Gujarat announces Its First “Heritage Tourism” Policy

In an important announcement Gujarat government unveils its first “heritage tourism policy” on Friday. This will allow opening up of heritage hotels, museums, banquet halls and restaurants inside historic palaces, forts and buildings. This policy is applicable to historic structures that existed before January 1, 1950 and will allow international and domestic tourists to see and experience historic structures from close quarters.

Under this policy, a new heritage hotel or an existing one will get financial assistance of Rs 5-10 Cr for renovation or expansion. The basic heritage structure should not be altered during this process. There will be also a provision of 20 percent subsidy (maximum of Rs 2 Cr) if the investment is up to Rs 25 Cr. For investment above Rs 25 cr the subsidy would be up to 10 Cr. A financial assistance of Rs 45 Lacks to 1 Cr will be provided to new heritage museum, banquet hall or restaurant or to renovate or restore the existing properties.

This is a very welcome move for the tourism sector specially when the industry is passing through one of the most difficult phases in the recent times due to the nation-wise lock down for Covid 19 pandemic. These five years the Government will give 100 percent relief in Electricity duty, marketing and promotional support and rent assistance in national and international events.

The state government in a statement claimed that the move will boost tourism and create jobs.