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The budget allocation for Ministry of Tourism was increased from Rs. 1,692.1 crore in 2023-2024 to Rs. 2,479.62 crore in 2024-25. However, the allocation for overseas promotion and publicity, including Market Development Assistance (MDA) was slashed from `100 crore to `33.02 crore. On the other hand, allocation for domestic promotion and publicity & MDA was increased from `95 crore to Rs. 176.97 crore. The finance minister announced the development of Vishnupad Temple Corridor and Mahabodhi Temple Corridor, besides promoting Rajgir and Nalanda as tourist destinations. Focus will also be on Odisha to be developed as a tourist destination. A major announcement was of simpler tax regime for foreign shipping companies operating domestic cruises in the country, aiming to give a fillip to cruise tourism in India. Apart from that, Sitharaman highlighted the government’s Startup Credit Guarantee Schemes.