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By Nishang Narayan
Published on July 25, 2024
The Union Budget 2024-25, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, has set the stage for transformative growth in India's hospitality sector. With a forward-looking approach, the budget aims to enhance infrastructure, boost tourism, and create significant employment opportunities, thus setting the course for a hospitality boom.
One of the most notable measures is the allocation of ₹1.48 lakh crore towards education, employment, and skilling, which includes training 20 lakh youth and upgrading 1,000 institutes. This investment in human capital is poised to address the industry's growing demand for skilled workers, enhancing service quality and customer experience across the sector.
In addition, the revised income tax regime and the abolishment of the Angel Tax are expected to ease financial burdens on businesses, encouraging investments and stimulating economic activity within the industry.
Infrastructure and Connectivity: A New Dawn for Hospitality
The budget's commitment to converting 40,000 rail bogies to Vande Bharat coaches and expanding key rail corridors will significantly enhance connectivity, making travel more convenient and accessible. Furthermore, the development of prominent cultural and spiritual sites such as the Vishnupad temple at Gaya, Mahabodhi temple in Bodhgaya, the Kashi Vishwanath corridor, the Brahmkunda of Rajgir, and Nalanda is set to attract a large influx of tourists.
Industry Leaders React
Snehdeep Aggarwal, Founder-Chairman, Bhartiya Group, expressed optimism, stating, "Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's announcement in the Union Budget 2024 is a visionary step towards transforming India's travel and hospitality sector. The comprehensive development plan promises to create a robust framework for economic growth by enhancing iconic destinations and promoting spiritual, cultural, and natural attractions. These strategic investments will not only boost tourism but also stimulate job creation and attract significant investments. This initiative is a significant stride towards making India a premier global travel destination." Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India, highlighted the budget's impact on travel and tourism, saying, "Enhancing infrastructure around significant temples, pilgrimage sites, and scenic beach destinations will not only elevate the overall tourist experience but also position India as a premier global destination for spiritual and cultural journeys. These initiatives are expected to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and attract substantial investments across various sectors. Improving infrastructure is especially crucial, as it will enhance connectivity, accessibility, and the quality of services, ensuring that visitors have a seamless and enriching experience. Furthermore, the Union Budget 2024-25 has introduced transformative measures for the cruise tourism sector, notably the streamlined tax regime for foreign cruise operators. This will facilitate smoother operations of domestic cruise vessels and significantly bolster our cruise tourism infrastructure. With a remarkable increase in cruise calls and passenger numbers over the past decade, this new policy aims to accelerate our growth trajectory." Ambika Saxena, CEO, TWH Hospitality, emphasized the budget's focus on regional connectivity, stating, "The Union Budget 2024 has brought regional connectivity to centre stage. The strategic investment in the building of new expressways, airports, and rail corridors is going to revolutionize the scene of tourism. These developments will foster easier and quicker travel, promoting domestic and international tourism. They will bring life to the local economies by creating new employment opportunities and promoting active cultural exchange. Such new infrastructure developments are bound to entice more visitors to visit India's diversified destinations--from vibrant urban centers to serene natural landscapes--ensuring that growth and prosperity for the tourist sector continue sustainably."
Snehdeep Aggarwal, Founder-Chairman, Bhartiya Group, expressed optimism, stating, "Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's announcement in the Union Budget 2024 is a visionary step towards transforming India's travel and hospitality sector. The comprehensive development plan promises to create a robust framework for economic growth by enhancing iconic destinations and promoting spiritual, cultural, and natural attractions. These strategic investments will not only boost tourism but also stimulate job creation and attract significant investments. This initiative is a significant stride towards making India a premier global travel destination."
Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets in India, highlighted the budget's impact on travel and tourism, saying, "Enhancing infrastructure around significant temples, pilgrimage sites, and scenic beach destinations will not only elevate the overall tourist experience but also position India as a premier global destination for spiritual and cultural journeys. These initiatives are expected to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and attract substantial investments across various sectors. Improving infrastructure is especially crucial, as it will enhance connectivity, accessibility, and the quality of services, ensuring that visitors have a seamless and enriching experience. Furthermore, the Union Budget 2024-25 has introduced transformative measures for the cruise tourism sector, notably the streamlined tax regime for foreign cruise operators. This will facilitate smoother operations of domestic cruise vessels and significantly bolster our cruise tourism infrastructure. With a remarkable increase in cruise calls and passenger numbers over the past decade, this new policy aims to accelerate our growth trajectory."
Ambika Saxena, CEO, TWH Hospitality, emphasized the budget's focus on regional connectivity, stating, "The Union Budget 2024 has brought regional connectivity to centre stage. The strategic investment in the building of new expressways, airports, and rail corridors is going to revolutionize the scene of tourism. These developments will foster easier and quicker travel, promoting domestic and international tourism. They will bring life to the local economies by creating new employment opportunities and promoting active cultural exchange. Such new infrastructure developments are bound to entice more visitors to visit India's diversified destinations--from vibrant urban centers to serene natural landscapes--ensuring that growth and prosperity for the tourist sector continue sustainably."
The Union Budget 2024-25 focuses on youth skilling, tax reforms, and infrastructure development, laying a strong foundation for significant growth in India's hospitality sector. By addressing key challenges and fostering a supportive environment, the budget aims to elevate India's hospitality industry to new heights, positioning it as a global leader in travel and tourism.
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Published on June 20, 2025
Cygnett Hotels & Resorts, one of India's fastest-growing hospitality chains, has announced its latest expansion in Uttar Pradesh with the signing of Cozzet Kanpur and Cygnett Inn Vrindavan. These strategic additions strengthen the group’s presence in key Tier-II and religious tourism markets, aligning with its larger goal of establishing a 100-hotel portfolio across India.
Cozzet Kanpur, a brownfield project, is scheduled to open by the end of 2025. The hotel will offer 40 well-appointed rooms, two banquet halls with a combined capacity of up to 10,000 guests, a 60-cover all-day dining restaurant, and a lounge bar—making it an ideal venue for weddings, MICE events, and business stays in the industrial capital of North India.
Cygnett Inn Vrindavan is expected to welcome guests by early 2027. Designed for both business and leisure travellers, the property will feature 60 rooms, an 80-cover restaurant, a rooftop swimming pool, a gym, and banquet facilities accommodating 600–800 guests. With this signing, Cygnett’s total inventory in Vrindavan will rise to 100 rooms, following the earlier addition of Cozzet Vrindavan.
“Uttar Pradesh is a critical market in our strategy as we work toward building a 100-hotel network. We plan to launch 10–12 properties across the state in the next 2–3 years,” said Sarbendra Sarkar, Founder & Managing Director, Cygnett Hotels & Resorts.
Both properties will be located near prominent tourist and cultural attractions—Kanpur, known for its industrial strength and historic landmarks, and Vrindavan, the divine city in Braj Bhoomi, renowned for its association with Lord Krishna.
This growth complements Cygnett’s expanding portfolio, which already includes a presence in Ayodhya, further anchoring its position in both spiritual and commercial travel destinations.
Cozzet represents the brand’s smart, value-driven segment, designed for savvy modern travellers, while Cygnett Inn offers full-service comfort and reliability with a midscale focus—each promising warm hospitality and Cygnetture service.
For more information, visit: www.cygnetthotels.com
In a celebration of luxury hospitality and creative collaboration, Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection hosted a sophisticated cocktail dinner on June 18 at Dear Donna, New Delhi, bringing together India’s leading wedding planners and select media from premier wedding publications.
Set in a graceful white and gold theme, the evening offered an intimate environment to explore the world of destination weddings in Dubai, as envisioned by the Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection, comprising Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, V Hotel Dubai – Curio Collection by Hilton, and Al Habtoor Palace.
More than just opulent accommodations, the collection showcased its wide-ranging offerings for weddings—from breathtaking banquets and tailored hospitality to curated entertainment experiences like La Perle, Dubai’s spectacular live show. Attendees had the opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and explore collaboration opportunities with the Dubai-based team.
Jihane Chakhrouf, Complex Director of Groups, Catering, and Events, remarked,
“India remains a vital market for our destination weddings. This evening strengthened our bonds with the top minds in the Indian wedding industry. We look forward to co-creating unforgettable wedding experiences that seamlessly combine our world-class hotels with Dubai's vibrant lifestyle offerings.”
Carolina Campita, Complex Assistant Director of Marketing, added,
“The Indian wedding planning community is celebrated globally for their unparalleled creativity. Bringing them together allowed us to highlight the essence of Al Habtoor City Hotel Collection and showcase Dubai's exceptional entertainment options. From relaxing spa retreats to spectacular entertainment, our aim is to deliver luxury and enjoyment not only for the bride and groom but for all guests.”
This exclusive evening not only spotlighted the collection’s luxurious venues but also emphasized its deep commitment to the Indian wedding market—positioning Al Habtoor City as a premier destination for bespoke weddings that fuse culinary richness, captivating entertainment, and curated lifestyle experiences.
By Author
Published on June 19, 2025
In an era where corporate responsibility and environmental consciousness are more than just buzzwords, Marriott India has taken a bold step forward—transforming words into meaningful, measurable action. On the occasion of World Environment Day 2025, Marriott India proudly announced the achievement of a monumental milestone: 100,000 trees planted across the country.
With a growing portfolio of 150+ hotels, this initiative was more than a one-day campaign—it was a unifying mission. Rooted in the vision of long-term ecological sustainability and inspired by the success of last year’s “Two Trees per Room” program, Marriott India’s latest green stride stands as a compelling testament to how the hospitality industry can be a powerful agent of change.
Last year’s initiative laid the groundwork. With over 32,600 trees planted by 4,900 passionate volunteers, the “Two Trees per Room” drive showed Marriott’s deep-rooted commitment to sustainability. Building on that solid foundation, 2025 witnessed the idea blossom into a national green movement—one that reflects Marriott’s belief that environmental responsibility must be woven into the very fabric of hospitality.
This year, each Marriott hotel in India took ownership of localized tree-planting drives in collaboration with reputable reforestation partners and community leaders. These weren’t symbolic gestures. Trees were planted strategically to revive ecosystems, restore biodiversity, and combat climate change, while also generating employment and awareness at the grassroots level.
“This isn’t just about trees—it’s about legacy,” said a Marriott India spokesperson. “By planting 100,000 trees, we are not only giving back to nature but also nurturing future generations. This initiative is a reflection of our values—of growing responsibly, sustainably, and inclusively.”
Each property embraced the mission with unique fervor. In Bengaluru, for instance, Aloft Bengaluru Whitefield joined the movement with commendable zeal. Under the leadership of General Manager Mr. Hafizullah Baig, 24 spirited volunteers came together to plant 300 trees, reinforcing the belief that local action can lead to national transformation.
“We are proud to be part of a company that not only talks about sustainability but lives it,” Baig shared. “Every sapling we planted today is a promise—for cleaner air, cooler cities, and a healthier planet.”
While the 100,000-tree milestone is momentous, it is far from the finish line for Marriott India. The brand continues to champion a 360-degree approach to sustainability, with initiatives spanning:
Energy-efficient operations using smart automation and green building standards
Waste management systems that reduce, recycle, and repurpose
Responsible sourcing of food and materials that support ethical and eco-conscious suppliers
Local community engagement programs that uplift while educating
Through these collective efforts, Marriott India is not just participating in change—it’s leading it.
Marriott India’s environmental journey is redefining what it means to be a responsible hospitality brand in the 21st century. At a time when climate anxiety is real and urgent, the company’s green vision offers hope, direction, and impact. It’s a reminder that the hospitality sector—so often associated with comfort, luxury, and indulgence—can also be a steward of conservation, compassion, and consciousness.
As the sun set on World Environment Day 2025, tens of thousands of trees stood tall across India—silent sentinels of Marriott’s pledge to protect the planet. A commitment rooted in soil, nourished by intent, and destined to flourish for generations to come.
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