New Delhi: To boost tourism in the North-Eastern region, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, Sunday proposed a scheme for the development of Buddhist circuits in several Purvodaya states during the Union Budget 2026-27. While presenting the Budget, Sitharaman said, “I propose to launch a scheme for the development of Buddhist circuits in Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Assam, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura. The scheme will cover the preservation of temples and monasteries”.
She added that the initiative aims to highlight the North-East’s rich spiritual heritage, stating, “Buddhist sites from the Northeast region. This scheme for the development of Buddhist Circuits in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim and other NE states is a historic step that honours our rich spiritual heritage. It will transform the region into a powerhouse of culture, commerce & connectivity”. In addition to promoting religious tourism, the Finance Minister announced plans to extend the Integrated East Coast Industrial Corridor into the North-East.
“The proposal to extend the Integrated East Coast Industrial Corridor into the North East is expected to attract industry, improve infrastructure and create jobs in remote areas”, Finance Minister further added. Sitharaman also unveiled other development measures, including the creation of five tourism destinations across five Purvodaya states and a provision for 4,000 e-buses to enhance regional connectivity. She highlighted Durgapur as a key nodal point for the East Coast Industrial Corridor.
Union budget gives big boost to the tourism sector
Further, experts have hailed the Union budget as a big boost to the travel and tourism ecosystem. Rikant Pittie, CEO & Co-Founder of EaseMyTrip reiterated that the Budget is a clear signal that the Indian government views travel and tourism not merely as a service industry, but as a strategic growth engine for the economy. With a series of forward-looking measures, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has laid the groundwork for a travel ecosystem that drives employment, regional development and global competitiveness.
“One of the most impactful announcements for the sector is the reduction in Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on overseas tour packages to a flat 2 per cent. By easing the upfront financial burden on travellers, this policy is set to enhance affordability, encourage outbound travel and stimulate demand. This move will benefit both consumers and the broader tourism economy. Equally encouraging is the government’s focus on connectivity and infrastructure. New air routes, seven high-speed rail corridors, expanded inland waterways and incentives for seaplane operations demonstrate a clear commitment to making even India’s most remote and scenic destinations accessible. Improved travel connectivity will not only strengthen domestic tourism but also position India as a globally competitive destination, reducing travel friction and enabling seamless journeys for millions”, Pittie said.
“Destination development is another area where the budget demonstrates vision. Heritage sites, spiritual and Buddhist circuits, eco-tourism trails, adventure tourism and the development of 15 archaeological sites as world-class destinations reflect an understanding of evolving traveller preferences. Modern travellers increasingly seek immersive, experiential journeys and these initiatives will elevate India’s cultural and natural tourism footprint on the global stage. The budget also emphasises on medical tourism”, EaseMyTrip founder further added.
“By developing regional healthcare hubs and promoting India as a global destination for medical travel, the government is opening opportunities for integrated tourism experiences that combine wellness, accessibility and world-class healthcare. These initiatives not only enhance India’s appeal to international travellers but also create avenues for innovation, collaboration, and infrastructure development within the healthcare and travel sectors”, Pittie said. Pittie also welcomed the proposals for training programs for tourist guides and development of medical tourism hubs. Pittie dubbed the budget as a roadmap for travel renaissance.
The Union Budget 2026 has placed tourism at the centre of its employment and growth strategy, highlighting its role in job creation, foreign exchange earnings and local economic development. The government outlined a mix of institution-building, skilling, digital documentation and eco-tourism initiatives to strengthen the sector across India.
(With Inputs from ANI)
