Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated two new corridors linking historic Vishnupad and Mahabodhi temples in Bihar, following the model of Uttar Pradesh's Kashi Vishwanath Temple Corridor.

FM While presenting her seventh Budget to Parliament, Sitharaman stated that these two new routes will help develop these temple sites into world-class pilgrim and tourist attractions.

She stated that in addition to restoring Nalanda University to its former glory, the government will assist its growth as a tourism destination. Last month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the campus.

In addition, the government will launch a comprehensive development program for Rajgir, Bihar, a city of great religious significance to Hindus, Buddhists, and Jains.

The city is home to the historic 20th Tirthankar Munisuvrata temple in the Jain Temple complex, as well as the sacred Saptharishi or seven hot springs that create Brahmakund, a warm water lake.

The Finance Minister emphasized that cruise tourism has enormous potential and advocated a simplified tax framework for international shipping firms operating domestic cruises in the country.

"To give a fillip to this employment generating industry, I am proposing a simpler tax regime for foreign shipping companies operating domestic cruises in the country," according to her.

She also stated that the government will offer financial help for the development of tourism in Odisha. "Odisha's scenic splendor, temples, monuments, handicraft, animal sanctuaries, natural landscapes, and clean beaches make it the ideal tourist destination. "Our government will support their development," she stated.