Dec 3, 2024: Recognizing that the states play a transformative role in the holistic development of tourism, the Ministry of Tourism has taken up many schemes to strengthen the state’s efforts. In consonance with this policy, the Hotel Association of India (HAI) is also increasing its outreach to the states. It has activated the state chapters, the latest being the NE Chapter. In this connection, Mr M.P. Bezbaruah, Secretary General, visited Guwahati and briefed the Minister of Tourism, Chief Secretary, Secretary to the CM, and Secretary of Tourism about the role of HAI, the premier industry association, and how the hospitality sector can be a catalyst in the future tourism journey of the state.

Delivering the Keynote address at the conference on “Assam’s Tourism Journey” organized by the Hotels and Restaurants Association of Assam (HRAA), Mr Bezbaruah, among other things, highlighted the crucial role of the private sector. He said, “Globally and in India, it has long been recognized that the private sector drives tourism growth. Recently, in budget speeches, the PM and the FM have brought attention to this role of PPP. However, the concept is least acted upon because there is no mechanism for systemic and continuous interaction. Secondly, the private sector’s voice has been disparate, not often presenting a collective face. This is why the collaboration of HAI with other associations is so crucial. Together, we can present a unified front and make our voices heard.” Mr Bezbaruah urged the government to frame suitable structures for effective PPP. The two main demands of HAI, –providing the industry benefits and allowing infrastructure status,– he said, are based on the economic rationale to lessen the demand and supply mismatch and create huge investments, thereby bringing in more revenue to the government, creating millions of direct and indirect jobs and promoting inclusive growth.

Referring to the need for active involvement of the industry in formulating policies and implementation, Mr Bezbaruah further said, “In PPP, the word ‘participation’ sounds passive. We want to emphasize ‘collaboration” with the government. During the Covid and recovery, HAI presented the industry problems to the Parliamentary Standing Committee, and its voice was reflected in their Report. As examples of constructive collaboration, HAI has adopted the LiFE initiative of the government for propagation and, in collaboration with WTTC and World Tourism Sustainability Council, promoted globally accepted certification for adopting sustainable norms in the industry.” He further informed us that HAI president Mr K. B. Kachru has written to the tourism minister to encourage the adoption of sustainable norms and certification by devising suitable incentives, particularly for SMEs.