India, Feb. 1 -- The Union Budget 2026-27 has mentioned tourism as a key driver of employment generation and regional development, announcing a range of measures spanning eco-tourism, heritage conservation, transport connectivity, guide skilling and medical tourism.

Presenting the Budget in Parliament on Sunday, Union finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, "The tourism sector has the potential to play a large role in employment generation, forex earnings and expanding the local economy."

A major focus was placed on trekking and nature-based tourism. Sitharaman said, "India has the potential and opportunity to offer world-class trekking and hiking experience." She announced that the government would develop ecologically sustainable mo...