Sat Feb 01 07:12:48 UTC 2025: ## India Unveils Ambitious Tourism Boost in 2025-26 Budget
**New Delhi** – India’s Union Budget for 2025-26, presented Saturday, includes a significant investment in the country’s tourism sector. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced a plan to upgrade infrastructure and facilities at the nation’s top 50 tourist destinations, working in partnership with state governments. The initiative aims to enhance accessibility and overall visitor experience.
Small tourism businesses will also receive a boost through expanded Mudra loan access for homestays, encouraging entrepreneurship in the hospitality sector.
Medical tourism, a growing area for India, will receive further government support, with the private sector playing a key role in its promotion. Leveraging India’s reputation for affordable, high-quality healthcare, the government aims to solidify the country’s position as a leading medical tourism destination.
Sites significant to the life and teachings of Lord Buddha will be prioritized in the development plan, expected to draw increased international tourism.
Beyond tourism, the budget also allocated funds to the Western Kosi Canal project in Bihar, promising irrigation improvements for 50,000 hectares of farmland and a substantial boost to the regional economy.
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