≡-India’s HAI Partners With Maharashtra’s Tourism Department To Launch Strategic Initiatives Aimed At Accelerating Hotel Industry Growth Across The State – Viral of Today

<> Viral of Today <>
Home » HOTEL NEWS » India’s HAI Partners With Maharashtra’s Tourism Department To Launch Strategic Initiatives Aimed At Accelerating Hotel Industry Growth Across The State Tuesday, June 24, 2025The Hotel Association of India (HAI), a leading organization that represents the Indian hospitality industry, has made significant strides in fostering engagement with state governments to address the challenges and opportunities faced by the sector. In a recent meeting, HAI representatives engaged in a constructive dialogue with Dr. Atul Patne, the Principal Secretary for Tourism in the Government of Maharashtra. The discussions were aimed at advancing the growth of the hospitality industry in the state, with a specific focus on the hotel sector.The HAI delegation was led by Dr. Sanjay Sethi, the Honorary Treasurer and Chairperson of its Maharashtra Chapter, who was accompanied by Mrs. Charulata Sukhija, the Deputy Secretary General. Charulata Sukhija, Deputy Secretary General. The delegation took the opportunity to commend Maharashtra’s tourism policy and vision document, acknowledging the progressive approach adopted by the state in fostering tourism growth. However, the delegation also highlighted several critical issues that the hotel sector continues to face, which were the focal points of the discussion.One of the primary concerns raised during the meeting was the need for the swift implementation of industry-specific electricity tariffs for hotels. Currently, hotels are charged commercial rates for electricity, which are significantly higher than those applied to industries. This issue remains a major challenge for the hospitality sector, particularly since HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) costs constitute a large portion of a hotel’s operational expenses. While Maharashtra was one of the first states in India to offer industry benefits to hotels, the full execution of these policies remains incomplete. HAI proposed that the state expedite the implementation of these tariffs to make hotels more financially efficient, ultimately reducing operational costs.The second major issue discussed was the complexity of the excise licensing framework in Maharashtra. The existing system requires hotels to obtain multiple licenses for various operational areas, such as restaurants, banquet halls, terraces, and outdoor spaces. To simplify this process, HAI recommended the introduction of a ‘One License One Property’ (OLOP) model. Under this model, a unified license would cover all operational areas within a hotel, eliminating the need for separate licenses for each section of the hotel. This streamlined approach would not only reduce administrative burdens but also help mitigate delays in compliance, making it easier for hotel operators to manage their business operations effectively.HAI proposed several improvements to these incentives, including higher capital subsidies, extended SGST (State Goods and Services Tax) refunds, wage-based incentives to promote employment, and increased subsidies to support sustainability initiatives. These measures would encourage long-term investment in the hospitality sector, facilitate the development of sustainable infrastructure, and help unlock tourism potential in less-developed regions of Maharashtra. By improving these fiscal incentives, the state can boost the overall competitiveness of its hotel sector while driving tourism growth in new and emerging destinations.Throughout the meeting, Dr. Patne was receptive to the suggestions put forward by the HAI delegation. He expressed his full support for the hotel industry and reiterated the Maharashtra government’s commitment to addressing the sector’s concerns. Dr. Patne emphasized that tourism is one of the key pillars of the state’s socioeconomic development, and the government is determined to elevate Maharashtra from an “emerging” tourism destination to a “leading” one.The conversation concluded with HAI reaffirming its support for the government’s initiatives to promote the growth and development of the tourism and hospitality sectors. The association stressed the importance of leveraging the full potential of these industries, particularly in terms of generating employment opportunities and contributing to the region’s GDP. HAI also expressed its willingness to continue collaborating with the government to create a favorable environment for hotels, enabling them to thrive and contribute to the state’s broader economic development goals.Overall, the meeting between HAI and Dr. Patne marks a significant step towards addressing the challenges faced by the hotel sector in Maharashtra and laying the groundwork for a more supportive and sustainable future for the industry. The positive dialogue and shared commitment to growth reflect the collective vision for making Maharashtra a global leader in the tourism and hospitality space.

This information will surprise you!

See also

• Read until the end to discover everything.
• Important information you need to know.
• Interesting facts and helpful tips.

Conclusion

Did you enjoy the news? Keep following us daily!