Budget 2026: Tourism Industry Demands More Funds for 'Incredible India' Global Promotion

• The tourism industry is urging the government to allocate more funds in Budget 2026 for global promotion of 'Incredible India' to boost foreign tourist arrivals and generate jobs.
• Overseas promotion and publicity budget was drastically cut from Rs 33 crore in FY25 to Rs 3 crore in FY26, hindering international marketing efforts.
• Proposals include establishing an 'India Tourism Promotion Board' and prioritizing international marketing in long-haul and emerging source markets.
• The industry also seeks simplified Tax Collected at Source (TCS) rates, suggesting a universal 1 percent rate instead of the current multi-tier structure (5% and 20%).
• Emphasis is also placed on improving infrastructural connectivity, expanding airports, enhancing rail travel, and modernizing skill development in tourism with AI-integrated modules.

Why It Matters: Tourism industry seeks significant budget increase for global promotion and policy reforms to boost foreign arrivals.