Union Budget 2025: Strengthening Hospitality & Tourism with Infrastructure and Skilling Initiatives

Union Budget 2025: Strengthening Hospitality & Tourism with Infrastructure and Skilling Initiatives

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 4, 2025

The Union Budget 2025 has unveiled significant initiatives aimed at strengthening India's hospitality and tourism sector. With infrastructure status granted to hotels in 50 top tourist destinations, the government seeks to enhance financial access and investment opportunities. Additionally, the introduction of Mudra loans for homestays and a focus on skill development through National Centres of Excellence signal a promising shift toward sustainable tourism growth. Industry leaders weigh in on the impact of these measures.

Dr. Vikram Kamat, Chairman of the VITSKAMAT Group, expressed optimism about the budget’s impact on the sector. "The infrastructure status for hotels in top tourist destinations is a significant step forward, allowing easier financing and encouraging investments. The emphasis on homestays through Mudra loans empowers small entrepreneurs while providing travelers with authentic experiences. Additionally, the focus on skill development through five National Centres of Excellence ensures that India's workforce remains globally competitive. However, addressing GST input credit for hotels and structured tax benefits would further strengthen the sector’s growth."

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Dinesh Yadav, Founder and MD of Fine Acers, lauded the government’s commitment to developing the top 50 tourist sites in collaboration with state authorities. "This initiative, alongside Mudra loans for homestays, will stimulate private investments and promote regional tourism. Additionally, leveraging medical tourism and cultural attractions like those associated with Lord Buddha's history will diversify India's tourism offerings. Improved infrastructure will encourage long-term investments in hotels, resorts, and allied services, making this an opportune period for hospitality sector expansion."

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Pranav Rungta, Co-founder and Director of Nksha restaurant and Vice President of NRAI Mumbai, welcomed the tax relief measures but highlighted the restaurant sector's ongoing challenges. "The government's move to reduce income tax outlay, leading to Rs 1 lakh crore in citizens’ savings, is expected to boost discretionary spending. This could elevate our sector’s projected growth rate from 8.3% to 10-12%. While infrastructure status for hotels is a positive step, the restaurant industry’s long-standing demand for industry status remains unmet. Additionally, the lack of recognition as a labor-intensive sector and the continued challenge of GST input credit remain major concerns for our growth. The budget presents a mixed outlook for the restaurant sector, with some positive steps but crucial gaps left unaddressed."

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With these developments, the hospitality industry anticipates accelerated growth and increased investment, though further policy refinements could unlock even greater potential for the sector.


Hansgrohe India Introduces LavaPura Element S, Redefining Smart Bathrooms

Hansgrohe India Introduces LavaPura Element S, Redefining Smart Bathrooms

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 15, 2025

Hansgrohe India, the premium German brand known for redefining bathroom and kitchen experiences, has launched its newest innovation for the Indian market — the LavaPura Element S series of e-toilets. This new addition promises to deliver luxury, hygiene, and smart functionality tailored for both modern homes and upscale hospitality environments.

Crafted with Indian users in mind, the LavaPura Element S series blends intuitive features with seamless installation and enduring performance. It aims to make smart bathrooms an essential, not aspirational, part of daily living.

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“Smart bathrooms are no longer aspirational; they’re becoming essential in modern homes and hotels,” said Abhijeet Sonar, Head of Marketing, India and SAARC Region, Hansgrohe. “The LavaPura Element S series delivers just that - a lifestyle upgrade that combines advanced hygiene features with minimalist, user-friendly design.”

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Key Features of LavaPura Element S:

 eSanitize Ion Sterilisation: Uses electrolysed water to clean and sterilise internal surfaces with up to 99% effectiveness, offering a natural and gentle hygiene solution.

UV Sterilisation: Ensures nozzle cleanliness after every use using antibacterial materials and UV reinforcement. 

Hygiene Effect Pure Shield Technology: Enhances safety with antibacterial materials for ceramic surfaces.

OdorFresh Odour Neutralisation: Neutralises odours with a water-based system that avoids consumables.

AquaHelix 360° Vortex Flush: Delivers quiet yet powerful flushing, even during power outages.

AquaWash Multi Comfort Wash: Offers several personalised wash modes, including feminine, bidet, massage, and moving wash options.

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The toilet also comes equipped with premium touches such as a waterproof IPX4 remote, status breathing light, automatic flushing and lid control, multi-level seat heating, and a SmartClean glazed surface for easy maintenance.

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In a world where hygiene and automation are key, LavaPura Element S sets a new benchmark in modern bathroom innovation. Now available across Hansgrohe’s wide dealer and showroom network in India, the series reflects the brand’s commitment to smart, sustainable, and elegant living.

hansgrohe continues to stand at the forefront of bathroom technology, delivering eco-friendly, intelligent, and beautifully designed solutions that enhance daily life.


Vegas Mall Hosts ‘Run For Her’ Marathon to Celebrate Mother’s Day

Vegas Mall Hosts ‘Run For Her’ Marathon to Celebrate Mother’s Day

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 15, 2025

Vegas Mall, Dwarka, turned into a vibrant hub of celebration as it hosted the ‘Run For Her’ Marathon in honour of Mother’s Day 2025. With more than 600 participants joining in, the event showcased a powerful blend of fitness, family bonding, and community spirit.

From seasoned runners to enthusiastic families, people of all age groups came together for a meaningful cause. The marathon featured multiple categories including a 10K Run, 5K Run, 5K Walk, and a 1 Mile Kids Run, making it a truly inclusive and spirited event.

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Adding a special touch to the occasion was Padma Jaiswal, IAS officer, who graced the event as the chief guest. Her presence underlined the day’s message of empowering women and recognising mothers as pillars of strength.

Commenting on the success of the event, Ravinder Choudhary, Vice President, Vegas Mall, shared, “At Vegas Mall, we believe in celebrating every facet of life. ‘Run For Her’ was not just a run; it was a tribute to the dedication and love of mothers everywhere. We are thrilled to have hosted such an empowering event that brought families together and promoted wellness.”

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After the run, the energy continued with music, entertainment, and interactive activities, creating a festive and memorable atmosphere. Participants were awarded medals and certificates, commemorating their effort and spirit.

With heartfelt moments, enthusiastic participation, and a focus on health and unity, the ‘Run For Her’ Marathon left an unforgettable mark on Mother’s Day celebrations in Dwarka.


MONIN India Announces Coffee Creativity Cup 2025 Theme: Alchemy of Flavors

MONIN India Announces Coffee Creativity Cup 2025 Theme: Alchemy of Flavors

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on May 14, 2025

MONIN India has officially revealed the theme for the much-awaited MONIN Coffee Creativity Cup (MCCC) 2025 — "Alchemy of Flavors: A Fusion of MONIN & Exquisite Coffee." This exciting edition aims to inspire baristas and beverage professionals to explore bold new combinations using MONIN’s world-class syrups with expertly brewed coffee.

This year's competition is set to be a true celebration of craftsmanship, innovation, and community. Participants will showcase their espresso-based mocktails across three regional rounds held in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, with winners advancing to a grand national finale in Jaipur.

The champion from the India finale will go on to represent the country at the MONIN Coffee Creativity Cup Asia Finals in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, scheduled for September 2025. There, they'll compete against top baristas from across the APAC region.

The theme "Alchemy of Flavors" calls on participants to mix tradition with creativity, combining MONIN’s versatile flavors with the art of coffee brewing. It highlights the growing desire for unique, elevated coffee experiences in India and strengthens MONIN’s commitment to supporting baristas with platforms that celebrate imagination and skill.

More than just a competition, the MCCC has evolved into a creative journey. It empowers professionals to challenge the norm, tell their stories through beverages, and set new benchmarks in India’s modern coffee scene.

Mr. Germain Araud, Managing Director of MONIN India Pvt. Ltd., expressed his excitement, saying, “We're proud to return with the MONIN Coffee Creativity Cup this year. This initiative is designed to offer a meaningful springboard for emerging talent, providing visibility and access to a wider, even global stage. It reflects MONIN's deep-rooted commitment to giving back to the community that inspires us every day. As MONIN continues to grow within the coffee industry, this competition offers us a valuable opportunity to discover the passion and innovation that professionals bring to their craft.”

At every stage, regional and national - winners can look forward to exciting prizes, with the national winner receiving an exclusive global coffee experience that includes an international farm visit.

As a brand that has been pioneering beverage innovation since 1912, MONIN continues to invest in India's growing coffee culture. MCCC 2025 is a vibrant expression of this vision, bringing together flavor, talent, and creative energy in a celebration of coffee like no other.

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