The Blue Train, South Africa | Often called "Moving five-star hotel on wheels," it is one of the world's most luxurious trains, known for its lavish cabins, private suites and elegant dining. The train travels through parts of the Karoo Desert, which offers rolling grasslands, rugged mountains and vineyards of the Western Cape. (Image: Reuters)
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CNBC TV1830-01-2026, 16:42

Radisson's Nikhil Sharma Urges Infrastructure Status for Hospitality in Budget 2026

  • Nikhil Sharma of Radisson Hotel Group advocates for hospitality to be recognized as economic infrastructure in the Union Budget 2026.
  • Tourism contributes 7-8% to India's GDP and employs over 40 million people, warranting stronger policy focus.
  • Infrastructure status would provide access to long-term, lower-cost capital, especially for projects in Tier II and III cities.
  • Sharma suggests GST rationalization to boost competitiveness, improve pricing, and attract international tourists.
  • He also calls for targeted global promotion of high-value segments like MICE and wellness tourism, and incentives for sustainable practices.

Why It Matters: Radisson's Nikhil Sharma emphasizes treating hospitality as economic infrastructure for sustainable growth and investment.

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