Tourism policy to help PM Modi's Gujarat emerge as vibrant tourist spot

The Gujarat government is wooing investors with a host of incentives under its new tourism policy, which it says will help the state emerge as a "vibrant tourist destination" with focus on eco tourism, water sports, wayside amenities, among others.

"The new tourism policy will position Gujarat as a vibrant tourist destination with an emphasis on improving visitor experience, livelihood linkages, environmental concerns and enhancing investment opportunities.

"Thus, catapulting tourism as one of the most important economic drivers, leading to sustainable development and inclusive growth in the state," Gujarat Tourism Minister Saurabhbhai Patel told reporters here.

Gujarat had recently announced its tourism policy for the state, which will be in effect till March 31, 2020.

Under the new policy, the government will provide investment opportunities in projects in eco tourism, beach tourism and water sports, heritage tourism, international Buddhist circuit, wayside amenities and cafeteria, cleanliness projects and greenfield properties for development.

Gujarat Tourism is planning to encourage public private partnerships in many projects and also taking initiatives like Special Tourist Police and annual recognition through Excellence Awards in Tourism industry.

The new tourism policy provides many incentives and concessions such as capital subsidy, interest subsidy, stamp duty concession, exemption from luxury tax, entertainment tax, electricity duty, as also special package for mega tourism units among others.