States getting bold: Madhok
In line with the global recognition as the engine driving the economy of the whole world, WTTCII organised a retreat to ignite the spark among all states to work together in the most cohesive manner to promote tourism. A few highlights...
The World Travel and Tourism Council, India Initiative (WTTCII) in its recent initiative- WTTCII Retreat held at Bekal in Kerala paved way to ignite a spark among all states to promote tourism.
“Tourism is the engine driving the economy of the world. The presence of Union Minister of Tourism, two state tourism ministers and over six principal secretaries of states at our event among key stakeholders in the private sectors for closed door brain storming reflect the commitment of the private and the public sector,” said Vikram Madhok, Chairperson, WTTCII.
“In fact, states are now gearing up for taking bold initiatives. The recent announcement of the Kerala Government to start its own airline is a step in the right direction. It should be nurtured with the help of private stakeholders in such a manner that it adds to the strength of our national carrier and creates air connectivity in most bankable routes to Kerala. Other states like Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh are also doing commendable job,” he added.
Our country has immense tourism potential. But a few crucial issues need to be addressed on urgent basis. For instance, cost of the Air Turbine Fuel has increased over four folds, while the government continues to tax it on the same rate
Madhok further highlighted that the WTTCII’s objective is to ignite the spark among all states to work together in the most cohesive manner. The association has chosen the southern states to start from.
“Our country has immense tourism potential. But, a few crucial issues need to be addressed on urgent basis. For instance, cost of the air turbine fuel (ATF) has increased over four folds, while the government continues to tax it on the same rate. Similarly, on the hospitality front, tax is being levied on the published rate, while most of the times rooms depending on the demand constraints are actually sold at comparably more affordable rates,” said Madhok.
“These tax practices should be immediately addressed, as tourism is a competitive industry, wherein our country and states are competing highly competitive destinations. The union government and state government should create conducive environment for tourism sector to grow in larger interest,” he added.