Delhi, 23 December 2024: The Indian Association of Amusement Parks and Industries (IAAPI) held a landmark meeting with the Honorable Minister for Tourism and Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in Delhi.
Introduction and Sector Overview
The meeting began with the Honorable Minister engaging in candid introductions with major stakeholders of India’s amusement industry. This set the tone for an open and constructive discussion.
Mr. Shrikant Goenka, IAAPI Chairman, provided an insightful overview of the sector. He emphasized the industry’s immense potential to elevate entertainment standards in India and its role as a significant driver of tourism for both domestic and international visitors.
Addressing Industry Challenges
IAAPI representatives presented a range of pressing issues:
- High land acquisition costs
- Elevated GST rates
- Heavy import duties
- Challenges posed by BIS standards on imported machinery
- Lack of inclusion in the government’s tourism marketing initiatives
The Honorable Minister acknowledged these concerns and expressed his commitment to addressing them strategically.
Call for Policy Support
A key highlight of the discussion was the exploration of granting “industry” and “infrastructure” status to the amusement sector. Such recognition would encourage greater investment and growth. The Honorable Minister invited IAAPI to submit a formal representation to the Ministry of Tourism, signaling the government’s intent to collaborate on developing a comprehensive policy framework for the amusement sector.
Collaborative Vision
The meeting was hailed as a pivotal milestone, symbolizing the beginning of a strategic partnership between IAAPI and the Ministry of Tourism. This collaboration aims to overcome challenges and position India as a global hub for amusement and leisure.
Participants
Prominent attendees included Mr. Ankur Maheshwary, IAAPI First Vice Chairman; Mr. Prashant Kanoria, Second Vice Chairman; IAAPI founder members; board members; and other key stakeholders of the amusement industry.
For further information:
IAAPI Secretariat
Website: www.iaapi.org
Contact: info@iaapi.org
