Hotel industry responds to Ministry's call

In the wake of global recession, the Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) has advised its member hotels to slash the room tariffs by 15 to 20 per cent. This move will also portray India as a cheaper destination compared to other South-East Asian countries. The decision is expected to be announced at the World Travel Mart (WTM) which is presently taking place in London. The decision was taken on the suggestion made by Sujit Banerjee, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, Government of India to FHRAI delegates at a meeting held in the first week of November to assess the impact of global meltdown in the tourism sector in India.

FHRAI is in the process of sending a circular to the member hotels requesting them to slash the room tariffs by 15 to 20 per cent. Confirming the same, Dr Sunil Gulati, Honorary Secretary, FHRAI said, “The Ministry of Tourism is helping us in many ways and we should consider their suggestion in order to maintain a cordial relationship. Considering the current market situation, the percentage of inbound tourists has dropped by 15 to 20 per cent.