The Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI) reached a historic milestone on December 17, 2024, as its delegation met the Honorable Minister of Tourism and Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in Delhi. This pivotal meeting marked a significant step forward in the collaborative efforts to elevate India’s amusement and leisure industry to global prominence.
A Landmark Interaction with Stakeholders
The meeting commenced with an open and candid introduction of the key stakeholders representing India’s thriving amusement sector. Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat demonstrated keen interest and enthusiasm in understanding the sector’s nuances and challenges. The Honorable Minister’s approachable demeanour laid the groundwork for a productive discussion aimed at addressing critical industry concerns.
IAAPI’s Vision and Key Highlights Presented by Leadership
Led by Mr. Shrikant Goenka, IAAPI Chairman, the delegation presented a comprehensive overview of the industry. Mr. Goenka outlined the sector’s vast potential to transform India into a leading global destination for amusement and entertainment. Key points emphasized included:
- The amusement industry’s role as a major contributor to domestic and international tourism.
- Opportunities for creating employment across various skill levels.
- Potential to enhance India’s cultural and recreational appeal.
In his presentation, Mr. Goenka underscored the necessity of fostering a supportive ecosystem to unlock the sector’s full potential.
Addressing Pressing Challenges Faced by the Amusement Sector
During the meeting, the IAAPI delegation highlighted several critical challenges that hinder the growth and development of the amusement industry. These include:
1. High Land Acquisition Costs
Land acquisition poses a significant barrier for amusement park projects, with exorbitant costs limiting expansion and new ventures. The delegation urged the government to explore policies that facilitate affordable land allocation for amusement infrastructure.
2. Elevated GST Rates
The current Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates applicable to amusement services were brought to the Minister’s attention. IAAPI proposed a reduction in GST rates to make amusement experiences more accessible to the broader population.
3. Heavy Import Duties
The industry faces steep import duties on specialized machinery and equipment required for amusement parks. These duties not only increase operational costs but also limit the adoption of cutting-edge global technologies.
4. BIS Standards on Imported Machinery
Bottlenecks caused by Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) regulations on imported equipment were discussed. IAAPI suggested streamlining these standards to ensure quality compliance without stifling innovation.
5. Inclusion in Tourism Marketing Collateral
The delegation advocated for integrating amusement parks into the government’s tourism marketing initiatives, emphasizing their appeal to both domestic and international travellers.
The Call for Industry and Infrastructure Status
A key agenda item during the discussion was the industry’s request for “industry” and “infrastructure” status. The delegation explained that such recognition would:
- Attract greater investments from domestic and international players.
- Facilitate access to financial incentives and subsidies.
- Accelerate the growth of the amusement sector, aligning it with national tourism goals.
Ministerial Support and Strategic Outcomes
The Honorable Minister, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, acknowledged the challenges presented and assured the delegation of the government’s commitment to supporting the amusement sector. In a groundbreaking move, the Minister invited IAAPI to submit a formal representation outlining the sector’s requirements and proposed solutions. This document will serve as a foundation for developing a comprehensive policy framework for the amusement industry.
Shri Shekhawat also emphasized the importance of a long-term vision for the sector, encouraging collaboration between IAAPI and the Ministry of Tourism to create sustainable growth strategies.
Collaborative Milestone for the Future of Amusement in India
This landmark meeting is expected to herald a new era of collaboration between the government and the amusement industry. The shared vision includes:
- Transforming India into a global hub for amusement and leisure tourism.
- Creating an enabling environment for new investments and innovation.
- Enhancing the quality and safety of amusement experiences for visitors.
The dialogue opened avenues for regular communication and partnerships between IAAPI and government agencies, ensuring the sector’s continuous development.
Prominent Attendees and Their Contributions
The meeting was attended by several prominent IAAPI representatives, including:
- Mr. Ankur Maheshwary, IAAPI’s First Vice Chairman, contributed insights on policy advocacy.
- Mr. Prashant Kanoria, IAAPI’s Second Vice Chairman, highlighted the operational challenges faced by amusement operators.
- Founding members, board members, and other key stakeholders of the amusement industry.
The diverse representation ensured that all aspects of the industry were comprehensively addressed during the discussion.
Conclusion: A Step Towards a Thriving Amusement Industry
The meeting between IAAPI and the Honorable Minister, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, signifies a pivotal moment for the amusement sector in India. The government’s willingness to engage with industry leaders and address their concerns reflects a promising future for the sector. With a collaborative approach, India’s amusement industry is poised to achieve unprecedented growth and global recognition.
For stakeholders and enthusiasts, this meeting represents a beacon of hope and a commitment to transforming India’s amusement landscape into a world-class destination.
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