Union Budget 2026 expectations: Shikhar Aggarwal, Joint Managing Director, BLS International

Here’s the official statement from Shikhar Aggarwal, Joint Managing Director of BLS International, regarding expectations from the Union Budget 2026:

Key Points from Shikhar Aggarwal
- Positive Policy Outlook: India’s travel and tourism ecosystem has already benefited from the government’s progressive stance on global mobility and ease of travel.
- Disposable Income Boost: Measures to increase disposable income would encourage higher spending on both domestic and international travel.
- Targeted Travel Incentives: Specific incentives for tourism could further stimulate demand and strengthen the industry.
- Foreign Exchange & Taxes: A review of current forex limits and taxes on forex transactions would ease cash-flow pressures for both travelers and service providers.
- Long-Term Value: Together, these measures can unlock sustainable economic growth and contribute meaningfully to the government’s vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).

Direct Quote
> “India’s travel and tourism ecosystem has benefited significantly from the Government’s progressive policy outlook towards global mobility and ease of travel. We hope the government maintains this positive outlook. In addition, continued policy support through the upcoming Union Budget – particularly through certain measures to increase disposable income, as well as targeted travel incentives – would encourage people to spend more on both domestic and international travel, boosting the overall tourism industry. Furthermore, a review of the current foreign exchange limits and taxes on forex transactions would further support this momentum by easing cash-flow pressures for travellers and service providers. Together, such measures can unlock long-term economic value and contribute meaningfully to the vision of a Viksit Bharat.” – Shikhar Aggarwal, JMD, BLS International

👉 This reflects the industry’s call for consumer-friendly fiscal measures that can directly stimulate tourism demand while aligning with India’s broader development goals.