Guwahati, 5th February: Assam Tourism Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah presented the Assam Tourism (Development and Registration) Bill, 2024, in the Legislative Assembly, aiming to regulate and enhance the state’s tourism sector. Crafted under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, the bill focuses on creating a progressive regulatory framework to benefit all stakeholders.
Key Objectives of the Bill:
- Enhanced Visitor Experience: The bill aims to improve the overall experience for tourists visiting Assam.
- Regulation for Stakeholder Benefit: It marks the first time in Assam’s history that the tourism sector will be regulated for the benefit of all stakeholders.
- Conducive Regulatory Environment: The bill seeks to create a conducive regulatory environment for revenue generation and job creation.
- Clear and Transparent Regulations: Providing clear and transparent regulations for tourism businesses and visitors.
The Bill outlines the registration process for tourism businesses and service providers, including hotels, service apartments, homestays, tour operators, travel agents, restaurants, water sports, adventure sports operations, and more.
Key Aspects of the Registration Process:
- Application for registration to the Authority with prescribed particulars and fees.
- Issuance of duplicate certificates, renewal of certificates, and exhibition of certificates.
- Procedures for changes in the registration certificate, return of the certificate, and removal of names from the register.
Blacklisting Provision:
The Authority may blacklist parties involved in malpractice or offenses under the Act, considering the nature and gravity of the offense.
Adventure Safety Audit Committee:
For each adventure activity (air, land, or water), the government will constitute an Adventure Safety Audit Committee, headed by the District Commissioner, to regulate operations.
Technical Committee:
A Technical Committee will be formed to examine applications for adventure activities, scrutinized by the District Tourism Officer.
Penalties:
The Bill addresses penalties for false statements, lending or transfer without permission, malpractice, obstructing lawful activities, and more.
Powers and Functions:
The Bill defines the powers and functions of the Authority, District Tourism Officers, and other personnel involved in the Act.
The introduction of this Bill signifies Assam’s commitment to streamlining its tourism sector, ensuring transparency, and fostering growth in the industry.