Don’t charge commercial rates from homestays: Association

Tribune News Service

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Shimla, August 3
The BnB and Homestay Association has opposed the state government’s proposed policy to charge commercial rates for electricity, water supply and garbage collection from BnB and homestay operators in Himachal Pradesh.
A delegation of the association had also met the Director of Tourism Mansi Sahay on the matter. The association said if the commercial rates were implemented, thousands of such establishments in the state would be forced to shut down, leading to widespread unemployment. In such a scenario, members of the association may be compelled to protest against the policy.
A delegation of the association members said the “Incredible India” campaign by the Central Government and the state’s homestay policy were intended at promoting local tourism and providing employment opportunities to locals, especially rural women.
“The goal was also to offer tourists a homely environment away from home and introduce them to local cuisine and culture, deviating from the traditional hotel culture in rural and urban areas. Both the Central and state governments, as well as the Himachal Pradesh High Court, recognise these establishments as domestic rather than commercial. The High Court has clearly stated that these establishments cannot be classified as commercial entities,” they said. They also called for a uniform policy in the state regarding BnBs and homestays in urban and rural areas, in line with the “Incredible India” policy.
They also urged the state government to include BNBs and homestays in its national promotional campaigns. “To enhance the quality of services provided by these establishments, the Tourism Department should organise training workshops for operators,” they added.
Additionally, the association has demanded strict action against unauthorised hotels, BnBs and homestays operating in the state.

Not commercial entities
Even the Himachal Pradesh High Court has clearly stated that BnBs and homestays cannot be classified as commercial entities. — BnB and Homestay Association