TBM Staff - Mumbai The Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) has conveyed its dissatisfaction to the interim budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in February. In spite of various representations on concerns of ease of doing business, GST, TCS etc. the travel industry was largely ignored.
With the new government assuming office at the Centre and Budget 2024 round the corner, TAAI reiterated its earlier request in a detailed communication to the Finance Minister, Tourism & Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu.
Requests made by TAAI include:
1. Infrastructural Focus by the establishment of new airports through private participation. Rapid expansion in rail, road, and waterways (sea and river cruises). Development of high-growth areas like religious circuit, MICE, wellness and hidden gems such as Lakshadweep.
2. Simplifying Visa Requirements & encouraging visa-free entry for tourists visiting India can significantly enhance foreign tourist arrivals.
3. Reducing Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) Costs to pre-pandemic levels would improve air travel accessibility.
4. Rationalisation of GST Rates and GST Credit: hoping for a more favourable GST structure that allows input tax credit for holiday businesses. This could lead to more affordable hotel stays, making accommodations accessible to tourists and encouraging investment in the sector.
5. Strategic Reduction in Income Tax: could catalyse growth in the country’s tourism industry.
6. Abolishment of TCS on Outbound Travel : Collection of TCS on outbound travel is a disincentivization for Indian Travel Agents, Tour Operators and travellers
7. Tax Exemption on Leave Travel Allowance (LTA) would encourage domestic travel and boost tourism within the country.
8. Removal of TDS on Automated Bookings would reduce administrative burdens for travel businesses.
9. Simplification of Licensing Requirements – Ease of Business
10. Industry Status for all stakeholders in Travel, Tourism & Hospitality
The Union Budget 2024 holds significant expectations for India’s travel and tourism sector. India’s travel and tourism sector contributes 5.8% to the GDP and aims for a target of USD 1 trillion by 2047, and TAAI hopes the Budget addresses these priorities.
We are confident that these measures, if implemented, can significantly enhance India’s travel and tourism industry, benefiting both businesses and travellers, TAAI said in a statement.
