Srinagar: The Kashmir Chapter of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) has called for the creation of a regulated and ethical tourism ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir, highlighting concerns over unregistered and illegal tourism operators affecting the sector’s sustainability.
A delegation from PHDCCI Kashmir, led by Himayoun Wani, Co-Chairman, PHDCCI Kashmir, and Nasir Shah, Convenor of the Tourism Committee, held a strategic meeting with Parvez Raina, JKAS, Additional Commissioner, Sales Tax Kashmir, to discuss key challenges confronting the region’s tourism industry.
During the meeting, the delegation presented a detailed account of issues faced by legitimate and registered tourism businesses. A major concern raised was the growing presence of unregistered tour operators and virtual tourist handlers operating outside the legal and regulatory framework. According to the delegation, these entities evade taxes and bypass compliance norms, creating unfair competition for registered businesses while also posing risks to tourist safety and damaging the reputation of Jammu & Kashmir as a tourism destination.
PHDCCI Kashmir emphasized that registered tour operators shoulder full responsibility for guest safety, documentation, service quality, and tax compliance, including GST obligations. The delegation stressed the need for coordinated action by all relevant authorities, including the Tourism Department, taxation authorities, and enforcement agencies, to protect and promote compliant businesses in a professional and structured manner.
Responding to the concerns, Sales Tax authorities, represented by Parvez Raina, assured full support to organized and legitimate tour operators. Acknowledging the seriousness of the issue, the authorities expressed their commitment to regulating the tourism ecosystem in close coordination with the Tourism Department.
The authorities noted that stronger regulation is essential to bring unregistered operators under accountability, ensure tax compliance, and safeguard both tourists and the credibility of the tourism sector. The collaborative approach is expected to contribute to a more transparent, responsible, and professionally managed tourism environment in Jammu & Kashmir.
Speaking on the occasion, Himayoun Wani said that the assurance from the Sales Tax Department marks an important step towards establishing a fair and regulated tourism market, benefiting compliant businesses, strengthening state revenue, and maintaining high standards of hospitality and safety.
Nasir Shah added that addressing the issue of unregistered, fly-by-night operators is critical for the long-term health of the tourism economy. He welcomed the authorities’ willingness to work alongside industry stakeholders to create an environment where responsible and ethical tourism businesses can thrive.
