e-Visa facility to boost inbound tourism by 15 per cent: Madhavan Menon, Thomas Cook India

MUMBAI: The government’s decision to introduce the electronic visa facility (e-Visa) will give a much needed boost to inbound travel in India and result in at least 15 per cent more tourist arrivals.

In an e-mail interview, Madhavan Menon, managing director of travel firm Thomas Cook IndiaBSE 0.19 %, says that any delay in implementation of the facility may yield results only in the next tourist season, starting November.

1. How will e-Visa or electronic travel authorization boost inbound tourism in India?

Introduction of electronic travel authorization (ETA) is indeed welcomed as it is vital towards building critical mass-momentum and infusing much-needed demand into the under-leveraged inbound sector.

Destination India has tremendous latent potential, which the authorization will help tap. As per a joint study by UNWTO and WTTC in 2012, India will benefit with an additional six million travelers and 1.8 million new jobs over a period of three years by easing visa restrictions, thus significantly boosting the economy. 

It will also drive success for businesses connected directly or indirectly with the tourism industry.

Implementing the ETA for multiple entry visas with longer duration stays will increase its efficiency and appeal.

2. While the order has been passed by the government when is the e-Visa facility expected to be implemented?

As per current industry dialogues, the e-visa facility is slated to be implemented this year.

3. Will a delay in implementation of this facility affect the inbound tourism potential in the country?

Enforcing the ETA before the next tourism season, which starts in November, will have a positive impact on inbound traffic and make India a more viable destination.

Despite the inbound market operating with planning windows of at least one to two years prior season, we anticipate that ETA implementation (before the upcoming tourist season) will result in a clear jump of at least 15%, and this is only the start.

However, a delay in implementation may lead to push back of the positive results of such a facility into the next season.

There are also concerns about biometrics being included in the E-visa process.

4. What are the challenges facing the travel and tourism industry?

Given that the travel and tourism industry is one of the key employers and contributors to the exchequer, the industry is truly handicapped today.

Be it multiple taxation or varying tax levels imposed by state governments, the inbound business into India is rendered both expensive and challenging.

5. Which are the major areas in tourism where government intervention is needed, in order to improve tourism scenario in the country?

There is a need for more government initiatives and relaxed taxation policies on products and services. Combating negative publicity like hygiene, safety and security will be critical for Incredible India’s image.

India has been known to have extremely stringent and restrictive visa regulations and this proposed policy amendment comes as a welcome and positive change.

Additionally, to cater to a growing and varied inbound tourist segment, there should be provisions for adequate, multi-lingual and skilled manpower at entry points into the country to suitably aid them.

 

e-Visa facility to boost inbound tourism by 15 per cent: Madhavan Menon, Thomas Cook India