FHRAI proposes special tourism circuit for eastern region

Despite huge potential, eastern and North-East region losing out on tourism due to infra bottlenecks and high taxes

The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) has proposed the creation of a special circuit -- 'Splendours of Eastern India' -- to boost tourist footfall in the region.

Given the changing dynamics of tourism and the young tourists' penchant for exploring new lifestyles and cultures, the circuit can help tap the vast unexplored potential of the eastern region as well as the North-East.

"It may be an excellent idea to network and jointly market the region by creating a new circuit 'Splendours of Eastern India'. As an example, the region has a large number of places important to Buddhism. Tourists who visit Bodh Gaya can cover the entire eastern and North Eastern states where there are Buddhist temples and relics. Tourists particularly those from China, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia and Myanmar will be delighted to visit these places", Sudesh Poddar, president, Hotel and Restaurant Association of Eastern India (HRAEI) said in a release.

The FHRAI, the apex body of four regional associations representing the hospitality sector, is hosting its 50th convention in Bhubaneswar from September 25-27. The convention is likely to be attended by over 1,000 delegates.

Poddar feels Odisha would benefit hugely from this convention since the convention would see participation of an array of high profile delegates, which include top hotel chain owners, chief executive officers of foreign operators, hospitality industry consultants, senior government officials and other stakeholders of the hospitality industry.

"It is a great opportunity for Odisha to showcase its unlimited tourism potential in view of its diverse tourism assets. Those attending the convention will have the opportunity to experience the hospitality of the people of Odisha", he said.

Despite the huge potential, the eastern and North-East region have been losing out on tourism due to infrastructure bottlenecks and high taxation rates.

"To encourage entrepreneurs to set up luxury properties in this region, the government should exempt the units from all taxes for first five years. Fiscal benefits coupled with infrastructure development are keys to growth of tourism in the region", said Poddar.

Besides the regional growth perspective, the three-day convention will be significant nationally as it will discuss, debate and deliberate upon the major issues concerning the industry in terms of policies, multiple taxation and possible impact of GST (Goods & Service Tax) on the industry, inordinate delay in approvals and licensing conditions.