The continued decline in foreign tourist arrivals, as highlighted in the Economic Survey 2026, clearly shows the need to strengthen global promotion of Brand India. With arrivals still below pre-pandemic levels and a further drop in 2025, inadequate overseas marketing remains a concern. India’s tourism potential is vast and employment-generating, but this requires stronger international visibility. Budget 2026 must substantially increase the allocation for overseas tourism promotion, including global campaigns like Incredible India.
— Jaswant Singh, ATDF president
Budget seen as inclusive despite pending trade demands
At a time of global market uncertainty, India’s GDP growth is encouraging and deserves appreciation. While some demands such as a separate trade ministry and a pension scheme for traders were not addressed, the union Budget remains positive overall. The focus on new industries in Marathwada, relief for minor income tax errors, government guarantees for small loans and permission for municipal bonds will benefit traders, entrepreneurs and employment generation. Overall, the budget is inclusive.
— Laxminarayan Rathi, vice president, district traders’ federation, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
Budget 2026 supports healthcare reforms
The union Budget 2026 includes several positive steps for healthcare, such as higher biopharma funding, relief on cancer and rare disease medicines, expansion of mental health institutions, stronger emergency and trauma care, and a push for medical value tourism. However, public health spending remains limited at 1–2 per cent and should rise to at least 5 per cent. Effective implementation will require adequate staffing, infrastructure, legal protection for healthcare workers and timely funding to ensure quality patient care.
—- Dr Anupam Takalkar, IMA president