India, Feb. 1 -- The Union Budget on Sunday placed tourism among the key sectors for employment generation and regional development, with proposals covering eco-tourism, heritage conservation, transport connectivity, guide skilling and medical tourism.

"The tourism sector has the potential to play a large role in employment generation, forex earnings and expanding the local economy," Sitharaman said.

A major announcement focused on trekking and nature-based tourism. Sitharaman said, "India has the potential and opportunity to offer world-class trekking and hiking experience." She added that the government will develop ecologically sustainable mountain trails in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir, as well as in Araku Val...