Union Budget 2026: What Boutique Resorts Like Machan Are Hoping For
As India’s travel and tourism sector continues to evolve, boutique and nature-led resorts are looking to the Union Budget with renewed optimism. For hospitality brands rooted in sustainability and experiential travel, policy support can play a defining role in shaping the future.
Sanat Hooja, Partner at Machan Resorts, shares thoughtful expectations from this year’s Union Budget—highlighting the need for balanced growth that protects nature while empowering local communities.
Sustainability at the Core of Tourism Growth
“At Machan Resorts, sustainability is not a trend—it’s a responsibility,” says Hooja. In the upcoming Union Budget, the brand hopes to see stronger measures that actively encourage sustainable and responsible tourism.
This includes incentives for:
Eco-friendly infrastructure
Renewable energy adoption
Low-impact resort operations
Such initiatives would not only reduce the environmental footprint of hospitality businesses but also inspire more resorts to adopt conscious, long-term practices that align with India’s commitment to sustainable development.
Strengthening the Hospitality Ecosystem
Beyond green initiatives, there is also a strong expectation for policies that support the broader hospitality ecosystem, particularly small and mid-sized resorts that form the backbone of experiential travel in India.
Hooja points out the importance of:
Simplified licensing processes
Financial assistance and easier access to credit
Improved connectivity to emerging and offbeat destinations
“These measures can significantly reduce operational challenges and help resorts focus more on guest experience rather than administrative hurdles,” he adds.
Impact Beyond Tourism: Communities, Employment & Culture
Supportive budgetary policies have a ripple effect that goes far beyond tourism numbers. According to Hooja, such initiatives enable resorts to:
Contribute meaningfully to local communities
Create employment opportunities in rural and semi-urban areas
Showcase India’s rich natural and cultural heritage to both domestic and international travellers
“When tourism grows responsibly, everyone benefits—from local artisans and guides to global travellers seeking authentic Indian experiences,” he explains.
Looking Ahead
As India positions itself as a global travel destination, voices from eco-conscious hospitality brands like Machan Resorts highlight an important truth: the future of tourism lies in sustainability, simplicity, and inclusivity.
With the right policy support in the Union Budget, India’s tourism industry can continue to grow—while preserving the landscapes, cultures, and communities that make it truly special.
