Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has now announced major changes for India’s tourism sector under Budget 2026-27. These changes will reshape how tourists experience and explore the country. Not just that, they will also play a key role in how tourism functions while boosting economic growth. Scroll down to know all about it!
Union Budget 2026 Shines A Light On Tourism In The Country
According to a report by India TV, the Union Budget 2026 has placed tourism at the centre of national development. It will not only boost the economy but also create employment while showcasing India’s diversity to the world. Here are the ten major announcements:
1. National Institute of Hospitality: A dedicated national institute of hospitality will be developed. It will improve professional education and leadership in tourism and hospitality.
2. Buddhist circuits: According to The Economic Times, the government will create five new tourism hubs and Buddhist circuits in Northeast India to promote culture and heritage.
3. Development of 15 archaeological sites: Ancient sites like Dholavira, Rakhigarhi, and Sarnath will be transformed and developed. This aims to attract both domestic and international tourists.
4. Medical tourism hubs: Authorities will set up five regional medical tourism hubs across India. These hubs will include AYUSH centres, diagnostic facilities, and post-care rehabilitation services.
5. Astro-tourism: According to a report by India TV, while presenting the Union Budget 2026, the Finance Minister said the government will upgrade telescopes at key locations. This will promote night-sky tourism experiences.
Also Read: Union Budget 2026: India To Get 7 New High-Speed Rail Corridors Between THESE Cities
Other Tourism Plans Announced
6. Turtle and bird-watching trails: Turtle trails will be created along key nesting sites in Odisha, Karnataka, and Kerala. Furthermore, authorities will also work on developing bird-watching trails around Pulicat Lake in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
7. Trekking and hiking infrastructure: According to a report by The Economic Times, sustainable trekking infrastructure will be built across mountain trails in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu and Kashmir.
8. Pilot skilling programme: A pilot skilling programme will train 10,000 tourist guides across 20 iconic destinations.
9. National Destination Digital Knowledge Grid: A digital platform will document sites of cultural, spiritual, and heritage importance. This will also create jobs for local researchers.
10. TCS on overseas tours reduced: TCS on overseas tour packages has been cut from up to 20 per cent to a flat 2 per cent. This is good news for travellers and the tourism industry.
Also Read: Ministry Of Tourism Acknowledges Role Of Travel Influencers; Govt To Regulate Travel Content?
What do you think of these new announcements? Do share your thoughts with us in the comment section below.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Allexxandar and Smithore (Representative Image)
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