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HOSPITALITY BIZ n JANUARY, 2025WWW.HOSPITALITYBIZINDIA.COMGM SPEAK 11significantly reduced travel time and ensures yearround connectivity.%u201d%u201cMICE is a crucial component of our business,%u201d Makroo explains, emphasizing the significance of a balanced segment mix for a property%u2019s success. %u201cTawang holds immense potential as an exotic destination for corporate retreats and wedding planners. With the ongoing infrastructure development, Tawang is rapidly becoming a top choice for such events, and I%u2019m confident it will emerge as one of the most sought-after destinations for MICE in the near future.%u201dHe adds, %u201cThe combination of stunning landscapes, cultural richness, and the exclusivity of Tawang offers an unmatched setting for both business and leisure events. We are already seeing an increasing interest from organizations and planners looking for something truly unique.%u201dUnderstanding the challenges of road connectivity and weather, the property has gone the extra mile to ensure a seamless travel experience. %u201cWe offer transport assistance, including reliable pick-up and drop-off services, and partner with local drivers who understand the terrain,%u201d Makroo shares. %u201cOur weather-resilient infrastructure ensures guests are comfortable regardless of external conditions.%u201dHe reveals a unique practice, %u201cWe maintain real-time communication with our guests throughout their journey, providing constant support until they safely arrive at their destination. This personalized service underscores our commitment to guest safety and satisfaction.%u201dMakroo is enthusiastic about the potential for tourism in the region. %u201cArunachal Pradesh is a treasure trove of pristine landscapes, cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife. It offers an off-thebeaten-path experience that appeals to modern travelers seeking authenticity and tranquillity.%u201dHe sees Vivanta Tawang playing a pivotal role in this growth. %u201cBy providing world-class services, we%u2019re elevating the experience for travelers and making the region more accessible and appealing. Our presence also inspires confidence among domestic and international tourists, encouraging them to explore this untouched paradise.%u201dThe property has also developed eco-friendly travel packages and adventure experiences. %u201cThese initiatives cater to eco-conscious travelers and adventure enthusiasts, positioning Arunachal Pradesh as a key destination for nature and adventure tourism.%u201dMakroo envisions Tawang as a cornerstone of sustainable tourism. %u201cVivanta Tawang will be more than just a hotel; it will be a catalyst for the development of Arunachal Pradesh%u2019s tourism sector. Through infrastructure investments, heritage promotion, and community engagement, we aim to put this region on the global tourism map.%u201d He concludes, %u201cTawang has the potential to become one of the most sought-after destinations for both domestic and international travelers. As the region develops, Vivanta Tawang will continue to set benchmarks in luxury, culture, and sustainability, leaving a lasting legacy in the heart of Northeast India.%u201d%u201cVivanta Tawang is not just a destination%u2014it%u2019s a journey into serenity, adventure, and the untouched beauty of India%u2019s Northeast,%u201d says Makroo. nasmita.mukherjee@saffronsynergies.inNEWS BULLETINHBI Staff | HyderabadThe Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI), the world%u2019s third-largest hospitality association, has welcomed the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Policy 2024-29, lauding it as a visionary move to transform the state%u2019s tourism landscape. By fostering a conducive investment climate, bolstering infrastructure, and promoting sustainability, the policy seeks to elevate Andhra Pradesh as a global tourism hub while ensuring economic growth, cultural preservation, and community empowerment.With the announcement of its transformative Andhra Pradesh Tourism Policy 2024-2029, the State Government has granted %u201cIndustry Status%u201d to the hospitality and tourism sector across all segments, recognising its strategic importance as a key driver of economic growth, employment generation, and regional development. This bold step reaffirms the state%u2019s commitment to positioning Andhra Pradesh as a premier global tourism hub and driving economic growth, employment, and cultural enrichment. The Policy 2024-29 sets ambitious goals with a mission-driven approach.The Vision 2047 focuses on transforming Andhra Pradesh into a global tourism hub, offering world-class spiritual, coastal, ecological, and wellness experiences while prioritising sustainable development. Mission 2029 talks about elevating tourism%u2019s contribution to the state%u2019s Gross Value Added (GVA) from 4.6% to 8% and its share in employment from 12% to 15%. Simultaneously, aiming to attract private investments worth %u20b925,000 crore.The policy emphasizes maximizing tourism potential, by developing seven major hubs and creating 25 circuits spanning across beach tourism, eco-tourism, river cruises, Buddhist heritage, and temple tourism. The policy%u2019s foundation rests on four strategic pillars: Diversified Tourism Offerings; Infrastructure Upgrades; Sustainable Practices; and Robust Governance Frameworks.The Policy offers robust fiscal incentives such as 100% Stamp Duty reimbursement on land purchases or leases for tourism projects, waiver of Land Conversion Charges, and 100% reimbursement of expenses incurred for getting quality certification. It also offers a Capital Subsidy at 25% of the fixed capital investment (FCI) for MSMEs and 10% for Large, Mega, and Ultra Mega Tourism Projects with certain capping.Along with these financial benefits, the policy includes non-financial incentives like a single-window clearance system to speed up approvals and the creation of Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) to manage anchor hubs and thematic circuits. The Policy also emphasises establishing district-level hubs to support investors and track project progress.Reacting to this development, Mr. K. Syama Raju, President of FHRAI, further stated: %u201cAndhra Pradesh has taken a giant leap in Tourism and Hospitality. Recognising tourism as an industry, combined with substantial incentives for private investors and a focus on thematic circuits, will elevate the state%u2019s appeal to tourists. With its emphasis on sustainability and community empowerment, this policy has the potential to create significant economic and employment opportunities. FHRAI is keen to collaborate with the state government to achieve these ambitious goals.%u201d nFHRAI Welcomes Andhra Pradesh%u2019s Tourism Policy 2024-29 as a Transformative Step for Growth