Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the government will develop 50 tourist destinations across the country. For this, the Indian government will collaborate with states in which the destinations will be developed. The government’s approach aims for employment-led growth.
The Tourism Ministry budget allocation was increased to Rs 2,541.06 crore for the fiscal year 2025-26. This marks an increase of Rs 850.36 crore from the 2024-25 budget of Rs 1690.7 crore. The increased funding will be used to upgrade India’s tourism infrastructure, enhance domestic and international travel, and improve the safety of tourists, specifically women.
Presented by Nirmala Sitharaman, the 2025-26 budget involves initiatives like the extension of MUDRA loans for homestays and small hospitality enterprises, e-visa facility and visa-free waivers for chosen tourist groups, the launch of the ‘Heal in India’ program for medical tourism, development of Buddhist Heritage sites, etc.
Gajendra Singh, the Union Tourism and Culture Minister, posted a message welcoming Nirmala Sitharaman’s announcement on X.
Due to the new budget, people can expect to see growth in places to visit in India with family and friends or even solo and have fun. From the budget, an amount of Rs 1900 crore will be used for the integrated Development of Tourism Circuits under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme. PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive) will also receive funding from the budget to enhance cultural and spiritual tourism.