MoT launches web based system for hotel projects
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The Ministry of Tourism (MoT) has launched a web based Public Service Delivery System for Hotel approval and classification.
The move is to bring transparency in granting approvals for hotel projects and classification status of the functioning hotels.
Speaking on the occasion, Union Tourism Minister Dr K Chiranjeevi said that with the help of this system, all applicants seeking hotel project approvals, hotel classification and approvals for other related services will be able to track the progress of their cars online on a real time basis. “By putting this system in place, there will be a pressure on the officers of the Ministry to deliver on time and an increased accountability on their part. Now onwards, all applicants will have to be examined within 15 days from receipt for completeness. Further, the recommendations of Hotel and Restaurants Approval & Classification Committee will be communicated on the spot to the applicant and these recommendations will also be put on web with final decision within 10 days of the inspection.”
The Minister stated that in due course, the MoT would move towards an e-regime and accept e-applications and proposals. Plans are afoot to set up such systems in other spheres of functioning as well, with an objective of ‘one vision one mission’ framework.
Presently, the hotel promoters and owners seek voluntary approval from the MoT, for their projects and classification from one-star to five-star deluxe by submitting applications. These requests are processed for a final decision within 90 days from the receipt of applications.
Industry positive about web based system
Travel industry leaders cutting across all the segments are thrilled at the lead taken by the Ministry of Tourism (MoT) in launching the web based system for approval of hotel projects. Below are the industry reactions.
“This move by the Ministry of Tourism will mean a clear shift from ‘red tape to red carpet’, which was most welcome, as the applicants will not have to go from pillar to post to know the status of the hotel projects.”
Nakul Anand, President of Hotel Association of India
“In my 40 years of experience in the industry, this was perhaps the most innovative step taken by the ministry to improve matters. The heritage hotels located in remote and rural areas will benefit through the web based system.”
Rakesh Mathur, President of Heritage Hotels Association
“The measure will help get the required investment in the hospitality industry to boost the hotel room inventory.”
Vivek Nair, President of The Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Association of India (FHRAI).
“The inclusion of related services in the web based facility would enable even camps and other accommodation to get the benefits of the scheme.”
Anand Kumar, Joint Secretary for the Ministry of Tourism