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By Author
Published on November 16, 2023
In a landmark decision aimed at rejuvenating its tourism landscape and addressing employment challenges, the Bengal Cabinet has approved a proposal to confer industry status on the hospitality sector. This move, initiated by the state’s Tourism Department, is set to catalyze economic growth and revitalize Bengal’s tourism industry.
Key Benefits of the New Status
Electricity Bill Savings: Hotels in Bengal can now anticipate substantial savings on electricity costs, thanks to a shift to industrial power tariff rates. Estimates indicate potential savings of up to Rs 3 per unit, a significant relief given that electricity is often the second-largest expense for hotels.
Reduced Electricity Duty: With the new industry status, the hospitality sector will benefit from lower electricity duty, although the precise financial impact is yet to be fully quantified.
Lower Water Supply Costs: Hotels, which previously paid commercial rates for water, will now be charged at the more affordable industrial rates, further reducing operational expenses.
Decrease in License Fees and Taxes: The sector can also expect a reduction in various license fees and taxes, including property tax, easing the financial strain on hotel operators.
Enhanced Floor-Area Ratio (FAR): The improved FAR will allow for more extensive construction on given land parcels, likely
attracting more investors to develop hotels and related tourism facilities.
Sudesh Poddar, President of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of India’s Eastern Chapter, has expressed strong support for the decision, citing it as a long-standing demand. This move is anticipated to draw investors to the state's tourism sector and encourage the expansion of infrastructure.
With an eye on the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and ongoing job scarcity, the Bengal government views this development as a strategic approach to spur job creation. Investment in the hospitality sector is seen as a key driver for generating employment opportunities, considering Bengal’s rich tourism potential.
Tourism currently contributes about 13 percent to Bengal’s GDP, outpacing the national average. In 2022, Bengal welcomed over 1.04 million international tourists and 84.54 million domestic tourists. The industry status for hospitality is expected to further bolster these numbers.
The decision is poised to benefit the state's tourism industry, which employs over 15 lakh people. It also opens the door for major hotel chains to expand their presence in Bengal, enriching the state’s tourism offerings. Samrat Sanyal, General Secretary of the Himalayan Hospitality & Tourism Development Network, praised the decision for its potential to elevate the tourism sector.
The Bengal Cabinet's decision to grant industry status to the hospitality sector marks a significant step forward in enhancing the state's tourism and hospitality landscape. This move is expected to bring about a wave of positive changes, including increased investment, job creation, and overall economic upliftment in the region.
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By Nishang Narayan
Published on February 16, 2025
The Board of Directors of Avadh Sugar & Energy Limited (ASEL) (BSE: 540649 / NSE: AVADHSUGAR) and Magadh Sugar & Energy Limited (MSEL) (BSE: 540650 / NSE: MAGADSUGAR) took on record the unaudited financial results for the quarter and nine months ended December 31, 2024.
Q3FY25:
9MFY25:
“The sugar season 2024-25 has presented a mixed outlook, with challenges such as lower cane yields and lower recovery in key states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Karnataka affecting production. Despite these setbacks, we remain optimistic about long-term growth. However, rising production costs and stagnant ethanol prices call for timely policy adjustments.
At Avadh, we are focused on sustainable expansion, and with the upcoming completion of our crushing enhancement at the Hargaon unit for the 2025-26 season, we expect further value creation.”
“The industry is facing a decline in production due to lower cane availability and recovery, along with a shift toward ethanol. Despite these challenges, our ability to adapt and invest in expansion positions us well for long-term growth.
At Magadh, we are committed to sustainability and are enhancing our crushing capacity and implementing steam-saving measures at our Narkatiaganj unit, which is now operational for the 2024-25 crushing season. With the right policy support, the sugar industry can continue to play a crucial role in India's economy.”
Published on February 7, 2025
Sterling Holiday Resorts Ltd. has announced its strongest quarter yet in Q3 FY25, marking a milestone in the company’s growth trajectory. With 18 consecutive quarters of profitability, Sterling’s performance in Q3 surpassed even its traditionally dominant Q1, thanks to strategic portfolio expansion that strengthened revenue streams beyond peak seasons.
The company reported a 12% YoY income growth, reaching ₹1,389 Mn. EBITDA increased by 14%, with a solid 38.8% EBITDA margin, while EBIT rose 13% YoY.
Sterling’s portfolio now spans 48 locations with 57 resorts, hotels, and retreats in the upper-mid to upper-upscale segments. Strengthening its footprint, the company added three new resorts in Q3:
Maintaining its rapid growth pace, Sterling has launched one resort per month for the past 18 months, with several more in the pipeline.
"Sterling has witnessed its strongest-ever quarter, a testament to our brand's growing preference among customers. A surge in holiday demand, coupled with our aggressive resort expansion, has fueled this success," said Vikram Lalvani, MD & CEO, Sterling Holiday Resorts.
Sterling’s food and beverage division has been another strong performer, recording a 20% YoY growth. The company attributes this to its enhanced dining experiences and a diverse range of culinary offerings across its properties.
Further strengthening its commitment to sustainability, Sterling has introduced Sterling Sankalp, an ESG initiative aimed at responsible tourism. The company has implemented key measures across several resorts, including:
On a year-to-date (YTD) basis, Sterling has achieved a 14% growth in income (₹3,842 Mn) and a 35% EBITDA margin, showcasing its sustained upward trajectory. With an expanding portfolio, a thriving food and beverage sector, and a strong focus on sustainability, Sterling continues to solidify its leadership in the hospitality industry.
Published on February 5, 2025
The Union Budget 2025 has introduced key measures that promise growth across the hospitality, food & beverage, and startup sectors. Industry leaders see these developments as game-changing, driving innovation, infrastructure enhancement, and workforce development.
Mayank Prasad, Founder of Curated Catering by Design, sees the budget as a positive step for the catering and hospitality sector.
"The establishment of the National Institute of Food Technology will drive innovation and skill development in food processing, benefiting the entire ecosystem. The push to enhance tourism by developing 50 key destinations is a welcome move that will directly boost demand for premium catering services. Additionally, government support for hospitality training programs will help bridge the skill gap, ensuring a well-trained workforce for the sector," he said. With these measures, the catering industry is poised to scale, innovate, and contribute significantly to India's evolving culinary landscape.
Rahul Taneja, Head of Operations at Dharana at Shillim, highlighted the transformative impact of the budget on tourism.
"A standout feature is its strong emphasis on the travel and hospitality industry, with well-structured measures to boost both domestic and international tourism. Initiatives like promoting spiritual and medical tourism, along with the Heal in India initiative, will be game-changers," he noted. The budget’s collaboration with the private sector and simplified visa norms aim to position India as a top destination for holistic well-being, integrating Preventative Medicine, Healing Nutrition, Ayurveda, and more. Additionally, investments in skill development within the hospitality sector will enhance service quality, elevating India's global tourism reputation.
Vishal Puri, Co-Founder of Spalba, praised the budget’s steps toward fostering innovation and sustainability."Investments in tourism infrastructure and connectivity enhancements, like the development of greenfield airports and the modified UDAN scheme, should boost domestic and international travel. However, the quality of services at these airports, specifically regarding cancellations, needs to be controlled for these measures to be effective," he pointed out. The inclusion of hotels in the harmonized tourism infrastructure scheme and the ₹1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund are also expected to transform urban tourism experiences. Additionally, startups will benefit from an extended tax holiday, simplified compliance, and increased funding through the ₹10,000 crore Startup India Fund, driving digital innovations and sustainability.
With a strong focus on tourism, catering, and startups, the Union Budget 2025 sets the stage for accelerated growth, making India a more attractive and accessible destination for travelers and entrepreneurs alike.
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