As the Union Budget 2025 approaches, Vijeta Soni, Co-Founder & CEO of Sciative Solutions, shares her insights on the measures needed to foster growth in India’s travel and hospitality industry. Her expectations highlight the importance of infrastructure development, tax reforms, and sustainability-focused initiatives.

"As a SaaS company driving dynamic pricing and revenue growth for the Indian travel and hospitality industry, I am optimistic about Budget 2025 and its potential to address critical challenges while fostering growth," says Soni.

Key Budget Expectations for Travel and Hospitality

1. Enhanced Connectivity:
Soni emphasizes the need for investments in air, rail, and road infrastructure, particularly to improve access to tier-2 and tier-3 cities through the development of new airports, railway lines, and highways. Improved connectivity would unlock the tourism potential of smaller cities and foster regional economic growth.

2. GST Reforms for Hotel Rooms:
The hospitality sector is hopeful for a reduction in GST rates on hotel rooms priced above ₹7,500. Soni believes this move would make India a more competitive destination for domestic and international tourism, driving demand across the industry.

3. Standardized Regulations for Intercity Mobility:
Soni highlights the need for a national regulatory framework to replace fragmented state-specific rules governing intercity passenger mobility. Standardized regulations would promote fair competition, create a level playing field, and improve the overall travel experience.

4. Support for Electric Mobility:
With a focus on sustainability, Soni calls for subsidies, tax incentives, and infrastructure development for electric buses to facilitate the transition to greener fleets. She emphasizes that this shift would not only reduce emissions but also align the industry with global sustainability goals.

A Vision for Long-Term Growth

"These measures would not only address current challenges but also pave the way for long-term growth and sustainability in the travel and hospitality industry," Soni concludes.

As the industry awaits the Union Budget 2025, voices like Vijeta Soni’s shed light on the critical reforms and investments needed to unlock the full potential of India’s travel and hospitality sectors while championing sustainability and innovation.