New Delhi, Feb. 1 -- The government has announced plans to develop 'ecologically sustainable trails' in hilly areas such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, Araku Valley in the Eastern Ghats and Pothigai Malai in the Western Ghats. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman made the announcement while presenting the Union Budget 2026-27 on Sunday.

The initiative aims to strengthen India's tourism sector while ensuring 'minimal; impact on the environment.

"India has the potential and opportunity to offer world-class trekking and hiking experiences," Sitharaman said. "The government will develop sustainable mountain trails in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Jammu & Kashmir, as well as in Araku Valley in the Eastern Ghats and Pot...