Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, during her Budget presentation today, unveiled a comprehensive plan to boost connectivity, infrastructure, and tourism across India. The government is set to introduce 20 new national waterways over the next five years, alongside incentives for seaplane operations through a Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme.In her speech, the Finance Minister announced seven new high-speed rail corridors, which will connect major cities, promoting eco-friendly passenger transport. Sitharaman also announced the development of five new regional medical hubs in partnership with private players to foster medical tourism.
Speaking further on tourism, the Finance Minister also announced the establishment of National Institute of Hospitality, an upgrade to the exisiting hospitality and catering schools.
She also announced that TCS rate on the sale of overseas tour programme packages will be reduced from 5% and 20% to 2% with any stipulation amount.
To upskill manforce in the tourism industry, Sitharaman announced launching a pilot program to upskill 10,000 guides at 20 iconic tourist destinations. Additionally, a National Destination Knowledge Grid will be created, 15 new archaeological sites will be developed, and new hiking trails will be established in Himachal, Uttarakhand and Jammu & Kashmir to encourage adventure tourism.
The government’s vision for enhanced connectivity includes a significant push for waterways. Over the next five years, 20 new national waterways will be developed. This initiative aims to make water transport more efficient and accessible. To further support this, incentives will be provided for seaplanes. A special scheme, the Seaplane VGF scheme, will be introduced. This scheme will help fund seaplane operations, making them more viable.
In terms of rail travel, seven high-speed rail corridors are planned. These corridors will link cities, acting as growth connectors. The goal is to promote passenger systems that are good for the environment. This means faster and greener travel options for people.
Tourism is also a major focus. A hub for medical value tourism will be created. Five new regional medical hubs will be developed. These will be built in collaboration with private companies. This move aims to attract people seeking medical treatment from abroad.
To improve the hospitality sector, a National Institute of Hospitality will be established. This institute will focus on training and development. Furthermore, a pilot scheme will be launched to upskill 10,000 guides. These guides will be trained at 20 iconic tourist sites. This will enhance the visitor experience.
A National Destination Knowledge Grid will also be announced. This grid will likely help manage and share information about tourist destinations. The country will see the development of 15 new archaeological sites. These sites will be spread across the nation.
To boost adventure tourism, new hiking trails will be developed. These trails will be located in Himachal, Uttarakhand and Jammu & Kashmir offering exciting opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Later she also announced the development of 5 new tourist destinations in the Northeast India.>
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