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JKHARA bats for reforms in tourism sector

President Babar Chowdhary emphasised the need for streamlined procedures to facilitate ease of doing business, thereby reducing the financial burden on hotel and restaurant owners
12:18 AM Jan 04, 2025 IST | GK NEWS SERVICE
JKHARA bats for reforms in tourism sector
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Srinagar, Jan 3: A delegation of Jammu and Kashmir Hotels and Restaurants Association (JKHARA), led by President Babar Chowdhary, met Cabinet Minister Satish Sharma at Srinagar's Civil Secretariat to address critical tourism sector reforms.

The delegation highlighted several operational challenges plaguing the industry, particularly focusing on bureaucratic bottlenecks in licensing procedures. Current regulations require hotel and restaurant owners to undergo time-consuming renewal processes, including obtaining annual No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and affidavits from judicial magistrates.

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President Babar Chowdhary emphasised the need for streamlined procedures to facilitate ease of doing business, thereby reducing the financial burden on hotel and restaurant owners.

"We are particularly concerned about the delays in renewals and the increasing formalities, which are causing unnecessary financial strain. We urge immediate intervention for a quicker and more efficient process," said Chowdhary.

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Minister Sharma, who oversees Food, Civil Supplies, Transport, Science & Technology, and other key portfolios, committed to addressing these concerns. He outlined the government's vision for economic growth, including plans for two IT parks in Srinagar and Jammu aimed at generating employment opportunities for local youth.

Senior Vice President Lateef Ahmad Lone advocated for streamlining registration processes for established hospitality businesses. Junior Vice President Sheikh Imran raised concerns about the monopolistic practices at Srinagar Airport, where high bidding criteria have effectively excluded local businesses from participation. Minister Sharma promised to address this issue with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Airport Authority of India.

Secretary General Ayesha Saleem presented innovative proposals, including the development of affordable tent accommodations at tourist destinations and the creation of an official festival calendar to promote year-round tourism. Minister Sharma expressed support for these initiatives, recognizing their potential to enhance the region's tourism appeal.

The Minister, representing Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's administration, assured the delegation of swift action on their concerns and emphasized the government's commitment to supporting private businesses that generate local employment.

The JKHARA delegation expressed optimism about the meeting's outcomes, viewing it as a significant step toward addressing long-standing industry challenges. They anticipate continued collaboration with the government to enhance Kashmir's tourism infrastructure and create a more business-friendly environment in the region.

 

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