Union Budget 2026: Nalanda and Rajgir tourism stakeholders seek more infrastructure support

Nalanda and Rajgir, located in south-central Bihar, are among the state’s most significant historical and spiritual centres.

Nalanda is globally known as one of the earliest centres of learning, while Rajgir holds deep religious importance for followers of Buddhism and Jainism, apart from being a scenic tourist destination.

In recent years, both towns have seen infrastructure development aimed at improving tourist facilities and accessibility. However, as the Union Budget approaches, stakeholders in the local tourism industry say more focused investment is needed to drive growth.

They argue that tourism supports a large section of the local population and that enhanced infrastructure would not only attract more visitors but also lead to increased employment opportunities in the region.

According to Manoj Kumar, hotelier, "From the upcoming budget, we have this expectation that there will be growth in local businesses, development will take place, and employment opportunities will be created. We also hope that awareness is spread in the simplest possible way so that businesses operating here can function more easily. Things should remain affordable so that people do not find goods expensive and are able to purchase them.."

Religious representatives in Rajgir say proper development is crucial to ensuring that visitors leave with a positive impression of the town.

Meanwhile, a ‘’From the upcoming budget, we have this expectation that there will be growth in local businesses, development will take place, and employment opportunities will be created. We also hope that awareness is spread in the simplest possible way, so that businesses operating here can function more easily. Things should remain affordable, so that people do not find goods expensive and are able to purchase them."

Despite government efforts to promote Rajgir as a tourist destination, hoteliers claim that the number of visitors is still low.

They are calling on the Finance Minister to introduce targeted initiatives in the Union Budget to support tourism-related businesses.

"From the upcoming budget, we have only this expectation from the government: that tourism should be promoted and that meaningful work should be done in the budget for the benefit of the people.

We are hotel operators here in Rajgir, and Rajgir has been promoted as a tourist destination by Nitish ji. But as you can see, there is very low footfall.. There should definitely be packages for hotels. The government should think about us as well and prepare a budget that includes provisions for us. This is the hope we have," said Bablu , another hotelier.

On February 1, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will deliver the second complete budget for the third term of the Modi administration.