On February 1, 2026, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget for the financial year 2026-27 in Parliament. She announced new projects to develop ecologically sustainable trails in India. "India has the potential and opportunity to offer world-class trekking and hiking experience," she said. The government will create mountain trails in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Arakku Valley in Andhra Pradesh, and Podhigai Malai between Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Along coastal areas of Odisha, Karnataka, and Kerala, turtle trails will be established near key nesting sites. Additionally, three birdwatching trails will be developed along Pulicat Lake on the Andhra Pradesh-Tamil Nadu border. Ms. Sitharaman emphasized the dual focus on tourism and ecological care. These initiatives aim to boost eco-tourism and promote India’s natural diversity. "We will develop ecologically sustainable mountain trails," she noted, highlighting the blend of adventure and conservation.