Commenting on the Union Budget, Vikram Lalvani, Managing Director & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts, said, “The Union Budget 2026 reflects a clear thematic shift in India’s tourism agenda—from destinations to purpose-led journeys
It positions tourism as a multi-dimensional engine anchored in wellness and healing, spiritual and cultural circuits, nature and conservation-led travel, adventure and mountain ecosystems, and stronger regional connectivity that enables exploration beyond metros.
He added, “Equally significant is the focus on strengthening the sector’s foundations through hospitality education and skilling, structured upskilling of guides, and the creation of a national digital knowledge grid—measures that can raise service standards, enhance visitor experience, and support sustainable destination development.”
He continued, “Initiatives spanning Buddhist circuits, sustainable Himalayan hiking trails, medical and wellness tourism, Ayurveda, heritage-led travel, and conservation-linked trails such as Odisha’s turtle nesting corridors together create the right ecosystem for responsible growth—where communities, travellers and destinations all benefit. Overall, the Budget creates a strong tailwind for experience-led hospitality and tourism models built around circuits, longer stays and more meaningful travel.”
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