New Delhi, March 26 Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood said on Thursday that the time has come to develop the national capital into a leading tourism destination rather than just a transit hub, asserting that the city's growth vision is centered on improving infrastructure, aesthetics, and the visitor experience.
Addressing the second ICC Aviation and Tourism Summit 2026 organized by the Indian Chamber of Commerce, Sood said the Delhi Budget 2026-27 lays a roadmap for building a developed city defined by order, opportunity, and modern infrastructure.
The summit brought together policymakers, aviation and tourism industry leaders, and other stakeholders to deliberate on growth prospects and collaboration in the sector. ICC Tourism Excellence Awards were also presented on the occasion, an official statement said.
Sood highlighted the importance of first impressions for tourists and said that the arrival experience plays a crucial role. He said Indira Gandhi International Airport reflects the city's identity and has been recognized as the best airport in India and South Asia for the eighth consecutive time.
He added that initiatives such as cultural displays and technology-driven systems like DigiYatra have improved passenger experience, making travel smoother and more efficient.
Referring to the Delhi Budget, Sood said the Rs 1.37 lakh crore outlay for 2026-27 focuses on infrastructure and urban development.
The capital expenditure has been increased to Rs 32,000 crore, with Rs 2,613 crore earmarked for transport and related infrastructure, including the redevelopment of around 750 km of roads, he added.
He said projects such as flyovers and corridors, including the Barapullah Phase-3, are aimed at easing congestion and improving connectivity across the city.
Efforts to promote Delhi's global image through initiatives like "Branding Delhi" are also underway, as such events and cultural infrastructure help in boosting tourism, he added.
The minister further said the government is also focusing on sustainable growth with a dedicated green budget and policies promoting electric vehicles and solar energy.
He called for collective efforts to position Delhi not only as the political capital but also as a cultural and tourism hub, adding that the government aims to ensure a positive experience for every visitor.