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By Nishang Narayan
Published on February 3, 2025
The Union Budget 2025-26, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, has once again sidelined India’s inbound tourism sector and the Incredible India campaign. While the total budget allocation for the Ministry of Tourism remains nearly unchanged at INR 2,541 crore (compared to INR 2,484 crore in 2024-25), the allocation for overseas promotion and publicity, including Market Development Assistance (MDA), has dropped drastically to INR 3.07 crore.
This sharp cut follows the previous budget, which had set aside INR 33 crore for the same category, an amount that was retained in the revised estimates as well. Industry stakeholders have expressed disappointment, stating that the government’s approach is pushing the inbound tourism sector towards self-reliance rather than providing necessary support.
Instead, the government has prioritized domestic tourism promotion, allocating nearly INR 137 crore out of the total INR 140 crore earmarked for branding and promotions. This shift underscores the administration’s focus on promoting domestic travel over attracting international visitors.
The aviation industry has also witnessed a significant cut in allocations for 2024-25. A major chunk—INR 1,158.79 crore—has been assigned to AI Asset Holdings Ltd. to service loans transferred to the special purpose vehicle (SPV) as part of Air India’s financial restructuring. This marks a decrease from INR 1,144.49 crore in 2023-24, with the revised estimate standing at INR 713.92 crore.
Reacting to the budget, a prominent tour operator stated, “The government is indirectly asking the inbound tourism industry to be ‘Atma Nirbhar.’ While the budget supports hotels, homestays, and domestic tourism, there’s absolutely nothing for inbound tourism, which is a major foreign exchange earner for the country.”
Another industry expert pointed out that while Tax Collected at Source (TCS) relaxations will boost outbound travel, there are no concrete measures to support inbound tourism. “People with a PAN card can now claim tax reimbursement, making outbound travel more attractive, but there’s no stimulus for foreign tourists coming to India,” he added.
Moreover, the gap between budget estimates and revised allocations for tourism continues to widen. The initial budget estimate for 2024-25 was INR 2,485 crore, but the revised estimate dropped sharply to INR 855 crore—just 34% of the planned allocation.
While the government has introduced measures to ease e-visa processes and implement visa fee waivers for select countries, the severe cut in overseas marketing funds raises concerns about India's ability to attract global tourists. As the tourism industry recovers post-pandemic, stakeholders believe that sustained international branding and promotions are crucial to maintaining India’s competitive edge in global tourism.
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Published on May 31, 2025
Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) made a landmark move in the Emirate’s hospitality journey with the debut of the Tourism Excellence Awards, a prestigious platform honouring those transforming Ras Al Khaimah into one of the world’s fastest-growing travel destinations.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Public Services Department in Ras Al Khaimah, the inaugural ceremony took place on 21 May 2025 at the stunning Mövenpick Resort Al Marjan Island.
The awards celebrated outstanding performers across six dynamic categories:
Corporate Hospitality Excellence
Individual Innovation
Culinary Artistry
Hospitality Leadership
Community Involvement
Environmental Responsibility
This comprehensive recognition structure reflects RAKTDA’s intent to spotlight excellence at every level—be it individuals, teams, or companies.
Speaking at the event, Raki Phillips, CEO of RAKTDA, said,
“The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Excellence Awards mark an important milestone in our journey to become a leading global destination. By recognising those who go above and beyond to deliver unforgettable experiences, we are not only celebrating their achievements, but fostering a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and community engagement.”
More than just accolades, the awards align with RAKTDA’s wider mission of building a sustainable, inclusive, and culturally rich tourism ecosystem. They aim to enhance traveller confidence, elevate service standards, foster innovation, and drive collaboration between businesses, local communities, and government bodies.
Phillips added,
“These awards mark a new era of recognition and inspiration in Ras Al Khaimah’s exceptional tourism story—one driven by shared ambition, pride in local achievement, and a commitment to excellence at every touchpoint.”
For more information and interview requests, reach out to:Nidhie Raj Singh | +91 9999 266134 | nidhies@branditindia.comPriyanshi Jain | +91 8527217660 | priyanshij@branditindia.com
To explore Ras Al Khaimah’s journey and initiatives, visit www.visitrasalkhaimah.comFollow: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTubeHashtag: #VisitRasAlKhaimah
Published on May 28, 2025
The Vietnam Golf Coast is calling travellers this summer with its unique blend of lush landscapes, cultural immersion, and exclusive seasonal packages. Stretching across Central Vietnam, this renowned golf destination is offering more than just top-tier fairways—it’s inviting players to experience the soul of Vietnam through its rice paddies, highland mists, seaside breezes, and traditional flavours.
At Laguna Golf Lang Co, harvest season paints the course with shades of gold as rice paddies reach their peak through May and June. “This is one of the most enchanting times to play,” says Stephen Banks, Director of Golf, noting how the course deeply reflects Vietnam’s natural rhythms and traditions. This summer, golfers can enjoy curated offers like the Golf & Spa package, the time-friendly Golf Express deal, and the Golden Rice Flash Sales that celebrate the vibrant harvest.
Nestled in the cool highlands beyond Da Nang, Ba Na Hills Golf Club offers a completely different ambiance. Surrounded by pine trees and misty mountain air, it provides a tranquil escape from the coastal heat. “Every time I walk this course, I’m reminded why golf in the mountains feels different – calmer, clearer, and more connected,” shares General Manager Simon Mees. The summer lineup includes a Twi-Night Golf package, with weekday slots available until 2:15 PM (3:00 PM on Wednesdays) at just VND2,600,000 (USD100), complete with a refreshing beer. The Night Golf experience, starting at VND2,500,000 per player, adds local flair with craft beer and Ba Na sausage.
Closer to the coast, Montgomerie Links offers the classic charm of seaside golf, where the sea breeze dances through casuarina pines and fishing boats drift along the horizon. “Montgomerie Links captures the spirit of true links golf, but with a distinct Vietnamese character,” says Club Manager Le Vo Hoang Van. Their Stay & Play package is available until September 30, 2025, starting from just VND4,770,000, offering unbeatable value by the beach.
What sets the Vietnam Golf Coast apart is its ability to fuse sport with culture. From caddies in traditional non la hats to clubhouses serving iconic Vietnamese dishes like ca phe sua da, banh mi, pho, and bun thit nuong, every detail adds to the experience.
Off the greens, golfers are spoilt for choice. Laguna Golf Lang Co is close to the historic city of Hue, while Ba Na Hills and Montgomerie Links are a quick drive from Da Nang’s beaches, fireworks festival, and buzzing food scene. And of course, the UNESCO-listed town of Hoi An, with its lantern-lit streets and timeless charm, is always worth a visit.
For golfers seeking more than just a round, this summer on the Vietnam Golf Coast promises a sense of place, pace, and unforgettable play.
By Manu Vardhan Kannan
Published on May 21, 2025
Adventure seekers, get ready! The Dharoi Adventure Fest is all set to kick off from May 23, 2025, at the picturesque Dharoi Dam in Mehsana, Gujarat. This much-awaited event, inaugurated by Hon’ble CM Shri Bhupendra Patel, promises non-stop action and fun with a wide array of air, water, and land-based activities.
Recognised as Gujarat’s first and India’s longest adventure fest, the event will showcase an exciting mix of thrills—from parasailing and paramotoring to power boating, rock climbing, mountain biking, hiking, camping, and more. It’s a full-fledged adventure destination rolled into one unforgettable experience.
As the sun sets, the excitement continues with cultural events, stargazing, astronomy camps, and nature walks, offering a perfect blend of thrill and tranquillity.
For those looking to stay, the festival offers a range of accommodations—luxury tents to budget dorms, all with included meals and full access to the fest.
Set against the scenic backdrop of Dharoi Dam on the Sabarmati River, the location is fast emerging as Gujarat’s newest hotspot for eco-adventure tourism.
Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, the Dharoi Adventure Fest is the perfect summer getaway packed with excitement, culture, and the great outdoors.
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