Union Budget 2025 Focuses On Boosting Tourism, Regional Connectivity, And Urban Development For Growth and Infrastructure
In the Union Budget 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced several initiatives aimed at boosting tourism, regional connectivity, and urban development. These measures are focused on driving growth and employment, as well as improving infrastructure in different sectors.
UDAN Scheme Enhances Regional Connectivity
Under the UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik) scheme, the dream of 1.5 crore people being able to travel by plane has been realized.
- As part of the scheme, 88 airports have been added to improve regional connectivity.
- The scheme will be revised to increase the number of destinations to 120 new locations.
- This will provide 1,000 crore people with the opportunity to travel by air.
- Additionally, 3 greenfield airports will be developed in Bihar, and the Patna and Behta airports will undergo expansion to enhance their capacity.
50 Tourist Destinations to Be Developed
The Finance Minister revealed plans to develop 50 tourist destinations with the involvement of state governments.
- This initiative will aim to improve the country's tourism potential.
- Additionally, skill development programs will be organised for hospitality management institutes to promote employment-driven development.
- Mudra loans will be made available for homestay facilities, improving travel and connectivity.
- There will also be an increase in e-visa services with exemptions in visa fees to encourage international tourism.
- Moreover, medical tourism and health-related benefits will be actively promoted.
- A total of ₹20,000 crore has been allocated for research, development, and innovation in tourism-related projects.
₹1 Lakh Crore Urban Challenge Fund
The Finance Minister announced the creation of a ₹1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund. This fund will support the transformation of cities into growth hubs and promote redevelopment initiatives.
- It will also enhance water and sanitation infrastructure.
- The fund will finance up to 25% of the cost of bankable projects.
- The remaining 50% of the funding must come from sources like bonds, bank loans, or public-private partnerships (PPPs).
- For the fiscal year 2025-26, an initial ₹10,000 crore has been allocated to kickstart this initiative.
Conclusion
These announcements in the Union Budget 2025 aim to strengthen the tourism industry, improve air connectivity, and transform urban areas across the country. The government is committed to fostering growth, increasing opportunities for employment, and enhancing the overall infrastructure of key sectors.
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