Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), which represents more than 1,600 operators for inbound tourists, met finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman to discuss key measures that could set the tourism industry on the path of revival. However, the delegation put forward several pending issues, which if resolved can lead to revival of tourism in the country. It was also requested that GST/IGST be fully exempted on the services provided outside India, i.e. in neighbouring countries even if the package includes India tour as this is causing loss of business for the tour operators. As a result of tax exemption, bookings will come to Indian tour operators instead of such bookings going to tour operators based in neighbouring countries.

Source: Mint July 18, 2021 06:22 UTC