will open a new outlet at its flagship commercial development, Helios, located on VIP Road in Zirakpur. The addition is set to strengthen the project's retail and food & beverage ecosystem while enhancing its appeal as a lifestyle destination.
The upcoming outlet will offer Bikanervala's wide range of traditional Indian sweets, snacks, and dining options, catering to residents, businesses, and visitors from Zirakpur and nearby areas. The brand's presence is expected to serve as a key food and beverage anchor within the commercial development.
Commenting on the association, Rohit Singla, Director, SPS Realty, said, "The addition of Bikanervala at Helios reflects our vision of creating a well-rounded commercial destination that brings together premium retail, food, and lifestyle experiences. We aim to curate a diverse ecosystem where businesses can thrive while offering visitors a complete experience under one roof."
Helios has been designed as SPS Realty's flagship commercial project, featuring contemporary architecture, premium commercial spaces, and a strategic location on VIP Road. The development comprises 177 premium retail and showroom spaces, offering high-visibility opportunities for established brands, entrepreneurs, and businesses.
The arrival of Bikanervala is expected to further strengthen Helios' growing tenant mix while enhancing customer engagement by adding a well-established food and beverage destination. With increasing urbanisation and rising demand for organised retail spaces in the region, the project is positioned to emerge as a preferred commercial hub in Zirakpur.
Through this partnership, SPS Realty continues its focus on developing commercial destinations that combine retail, dining, and lifestyle experiences while creating new opportunities for businesses and consumers alike.
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