Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) is totally disappointed due to a complete ignorance of the travel, tourism and hospitality business in its focus during the Budget. TAAI had expected that the Finance Ministry considers their suggestions for good governance and ease of doing business for trade.
“We expected much more than what was announced. However, we believe the Budget 2021 has focused more on spendings to enable economic growth through infrastructure roads and financial remedies. Travel, tourism and hospitality was completely neglected,” Jyoti Mayal, President TAAI, commented.
She said that the disinvestment in Air India is still on the rocks and is expected to be completed this year. “Clarity on the same is eagerly is awaited by us, the main stakeholder partner hereto,” she added.
For Rail packages over the years, the Budget shall be a advantage since the Plan is to create a ‘future ready’ Railway system by 2030. Passenger Logistics shall have advantage in the circuits and infrastructure.
Further, TAAI had requested extension of LTC for a period of 2 years. “In order to provide relief to employees, it is proposed to provide tax exemption to the amount given to an employee in lieu of LTCsubject to incurring of specified expenditure,” TAAI had proposed.
Jay Bhatia, Vice President, TAAI said that the PPP has to be set forth in a big way along with privatization.