Embracing the Future: Budget 2025 Expectations

As India prepares for the Union Budget 2025, industry leaders are vocal about their expectations, focusing on enhanced connectivity, GST rate reductions, and sustainable transport initiatives. These measures aim to boost the travel and hospitality sector, aligning with India's ambition to become a $1 trillion tourism economy by 2047.

Strengthening Domestic Tourism and Infrastructure

Ambika Saxena, CEO of TWH Hospitality, emphasizes the need for stronger domestic tourism initiatives and increased budgetary allocations to promote emerging destinations. She also highlights the importance of policies to attract international tourists and support skill development in hospitality, which would significantly contribute to the country's GDP.

Revolutionizing Intercity Mobility

Manish Rathi, co-founder and CEO of IntrCity SmartBus, discusses the potential to transform India's intercity mobility landscape. He advocates for the development of airport-style centralized bus terminals along national highways, which would encourage more Indians to choose shared mobility over private vehicles. Rathi also sees opportunities in integrating commercial cargo with passenger transport, supporting India's sustainability goals.

Boosting the Travel and Hospitality Sector

Rajan Bahadur, CEO of Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council, shares insights on how reduced GST rates, infrastructure upgrades, and financial support for sustainable projects can create a robust ecosystem for industry growth. He also emphasizes the importance of enhanced connectivity and increased allocation for skill development and digital transformation.

Prioritizing Regional Connectivity and Sustainability

Vishal Suri, Managing Director & CEO of SOTC Travel Limited, and Vijeta Soni, Co-Founder & CEO of Sciative Solutions, both stress the importance of prioritizing regional connectivity and supporting niche tourism segments. They also call for tax reforms, including the simplification of GST and incentives for eco-friendly tourism practices, to ensure the industry's sustainable growth.