Tourism has long been one of the mainstays of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, sustaining livelihoods and promoting the region’s image across the world. Yet, the sector continues to be governed by a set of archaic regulations framed nearly 47 years ago under the Jammu and Kashmir Registration of Tourist Trade Act, 1978. These outdated rules have outlived their utility and remain wholly inadequate to address the modern dynamics of tourism-particularly in an era defined by digital platforms, online travel agencies, and global competition. In July last year, the Government notified the draft Jammu and Kashmir Tourist Trade Rules, 2024, inviting objections and suggestions from stakeholders. The initiative had raised hopes that long-standing bottlenecks-from cumbersome registration procedures to ambiguous grading systems for hotels and travel agents-would finally be resolved. Stakeholders responded promptly, submitting valuable feedback within the stipulated 15 days. However, more than a year later, the draft remains stuck in bureaucratic limbo, with no discussion or follow-up action. The continued silence reflects not just administrative inertia but also an alarming disregard for one of the Union Territory’s most vital economic sectors.
The absence of updated rules has created avoidable hardships for stakeholders at every step-from securing registration and renewals to classification and compliance. The existing framework fails to recognise modern practices such as digital booking systems, e-registration, eco-tourism standards, and new forms of hospitality ventures like homestays and adventure operations. This regulatory vacuum not only stifles ease of doing business but also discourages private investment and innovation, both of which are essential for sustainable growth. At a time when J&K is striving to project itself as a premier global tourist destination, clinging to decades-old regulations sends the wrong signal. Tourism policies must evolve in tandem with market realities, technology, and visitor expectations.
Once finalized, the draft rules can provide a robust foundation for a transparent, efficient, and investor-friendly tourism ecosystem-one that protects tourists, empowers operators, and ensures accountability. The Government must, therefore, act decisively to end the current status quo. The suggestions received from stakeholders deserve immediate consideration, and the final rules should be notified without further delay. Modern challenges require modern solutions, and a vibrant tourism sector demands nothing less.
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