Should the Indian Heritage Hotels Association Get GST Exemption for Foreign Tourists?
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Synopsis
The Indian Heritage Hotels Association is advocating for a GST exemption for foreign tourists in a bid to enhance India's competitive edge against popular destinations. This initiative aims to revitalize heritage tourism, engage local communities, and ensure sustainable development while promoting India's rich cultural heritage.
Key Takeaways
- GST exemption for foreign tourists is being advocated to boost India's tourism.
- The IHHA Annual Convention will feature discussions on heritage tourism.
- Rajasthan holds a significant number of heritage hotels in India.
- The convention theme emphasizes the romantic aspects of heritage properties.
- Future initiatives will focus on empowering local communities.
Jaipur, Sep 2 (NationPress) The Indian Heritage Hotels Association (IHHA) has formally requested a GST exemption for foreign tourists in a memorandum submitted to Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat this Tuesday.
Captain Gaj Singh Alsisar, Secretary General of IHHA, pointed out that this initiative would enable India to enhance its competitive edge against popular tourist destinations like Southeast Asia and Israel, while also addressing the foreign exchange deficit stemming from ongoing US tariff challenges.
These comments were made during a press briefing held at Alsisar Haveli, in anticipation of the 12th IHHA Annual Convention and 24th Annual General Meeting.
The convention is scheduled to take place at Castle Kanota in Jaipur on September 6 and 7, with nearly 150 heritage hoteliers from across the nation set to attend.
Among the 206 heritage hotels in India, approximately 140 are situated in Rajasthan.
This year’s convention theme, 'Romantic Heritage', emphasizes how heritage properties reflect romance through their music, cuisine, architecture, and equestrian traditions.
On September 6, Rajasthan's Deputy Chief Minister and Tourism Minister Diya Kumari will inaugurate the exhibition by lighting the ceremonial lamp.
The opening session will feature a discussion on the Revival of Heritage Architecture by Sanjeev Vidyarthi, followed by a documentary screening on Rajasthan's folk music presented by Abhimanyu Singh Alsisar.
Additionally, a dialogue on Hotel Operations led by Veer Vijay Singh Dundlod and a presentation by Solar Edge Technologies will form part of the day's agenda.
Later, Union Minister Shekhawat will attend an exclusive IHHA Executive Committee meeting.
This session for committee members will conclude with a walk through General Amar Singh's Library and Museum, alongside a documentary screening about General Amar Singh at Mardana Bagh.
The second day, September 7, will host the IHHA's 24th Annual General Meeting, where elections will also take place.
Panel discussions will focus on the future of tourism, featuring notable representatives from Rajasthan.
Furthermore, discussions will delve into reviving traditional arts and crafts, as well as promoting horse safari and rural tourism.
The convention will wrap up with a vote of thanks from IHHA Joint Secretary Prithvi Singh Kanota.
The IHHA has reiterated its commitment to invigorating heritage tourism, encouraging the younger generation to assume leadership roles, and enhancing initiatives to promote India's heritage hotels on both domestic and international fronts.
Leaders from IHHA stressed that heritage tourism not only preserves cultural traditions but also guarantees sustainable development by involving local communities and fostering responsible tourism.
Future plans will concentrate on forming deeper collaborations with the government, empowering rural communities, and positioning India as a top global heritage tourism destination.
Point of View
The Indian Heritage Hotels Association's request for GST exemption reflects a strategic move to boost India's tourism sector. This approach not only aligns with efforts to promote sustainable development but also emphasizes the importance of heritage in attracting international visitors. The focus on youth engagement in heritage tourism is commendable and showcases a forward-thinking strategy.
NationPress
02/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the IHHA's memorandum?
The IHHA's memorandum aims to request a GST exemption for foreign tourists to enhance India's competitiveness in tourism.
Where will the IHHA Annual Convention be held?
The convention will take place at Castle Kanota in Jaipur on September 6 and 7.
What is the theme of this year's convention?
The theme for this year's convention is 'Romantic Heritage' which reflects the romantic essence of heritage properties.
Who will inaugurate the exhibition at the convention?
Rajasthan's Deputy Chief Minister and Tourism Minister Diya Kumari will inaugurate the exhibition.
What key topics will be discussed during the panels?
Topics will include the future of tourism, reviving traditional arts and crafts, and promoting rural tourism.
