Tourism is set to receive a significant boost in India following Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s Union Budget 2025 announcements. The comprehensive plan encompasses the development of 50 new tourist destinations through state partnerships, aiming to strengthen the tourism sector whilst creating employment opportunities across the country. These initiatives collectively represent a strategic effort to enhance India’s tourism sector. The reform focuses on infrastructure development, skill enhancement, and accessibility improvements whilst promoting both traditional and emerging forms of tourism.
Union Budget 2025: Tourism Sector To Get An Impetus
A notable aspect of the initiative is the focus on skill development, with the government planning to collaborate with hospitality management institutes to provide structured training programmes. This move will particularly benefit local youth, equipping them with the necessary skills for employment in the tourism industry.
The budget introduces practical financial support measures, including the extension of Mudra loans for homestay development. This provision will enable homeowners to adapt their properties for tourist accommodation, creating additional income streams whilst expanding the available lodging options for visitors.
Medical tourism has received special attention, with plans to promote India as a premier healthcare destination in partnership with the private sector. The country’s growing reputation in this field is expected to strengthen further. It will attract foreign patients seeking high-quality medical services.
Visa Fee Waivers, Funding For Research And Other Details
The government has allocated a substantial ₹20,000 crore for research, development and innovation, demonstrating its commitment to modernising the tourism infrastructure. This investment will support the upgrade of existing tourist sites.
It will also enhance digital services, and facilitate the development of new tourist hubs. To streamline international travel, the government plans to implement visa fee waivers for certain foreign tourist groups and expand the e-visa system.
Additionally, specific attention will be given to developing sites associated with Lord Buddha’s life and teachings, potentially attracting religious and cultural tourists. The budget also addresses regional development, with provisions for infrastructure projects such as the Western Kosi Canal, which will benefit the Mithilanchal region in Bihar.
The inclusion of hotels in the harmonised scheme further demonstrates the government’s comprehensive approach to tourism development.
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