3.1Creating an environment conducive for tourism
3.1.1Policy framework to support investors and the industry.
The Government has addressed several policy related issues that were affecting the industry such as, (a) the restoration of a simple tax regime, (b) simplification of licensing procedures, (c) reduction of the high electricity tariffs, (d) unification of the regulatory environment and creating a single authority for tourism promotion, (e) creating opportunities to promote shopping of internationally reputed branded products and entertainment, (f) simplification of the investment approval process by setting up of a “One Stop Shop” for tourism related investments, (g) streamlining the process of alienating government land for tourism development projects, (h) attracting internationally reputed tourist hotels and, above all (i) environmentally friendly, clean-city concept for urban development.
3.1.2Improvements to the regulatory framework
To compete in the international arena, the service standards must match the global expectations.
At the same time it is important to preserve the environment and wildlife and promote clean cities
and townships. It must also be ensured that the maximum benefit of tourism is passed on to the
community and economic growth is supported through domestic value creation. In view of these
requirements, the existing regulations /guidelines have been revisited and modified. Several new
regulations/guidelines have been introduced. Given below are tourism products for which regulations/
guidelines have been revised, taking international best practices also into account.