The Federation of Associations in Indian Tourism & Hospitality (FAITH) has expressed disappointment for the Indian travel and tourism industry that LTC funds of government employees are being redirected to buy consumer goods.
Coming on the back of a prolonged lockdown, the industry was looking at festive season holidays boost travel demand when people look to travel to their home state. After almost 8 months of nil to now very limited tourism activity, festive season was one of the few demand drivers that the Indian tourism travel and hospitality industry was looking forward to and the industry was hoping for more tax based stimulus in the hands of all citizens to travel.
Instead redirecting the LTC money of government employees to buy consumer goods would dry up those funds for the travel sector. Additionally, it would also send a vote of no confidence to the tourism travel & hospitality industry which was looking to get back on its feet after ‘Unlock’
Additionally, since this is a 4-year block scheme it will also cut away funds for future travel demand source for the next year when the LTC block ends in 2021. This thus goes against the spirit of domestic tourism push and year 2021 as domestic tourism year being planned by tourism ministry.
It is requested that not only be the LTC funds be restored but also an income tax benefit be introduced for all citizens to get income tax exemption while travelling within India upto ₹1.5 lakhs against GST registered travel agents, hotels tour operators, tourist transporters & restaurants .
Additionally the way states are being extended tax free funds payable over 50 year, the tourism industry which is the most stressed currently and also the most employee intensive be given similar tax free funds on a direct benefit transfer for salaries & operating costs payable over 10 years post COVID.
