The year 2020 had been an extremely turbulent year for the tourism industry. The entire industry had come to a standstill during the initial few months of the lockdown. The hard-hit industry was looking up to the budget to support them, but the budget did not live up to the industry’s expectations. The 2021 budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1 has been slashed by 19% for the tourism industry.
The Budget For Tourism Sector Slashed By 19%
The budgetary allocation has been slashed from ₹ 2,500 crores in 2020-21 to ₹ 2026.77 crores this year for the tourism sector. This came as a massive blow to the industry which is already seeing loses due to the pandemic. The budget has allocated ₹ 1088.03 crores for development of tourism infrastructure.
The Ministry Is Pushing Funds Towards Promoting Destinations
The pandemic has inhibited the foreign tourist footfalls into the country and kept domestic travellers at bay. The ministry is pushing funds for promoting tourist destinations and attracting travellers. Out of the ₹ 668.72 crores allocated towards publicity, ₹ 524.02 crore is for the international market and ₹ 144.70 crores is for domestic tourists.
Goa Recieves ₹300 Crores For Diamond Jubilee Celebrations
On the other hand, the centre gives Goa ₹300 crores to mark 60 years of liberation. Goa is in its diamond jubilee year of independence from Portuguese rule. The Finance Minister announced the grant for Goa. Goa To Celebrate 60 Years Of Liberation From Portuguese With Year-Long Celebrations. Goa’s economy depends on tourism, and the centre made the provisions in the best interest of Goa.
We really hope the tourism industry can bounce back despite all the adversities.