Empowering Tourism in Uttar Pradesh: Insights into the 2022 Policy Framework
A New Era for Tourism in Uttar Pradesh: Highlights of the 2022 Policy Initiatives
The Uttar Pradesh government has implemented a series of comprehensive policies and schemes aimed at enhancing the tourism industry within the state. The most notable among these is the UP-Tourism Policy 2022, which builds upon previous frameworks to attract investments, promote sustainable tourism, and develop infrastructure.
Key Features of UP Tourism Policy 2022:
- Capital Investment Subsidy A tiered subsidy structure is established based on the amount of eligible capital investment (ECI):
- 25% subsidy for investments between ₹10 lakhs and ₹10 crores, capped at ₹2 crores.
- 20% subsidy for investments up to ₹50 crores, capped at ₹7.5 crores.
- 15% subsidy for investments up to ₹200 crores, capped at ₹20 crores.
- 10% subsidy for investments above ₹500 crores, capped at ₹40 crores.
- An additional 5% subsidy is available for projects in underdeveloped areas, women entrepreneurs, and SC/ST/Backward classes.
- Interest Subsidy: A 5% interest subsidy on bank loans up to ₹5 crores for a period of five years.
- Industry Status for Hotels and Resorts: Hotels and resorts are granted industry status, resulting in reduced rates for property tax, water, and electricity. This includes a 100% stamp duty exemption on the first transaction and various other financial incentives aimed at encouraging development.
- Support for Responsible Tourism:
- The policy includes provisions such as:
- 75% reimbursement for energy audits.
- 50% reimbursement on green certification fees.
- Financial assistance for implementing ICT solutions in tourism.
- Promotion of Thematic Tourism Circuits: of specific circuits like the Ramayana Circuit, which focuses on religious sites associated with Lord Ram, including Ayodhya and Chitrakoot. This initiative aims to enhance cultural tourism by promoting historical and religious significance.
- Marketing and Promotion Assistance: Financial support is provided for marketing activities, including 50% reimbursement of space rent for national and international events.
- Youth Engagement Initiatives: A one-time grant of ₹10,000 is available to youth clubs within government educational institutions to foster tourism-related activities.
- Special Incentives for Heritage Hotels: Heritage hotels receive various incentives such as capital cost subsidies without disturbing architectural integrity and exemptions from excise license fees.
Infrastructure Development Initiatives-
The state government is also investing in infrastructure projects that support the growth of retail e-commerce:
- Greater Noida Expressway Development: This area is being developed as a retail powerhouse, enhancing connectivity and accessibility for e-commerce operations.
- Logistics Parks: The Uttar Pradesh Multi-Modal Logistics Park Policy aims to create efficient logistics solutions that are crucial for e-commerce businesses.
Goals and Objectives:
The overarching goals of the UP-Tourism Policy include:
- Transforming Uttar Pradesh into a preferred global tourism destination.
- Attracting an annual investment target of ₹5,000 crores.
- Generating substantial employment opportunities within the sector.
- Enhancing the quality-of-service facilities across the state to improve visitor experiences.
The UP Tourism Policy 2022 represents a strategic effort by the state government to revitalize the tourism sector through targeted subsidies, infrastructure development, and thematic promotion. By focusing on responsible tourism practices and enhancing cultural heritage offerings, Uttar Pradesh aims to position itself as a leading destination in India's vibrant tourism landscape.