Press Release – TOURISM SECTOR DEMANDS A SLEW OF BENEFITS TO SURVIVE

Pre-budget meeting with the CM

TOURISM SECTOR DEMANDS A SLEW OF BENEFITS TO SURVIVE

Jaipur, 29 January: On behalf of the tourism sector, the President of the Federation of Hospitality and Tourism of Rajasthan (FHTR), Mr Apurv Kumar made a detailed presentation  on Friday to the Rajasthan Chief Minister, Mr Ashok Gehlot, demanding a slew of benefits for the industry to survive.  He further emphasised to the Chief Minister that the pandemic will be a part of our lives and will affect tourism for at least 3 to 6 months every year. So, any tourism policy designed should be made keeping this in mind and not impose any fixed fiscal burden on the industry.

Mr Kumar said that the biggest blow by the pandemic has been on the tourism sector, both formal and informal sector. He urged the Chief Minister to give industrial rate of electricity and property tax as tourism had been declared an industry way back in 1989. This will not only help sustain the current investors but will also bring in new investment in the sector as Rajasthan will be recognised as the first State to give required support to tourism when it is most needed.

The President of FHTR also mooted for waiver of property tax/lease rent for urban development tax for a minimum period of 3 years. Similarly, the bar license fee should be reduced by 75% in view of the heavy losses incurred by the hotel units. It is to be noted that in 2021-22 the bar licence fee had been reduced by 25%.

The industry also seeks relief in electricity fixed charges and electricity duty. It also demands a three-year extension of permission without any charges under Rajasthan Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises Ordnance 2019.

Furthermore, he also demanded incentives for the tourism industry for film shooting and MICE events. Also, exemption of license fees for performances, film shoots and events at heritage destinations to boost state Heritage Tourism. Similarly, he also appealed for Capital Subsidy for setting up heritage hotels and hotels in rural areas.

He requested waiver of motor vehicle tax on tourist luxury coaches for the period of October 21 to 29 September 22 as the business has practically stopped.