Budgeting for a McDonald's franchise cost in India involves a significant upfront investment, typically ranging from ₹6-8 crore. This includes the franchise fee, real estate and construction costs, equipment, and other operational expenses. Additionally, ongoing costs such as royalty fees (approximately 4-5% of revenue), marketing contributions, staff wages, and training fees must be considered. Careful financial planning is essential to cover both initial and recurring expenses, ensuring profitability in a competitive market.