Thanks to the Union Minister, the budget gifts reliefs to middle income earners on several fronts. An excellent gesture is to exempt from tax, earnings up to Rs 12.75 Lakhs, excluding Capital Gains.
On Travel & Tourism, the much awaited “Industry Status” continues to evade the stakeholders.
The various measures announced in Tourism, reflects that the Government is finally focusing on higher revenue streams from Tourism. The TOP 50 Destinations to be developed in partnership with States in a “Challenge Mode” can support growth and higher employment.
Modified UDAAN scheme will surely enhance regional connectivity. Getting extended to 120 new destinations boosts connectivity which will usher in more travel.
GST & TCS challenges the agencies are currently facing, will unfortunately continue. The only relief in TCS is the increase of threshold from Rs 7 Lakhs to 10 Lakhs.
Government promoting homestays by extending MUDRA Loans will surely encourage development of more “homestays” infrastructure to support and promote tourism.
Offering Visa fee waivers and e-visa options for certain tourist groups to be introduced is a welcome-gesture, that will attract more visitors.
Focus on Medical Tourism and wellness centers in partnership with private sector will help in capacity building.
Other features like special attention on destinations related to Lord buddha; incentives to states for effective destination management, indicate Government’s desire to focus on more Inbound and Domestic Tourism.
This is a welcome budget, with adequate attention focused on Tourism Sector.
