Reacting to the Union Budget 2026–27, Mr. Ravi Gosain, President, Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), welcomed the government’s clear and timely focus on tourism, recognizing it as a key driver of employment generation, foreign exchange earnings, and inclusive economic growth.
Mr. Gosain appreciated the emphasis on institution-building through the proposed National Institute of Hospitality and the large-scale skilling of tourist guides, noting that these initiatives would strengthen professionalism and enhance India’s global tourism competitiveness.
He also described the proposed National Destination Digital Knowledge Grid as a forward-looking initiative that would support the preservation of India’s cultural and heritage assets while delivering tangible benefits to local communities and tourism stakeholders.
The IATO President further welcomed the focus on eco-tourism, trekking, and wildlife trails, aligning India’s tourism offerings with growing global demand for sustainable and experience-based travel.
However, Mr. Gosain pointed out that while the 2% TCS on outbound spending is a positive regulatory step, the industry remains disappointed by the absence of a dedicated budgetary allocation for overseas tourism promotion, which is critical for boosting inbound tourism.
“It is reassuring that tourism has been acknowledged in the Finance Minister’s speech. We remain hopeful that this positive intent will be supported by adequate financial backing in the period ahead,” he added.
