Ahead of the Union Budget, Pushpendra Bansal, Chief Operating Officer at Lords Hotels & Resorts, has outlined key policy priorities that could help the hospitality sector operate more efficiently and unlock its next phase of growth.
Bansal said the industry is looking for structural relief through GST rationalisation, restoration of input tax credits, and simplified compliance frameworks. According to him, such measures would ease financial pressures on hotels and allow operators to redirect focus toward service quality, people development, and digital adoption.
“As we look ahead to the Union Budget, the hospitality industry is hopeful for policies that make it easier to operate, invest, and grow. Rationalizing GST, restoring input tax credits, and simplifying compliance would ease financial pressures,” he said.
He also reiterated the long-standing demand for granting industry status to hospitality, noting that this would improve access to institutional finance, reduce borrowing costs, and enable small and mid-sized hotels to invest in long-term infrastructure.
On the demand side, Bansal highlighted the importance of travel facilitation reforms. Simpler visa processes, wider e-visa coverage, and faster approvals could significantly strengthen inbound tourism, while targeted measures to encourage domestic business and leisure travel would help sustain occupancies, revenues, and employment across regions.
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Sustainability emerged as another key focus area, with Bansal pointing to the need for incentives supporting energy-efficient buildings, renewable energy, water conservation, and waste management. He also underlined the value of encouraging sustainable food and beverage practices through local sourcing and partnerships with farmers and artisans, which can strengthen local economies while enhancing guest experiences.
Improved air and road connectivity to Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, emerging leisure destinations, and remote locations remains critical for future growth. Better regional access, along with improved road safety standards and signage, would boost traveller confidence and unlock new markets for hospitality investment.
“With balanced and forward-looking policy support, the hospitality sector can play a vital role in driving economic growth, creating large-scale employment, supporting local communities, and building a more resilient and globally competitive tourism ecosystem for India,” Bansal added.
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