DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION LANDSCAPE OF HOTEL SECTOR - OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF HOTEL & RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION (WESTERN INDIA)
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Oct - Nov 2021
Vol: 3 Issue 3
Pages 44 `20
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF HOTEL & RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION (WESTERN INDIA) FOR PRIVATE CIRCULATION ONLY
DIGITAL
TRANSFORMATION
LANDSCAPE OF
HOTEL SECTOR
October - November 2021 HRA Today 1
2 HRA Today October - November 2021
October - November 2021 HRA Today 3
Oct - Nov 2021
Contents
PRINTER, EDITOR & PUBLISHER
Siji Nair*
sijicn@gmail.com
SECRETARY GENERAL
Mr. Kunal Gujral
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Prasad M.
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
N. Vijayagopalan
MANAGER-MARKETING
Sreekanth K.S.
ASST MANAGER-MARKETING
Sibu Nair
DESIGN
Kiran Mohan
National Representatives
Mail: today.hra@gmail.com
Mumbai : Raveendran
10
Kolkata : Priya Kundu
Chennai : Subramaniam
Bangalore : Hans Injackel
International Representatives
Mail: today.hra@gmail.com
Muscat, Oman : Dr. Sanjaiyan 06 Digital Transformation
Dubai, UAE
Abu Dhabi, UAE
: Binoy Syama Krishna
: Sabari R Nair Landscape of Hotel Sector
London, United Kingdom : Narendra Shah
Zurich, Switzerland
KL, Malaysia
: Johnson Pereira
: Sudarshan 14 Ecotourism and
Singapore
Seattle, USA
: Roshan Fernandez
: Pramod Manjali
Environmental
Kuwait
Doha, Qatar
: Jayashree Ganga Prasad
: Raghesh
Sustainability
Düsseldorf, Germany : Abraham George
Sydney, Australia
Christchurch, New Zealand
: Rakesh Devadas
: Sony Jose 18 Is vegan food
Canada : Shinto Mathew
successfully penetrating
the Indian market?
This issue of HRA Today contains 32+4 pages cover
All information in the HRA Today is derived from sources, which we consider
reliable and a sincere effort is made to report accurate information. It
is passed on to our readers without any responsibility on our part. The
20 Hotel industry recovers
publisher regrets that he cannot accept liability for errors and omissions
contained in this publication, however caused. Similarly, opinions/views
expressed by third parties in abstract and/or in interviews are not necessarily
faster than expected post
shared by HRA Today. However, we wish to advice our readers that one or
more recognised authorities may hold different views than those reported.
Material used in this publication is intended for information purpose only.
Readers are advised to seek specific advice before acting on information
contained in this publication which is provided for general use, and may not
be appropriate for the readers’ particular circumstances.
Covid 2.0: ICRA
Contents of this publication are copyright. No part of HRA Today or any part
24 News
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transmitted in any form without the permission of the publication in writing.
The same rule applies when there is a copyright or the article is taken from
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58 Product Launches
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no responsibility for returning any material solicited or unsolicited nor is he
responsible for material lost or damaged. This publication is not meant to
66 Appointments
be an endorsement of any specific product or services offered. The publisher
reserves the right to refuse, withdraw, amend or otherwise deal with all
advertisements without explanation. All advertisements must comply with
the Indian and International Advertisements Code. The publisher will not be
56 The Last Leaf
liable for any damage or loss caused by delayed publication, error or failure
of an advertisement to appear.
HRA Today monthly is Edited, Printed and Published by Siji Nair,
R M Nivas, TMRA F 6 Pangappara (PO) Thiruvananthapuram Pin
695 581. Published from Thiruvananthapuram, Printed at Akshara
Offset TC 25/3230(1), Vanchiyoor, Thiruvananthapuram 695 035.
Owned by Hotels and Restaurants Association (WI), Editor- Siji
Nair
RNI No. DELENG/2018/76917 * Responsible for selection of news
4 under HRA Act. October - November 2021
Today
the PRB
Mr Sherry Bhatia
President, HRAWI
My Dear Members, FHRAI & HRAWI have launched a
scholarship program for students interested
Greetings in the 71st year of the Hotel and
in pursuing a 3-year B.Sc. in Hospitality
Restaurant Association of Western India!
and Hotel Administration from the FHRAI
Let me begin this message on a positive Institute of Hospitality Management
note. Your Association has become the first (FHRAI-IHM), Greater Noida. Children of
Indian Hospitality Association to be awarded employees of member establishment of
the ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 27001:2013 FHRAI and HRAWI will be offered 50 per
certifications. These internationally cent waiver in the admission, enrolment,
recognized standards ensure organizations tuition and examination fees. Other than for
meet with the needs of members through members, 20 per cent waiver will be offered
an effective Quality Management System to children from the families of hospitality
(QMS) which is the foundation of quality patrons or employees. In solidarity with the
assurance activities and Information Security plights of the workers who lost their jobs
Management System (ISMS) which aims during pandemic, as a special case, the
to protect the confidentiality, integrity and scholarship will be provided to the children
availability of members’ information and data. of hospitality sector employees who were
I congratulate and thank everyone in our working in the member establishments and
office for their efforts towards making this lost their jobs during pandemic, based on a
possible. I also wish to take this opportunity certification by the member establishment
to welcome Mr Kunal Gujral to the HRAWI and the Regional Association. We urge all
family. Mr. Gujral, who comes with over two our members to kindly spread the word and
decades of industry experience, will serve as help aspiring hospitality students to take
HRAWI’s new Secretary General. benefit of this opportunity.
Moving on, after two painful years of Lastly and more recently, the HRAWI has
lockdowns and restrictions, things are looking appealed to the Hon’ble Prime Minster
up for the country and for our industry too. – Shri Narendra Modi ji for urgent relief
As of mid-November, nearly 80 per cent of for restaurants from the recent abnormal
India’s eligible adult population had been increase in the cost of Liquid Petroleum Gas
administered the first dose of COVID-19 (L.P.G). It has become extremely difficult
vaccine while 38 per cent had been fully especially, for standalone restaurants to
vaccinated and the number of new cases is absorb this exponential increase in the
steadily on the decline. We’ve requested the cost. To continue to remain affordable, the
State Govt. to restore the operation timings HRAWI has requested that the rate of tax on
of restaurants as per the license held by LPG for standalone restaurants be reduced
establishments, on all days of the week from to 5 per cent from the current 18 per cent.
Monday through Sunday.
- Sherry Bhatia, President, HRAWI
October - November 2021 HRA Today 5
HOTEL SECTOR 6 HRA Today October - November 2021
DIGITAL
TRANSFORMATION
LANDSCAPE OF
HOTEL SECTOR N.Vijayagopalan
C
urrently, the hoteliers, mid cap and and chatbots. In addition to these tools,
above, are forced to face the digital there are other concepts such as artificial
transformation of their hotels and intelligence and big data that are already on
realize it is here to stay. However, it everyone’s radar, but there could be many
appears that not everyone is ready. In fact, to know what they are or how they are used.
even though the use of technological tools
When we talk about technological
has exploded since the COVID-19 pandemic
advancement in hotel sector, we have to
broke out, many hotels are betting on a
look at two concepts - Digitization and
comprehensive digital transformation.
Hotel Digital Transformation. Digitization is
Among the many changes that the sector turning traditional operational systems into
is experiencing, we have seen how, as a digital ones. Digitization has been around
result of the coronavirus crisis, many hotels for a long time, for example, when a hotel
have implemented contactless solutions goes from paper posters to screens in public
that include apps for guests, online areas this is the digitization of its posters.
check-in, smart upselling, electronic locks,
October - November 2021 HRA Today 7
Hotel digital transformation is the demands. Big data would be the volume of
use and integration of different data collected by the PMS or CRM
When we ponder on these two
technologies in all areas of the hotel, of a large hotel chain. It is very
things, it seems that the hotel
procedures, products, and even the difficult for an independent hotel to
sector is still not betting on a
building itself to improve efficiency generate Big data by itself so it must
transformation that helps them
and guest satisfaction while solving resort to specialized software.
improve retention, loyalty and
current and future problems. Digital
acquisition, or if it does so with a 2. Artificial intelligence in the hotel
transformation can even open up
digitization that improves guest industry is a type of technology that
new opportunities to generate
satisfaction and their personal is automatically capable of thinking
more revenues or increase the
security. and drawing conclusions like
RevPar of your hotel. Digitalization
humans. This technology analyzes
is part of the path towards digital There are a few technologies in
Big Data to identify patterns and
transformation. which hotels across the world
trends among our data.
have been increasingly investing in
We already know that independent
even during the pandemic as they By combining your hotel’s historical
of the COVID19 crisis, in the hotel
want to get on the bandwagon of data with artificial intelligence you
sector there is a clear need for
technological transformation and could know if there is a rising or
digital transformation to be able
not end up being invisible or slaves falling pattern of reservations if, for
to address some of the challenges
of the big online Travel Agencies example, rain is announced, and
that all hotels share. Two of these
(OTAs). more specifically, you could know it
challenges are : (1) increase direct
according to nationality.
bookings or growth of the direct 1. Big data in hotels refers to a
channel and (2) meeting the level large volume of data, ordered as 3. Machine Learning is a type of
of customization that the market well as unordered. An example of Artificial Intelligence that, in addition
8 HRA Today October - November 2021
to thinking like humans, also learns information. ‘Big Data for CEOs and Directors’ by
like humans. Learning in this area Isaas Gonzalez is a good read for
Thanks to hotel business
means that you autonomously beginners as it explains everything
intelligence, revenue managers can
analyze and study new data without you need to know to understand
now predict whether the pick-up will
stopping, thus identifying new Big Data in an easy to understand,
go up or down and make business
patterns. This technology is essential ordered schematic format.
decisions based on this information.
to making predictions.
It is not based solely on historical If hotels want to increase direct
Using the previous example, data or the manager’s own hunch. bookings and reduce the dominance
machine learning would be able of the large OTAS, among many
The long-term digital transformation
to extract new patterns of ups or other things, the hotel digital
of your hotel must have as its
downs from your pick-up if now transformation must help the sector
objective to be able to make
suddenly people change their to answer the following questions in
decisions with real and reliable
reservation behaviors as a result of any scenario:
data. This will augment the hotel’s
some specific factors.
strategic vision. This transformation Observe : What is happening?
4. Business Intelligence (BI) links will mean going from being a hotel
Understand : Why does it happen?
this concept to all the previous ones, that makes decisions based entirely
BI is the practice of transforming on historical data to one who makes Predict : What would happen?
Big Data into usable information. In them based on detailed data-driven
Collaborate : What should the team
other words, it refers to the use of predictions of the future. If you
do?
artificial intelligence and machine do not have access to Business
learning to translate your hotel’s Big Intelligence, you only have one Decide : Which way to go?
Data into reliable and manageable opinion.
October - November 2021 HRA Today 9
Tourism
International Tourism Mart
North East region is endowed
with diverse tourist attractions
International Tourism Mart highlights the tourism potential of the region in the
domestic and international markets
The delegation includes students from across the country as part of a study tour
under Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat
Presentation by State Governments and discussions on several aspects of tourism and
unique tourism products in the North East Region and their potential as part of the Mart
M
inister of State for Tourism, Government of Nagaland Speaking on the second day of the
Tourism & Defence Shri. H Khehovi Yeputhomi, 9th International Tourism Mart in
Shri Ajay Bhatt Secretary Tourism, GoI Shri Arvind Kohima Shri Ajay Bhatt said that
addressed the opening Singh, ADG Tourism, GoI Smt. the North East region is endowed
session of the second day of the Rupinder Brar and other dignitaries with diverse tourist attractions
9th International Tourism Mart for of the Central government and and each State has its own distinct
the North East Region at Kohima, the North Eastern States were also features. The attractions are
Nagaland today. MLA & Advisor present on the occasion. scattered over the entire region
10 HRA Today October - November 2021and are largely located in remote international markets. The coffee
areas within a highly fragile table book on Nagaland was also
environment. These attractions launched on this occasion. The
and the people of the Region event was attended by over 300
constitute rich tourism resources. delegates including government
Shri Bhatt said that North East has officials, industry stakeholders,
a huge potential for adventure and and local participants. The
eco-tourism. event was attended by the
High Commissioner, Brunei
On the second day of the Mart
Darussalam, High Commissioner,
State Tourism Departments of
Malaysia, Ambassador Extra
Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh,
Ordinary, Republic of the Union
Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya,
of Myanmar, Ambassador, The
Mizoram, Sikkim, and Tripura gave
Socialist Republic of Vietnam,
presentations on their tourism
amongst others attending
potential and products. After that
dignitaries and diplomats.
discussions on several aspects
Other high-ranking officials
of tourism and unique tourism
from participating Ministries/
products started and experts
Government bodies are also
highlighted the Rafting, Trekking
going to be part of the event.
and Road Expeditions, Potential
In line with the Prime Minister’s
of Fairs and Festivals for Tourism
vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha
in NER, and Potential of Food and
Bharat’, the delegation also
Wine Tourism in North East.
includes students from across
The objective of the event is to the country who, as part of a
highlight the tourism potential of study tour, will be interacting
the region in the domestic and with local students and
October - November 2021 HRA Today 11immersing themselves in the region’s
rich heritage and culture.
The event has been planned and
scheduled to facilitate interaction
“While we saw between buyers, sellers, media,
a demand for government agencies, and other
stakeholders. Around 50 buyers
such homestays from different regions of the country
just before the participated in the Mart and engaged
in one-on-one meetings with 75
pandemic, now it sellers from the North East Region.
is through the roof. This will enable the tourism product
We are tailoring suppliers from the region to reach
out to domestic buyers, to promote
our promotional tourism. Domestic Buyers will be
campaigns engaging in business-to-business
meetings with sellers from the North
to promote Eastern Region as well.
homestays. Tourists To further enrich the experience of
don’t want big the participants, the Ministry has
organized a visit to Kisama Heritage
hotels anymore. Village, Kisama War Museum and
They want big open Morungs, Khonoma Village, and
Kohima World War II War Cemetery.
spaces, personalized The visiting delegation will be
care, and want familiarised with the local community,
local art and culture, and the rich
to experience the heritage of Nagaland.
local flavor. We are The International Tourism Marts
also promoting are organized in the North Eastern
States on a rotation basis. Nagaland
staycations, is hosting this Mart for the first time.
Homestays have The earlier editions of this mart have
been held in Guwahati (Assam),
emerged as a very Tawang (Arunachal Pradesh), Shillong
strong vertical and (Meghalaya), Gangtok (Sikkim),
Agartala (Tripura), and Imphal
we are focused on (Manipur).
it. In February, we
held a workshop
on homestays in
Darjeeling where
500 owners had
registered. As many
as 725 came for the
workshop ”
Rupinder Brar
Additional Director
General in the
Tourism Ministry
12 HRA Today October - November 2021October - November 2021 HRA Today 13
ECOTOURISM 14 HRA Today October - November 2021
ECOTOURISM AND
ENVIRONMENTAL
SUSTAINABILITY
V.R. Nair
E
cotourism is a new approach in tourism, which has
gained grounds in the recent times. Ecotourism refers
to travel to natural areas to appreciate the cultural
and natural history of the environment, taking care
not to disturb the integrity of the ecosystem, while creating
economic opportunities that make conservation and
protection of natural resources advantageous to the local
people. Fundamentally, ecotourism means making as little
environmental impact as possible and helping to sustain the
indigenous populace, thereby encouraging the preservation
of wildlife and habitats when visiting a place.
According to The International Ecotourism Society (TIES),
ecotourism can be defined as “responsible travel to natural
areas that conserve the environment, sustains the well-
being of the local people, and involves interpretation and
education”.
October - November 2021 HRA Today 15Ecotourism is derived from two conditions - ‘Global Warming’ and The continuos denuding of
words - ‘Ecosystem’ and ‘Tourism’. ‘Greenhouse Effects’, both of which forest reserves has led to Global
Ecosystem is the system in which will lead to the total destruction Warming and Greenhouse Effects.
we live - the system which include of the Planet Earth. It is now high Fortunately, this has led to some
the earth, the water, the sky and time, we should (the entire Human realisation, and now the world
ofcourse the living and the non- Community) start our bit of job has awakened for new beginnings
living objects in all these systems. to save our Earth from complete about human responsibility towards
It is a dynamic complex of plant, destruction. It is now every man’s nature.
animal and micro-organism duty to do as much possible to
communities and their non-living save our Planet Earth.
environment interacting as a
Today, there are “Green Laws” of Ecotourism in India
functional unit. But, there is no such
specific and particular spatial unit or conservation, which are making India, the land of varied geography
scale to measure an Ecosystem. people aware of how man and the offers several tourist destinations
environment can live beneficially for that not just de-stress but also
And, tourism means - ‘the practice more time to come and Ecotourism rejuvenate you. There are several
of traveling for pleasure.’ Thus, a is one way to maximise the ways to enjoy Mother Nature in
tourism which contains a visit to an environmental and social benefits most pristine way. The few places
Ecosystem is known as Ecotourism. of tourism, not forgetting the like the Himalayan Region, Kerala,
But, that is not all. Ecotourism economic developments. the northeast India, Andaman
is not only travelling to such and Nicobar Islands and the
Ecosystems, but also conserving Everyone is a stakeholder in the
process and we clearly need to Lakshdweep islands are some of
them. Basically Ecotourism means the places where you can enjoy
- “Tourism involving travel to areas avoid our past shortcomings
in taking care of nature and the treasured wealth of the Mother
of natural or ecological interest,
environment. In India too the Nature. Thenmala in Kerala is the
typically under the guidance of
movement is gathering momentum first planned ecotourism destination
a naturalist, for the purpose of
with more and more travel and in India created to cater to the Eco-
observing wildlife and learning
travel related organisations tourists and nature lovers.
about the environment and at
the same time focus on wildlife addressing the needs of the The Indian topography boasts of
and promotion of understanding ecotourists and promoting an abundant source of flora and
and conservation of the ecotourism in the country. fauna. India has numerous rare
environment.” In short, ecotourism and endangered species in its
can be categorised as a tourism surroundings. The declaration of
programme that is nature based The concern for
and ecologically sustainable.
Ecotourism
This is a conscientious form of
Since ages, nature worship and the
tourism and tourism development,
conservation ethics have been an
which encourages going back to
natural products in every aspect inseparable part of Indian thought
of life and helps preserve nature. and traditions. Traces go back
It is also the key to sustainable to ancient civilisations of India,
Everyone is a
ecological development. Simply when people used to nurture the
put, eco-tourism is tourism with an philosophy of the oneness of life.
ecological conscience. The Indian tradition has always
taught that humankind is a part of
stakeholder in
nature and one should look upon the process and
We and our we clearly need
all creation with the eyes of a love
and respect.
environment It is tragic that since last few to avoid our past
The race for becoming the most decades, the mad quest for the
material end and economical
shortcomings
in taking care
advanced and most developed
state in the world, has led man progress in India and abroad
of nature and
to destruct the natural resource has become identical with the
in our stock and our biosphere. exploitation of nature in all its
Today, most of the underground
and above the ground resources
appearances. Today, the entire
world is facing a deep crisis and is
environment.
are on the verge of finish, resulting in the danger of being doomed.
in abrupt climate, natural disaster The rich forest areas and biological
and more. Now, man is facing diversities have been relentlessly
two very extreme dangerous divested to erect concrete walls.
16 HRA Today October - November 2021several wildlife areas and national following are some Dos and Don’ts n Do not use pollutants such as
parks has encouraged the growth which a responsible traveller needs detergents, in streams or springs
of the wildlife resources, which got to take care. while washing and bathing.
reduced due to the wildlife hunt
n Do not use wood as fuel to cook
by several kings in the past. Today,
food at the campsite.
India has many wildlife sanctuaries Dos
and protection laws. Currently, there n Do not leave cigarettes butts or
are about 80 national parks and 441 n Carry back all non-degradable make open fires in the forests.
sanctuaries in India, which work for litter such as empty bottles, tins,
plastic bags etc. These must n Do not consume aerated
the protection and conservation of
not litter the environment or be drinks, alcohol, drugs or any other
wildlife resource in India.
buried. They must be disposed in intoxicant and throw bottles in the
There are numerous Botanical municipal dustbins only. wild.
and Zoological Gardens in India,
n Observe the sanctity of holy n Do not use Polythene
which are working towards the
sites, temples and local cultures. and plastics which are non-
enhancement of the Ecosystem.
biodegradable and unhealthy for
Poaching has stopped to a n Cut noise pollution. Do not the environment.
large extent. There are severe blare aloud radios, tape recorders
punishments for poachers, hunters or other electronic entertainment Ecotourism is flourishing at a
and illegal traders of animals and equipment in nature resorts, tremendous pace in India. The
trees. Tree plantation is taking sanctuaries and wildlife parks. government of India has formed
place in several places. There are a 13-member community, called
several animal and plant rights n In case temporary toilets are set- Ecotourism Society of India, which
organisations, which fight for the up near campsites, after defecation, focuses on creating awareness
rights of the animals and plants. cover with mud or sand. Make sure about ecotourism and helps in
Numerous organisations and that the spot is at least 30 meters framing guidelines.
NGOs are coming forward to away from the water source.
What we in India can do is to
provide environmental education
promote ecotourism as much
to the common people at the grass
root level. Don’ts as possible. If you ever have an
interaction with tourists, tell them
It’s high time one needs to be n Do not take away flora and how diverse our country is. India
conscious towards the environment fauna in the forms of cuttings, has a lot to offer, especially in
and make sure that his recreational seeds or roots as it is illegal and terms of terms of wildlife, flora and
activities don’t adversely affect the the biodiversity of a region has to fauna, which is why ecotourism is
natural beauty of the place. The be protected at all costs. growing so popular.
October - November 2021 HRA Today 17LIFESTYLE
IS VEGAN FOOD
SUCCESSFULLY
PENETRATING THE
INDIAN MARKET?
N.Vijayagopalan
18 HRA Today October - November 2021T
he word ‘vegan’ was decade, Takia is set to launch a
coined in 1944 by Donald vegan food company called Plant.
Watson, the co-founder
Celebrity couple Ritesh Deshmukh
of the Vegan Society. The
and Genelia D’Souza, too, is
Today, people
term was initially used to describe
launching their vegan initiative
‘non-dairy vegetarians’, the Vegan
Imagine Meats, presumably
have a variety of
Society updated the definition
inspired by the multi-billion dollar
to: “…exclude all forms of animal
success of US giant Beyond Meat.
exploitation…” in 1951.
On screen, powerful documentaries plant-based food
options that are
No longer a novel concept,
such as Cowspiracy, What the
Veganism is evolving from a fringe
Health, Dominion, and most
both healthy and
movement to a mainstream choice
recently, The Game Changers, have
associated with health, ethics, and been inspiring people across the
tasty. And more
eco-sustainability. The meteoric spectrum to adopt a plant-based
rise of plant-based diets around lifestyle. In covering a range of
the world is proof that more than
ever before, we’re living in the age
topics from the atrocities of factory
farming to its damaging effects
and more of them
of Veganism. on climate change, these thought- are now preferring
vegan diet and
How did we get here? A rising provoking films have successfully
educated middle-class, increased converted a niche campaign into a
thus catering to
awareness of global trends, a popular cause. Opinions of these
growing focus on personal and films and all aspects of veganism
this increasing
planetary health, and the appeal of are able to spread rapidly across
a greener, cleaner way of life. social media through Twitter and
Although veganism spans across
Instagram.
number becomes
an important task.
generations and cultures, it’s a The popularity of vegan food has
lifestyle choice led by the youth. been slowly gaining momentum
With veganism skyrocketing in India. Over the last few years,
around the world, India, as a not only have people started
young country with almost half its to appreciate the concept of
population under the age of thirty, veganism but have adopted it in
is keen to follow. their lives too. According to a UN
FAO report, India has the lowest
Instrumental in the rise of rate of meat consumption in the
veganism are influencers who world due to 44 per cent of the 1.3 restaurants are getting increasingly
have tapped the young, tech- billion population being Hindus. ready to cater to vegan customers
savvy generation by increasing According to rough estimates, and the market is ready to take up
awareness of the cause through there were around 500 million the challenge of providing more
social media. Hundreds of vloggers vegetarians in India in 2020 and plant-based food options.
sharing wellness guides, nutritional of these, only one per cent are The vegan customers in India,
advice, and vegan recipes can be strict vegans. So, the total number although small currently, are
followed on YouTube. of vegans in India is around five
growing rapidly. The product
Dr Nandita Shah, Founder of million.
offerings, however, are quite
Sharan, is one of the many Today, people have a variety of limited, especially when customers
nutritionists who have been plant-based food options that are looking for a replacement of
catalysts for the vegan movement are both healthy and tasty. And a meat-based product. Achieving
at home. Athletes like Virat Kohli more and more of them are the same meat-like taste, texture
and actors like Aamir Khan and now preferring vegan diet and and aroma, using only plant-based
Ayesha Takia have also brought thus catering to this increasing ingredients being a difficult task,
awareness of veganism’s health number becomes an important market players are understood to
and performance benefits to task. According to market reports, use innovations to attract more
the masses. Vegan for almost a Indian food producers and meat-eaters into their vegan food.
October - November 2021 HRA Today 19HOTEL INDUSTRY
HOTEL INDUSTRY RECOVERS FASTER
THAN EXPECTED POST COVID 2.0: ICRA
T
Our Bureau
he hotel industry demand seen ARRs return to pre-Covid and sustenance of demand will
has recovered at a sharper levels in Aug-21/Sep-21. Travel depend on efficacy of vaccines
pace post Covid 2.0 during the festive season travel will and a potential third Covid wave.
compared to last year’s act as a key demand booster for The industry is currently cautiously
lockdown, aided by the easing the industry in Q3 FY2022. optimistic.”
of restrictions in Q2 FY2022.
Vinutaa S, assistant vice president Most markets reported over 50%
Partial lockdown as well as travel
and sector head, ICRA Limited, said, occupancy in Jul-21 and Aug-21,
restrictions in many states in April
“While the first few months were the key markets - Jaipur, Goa,
and May 2021 post the onset of
impacted, the industry witnessed Delhi, Mumbai and Hyderabad
Covid 2.0 resulted in the ICRA displayed healthy occupancies
faster-than-expected ramp up
sample of companies reporting whereas Bangalore and Pune
in Q2 FY2021, because of lower
a 56% decline in revenues on a lagged behind. The ARRs in leisure
restrictions, high vaccination pace
QoQ basis, in line with the ratings destinations were above pre-Covid
and pent-up demand, which resulted
agency’s estimates. However, the levels in Jul-21 and Aug-21. Going
in revenge travel. Demand in the
revenues are expected to improve by forward, ARRs will be a function of
last few months has come from
85-90% sequentially in Q2 FY2022. sustenance of demand.
staycations, weddings and travel
Occupancy has picked up, with to driveable leisure destinations, The demand recovery pattern has
the August-21 Pan-India premium and from special purpose groups. different from other crises, with
hotel occupancy at 44-46%. For There is the new trend of biscations properties with affiliated strong
5M FY2022, the same is estimated (which is working from a resort) brands and in the luxury segment
to be 32-34% (up from 13-15% in that is picking up. Business travel standing to benefit, as trust and
5M FY2021), vis-à-vis 46-48% in pickup has been mainly to project safety are paramount. Drive-to
Q4 FY2021. The Pan-India ARRs sites/manufacturing locations from leisure, staycations, social MICE/
are estimated at Rs 3,850-3,950 for specific sectors. The Covid-related weddings and special purpose
5M FY2022 and still remain at a 25- demand which was prevalent April groups are expected to drive
30% discount to pre-Covid levels, mid to June mid, waned from July revenues for hotels for the next one
although some high-end hotels and we are seeing real demand year at least. International traffic
and leisure destinations have even pick up. The situation is evolving, arrivals will take time to pick-up and
20 HRA Today October - November 2021Nevertheless, the situation is still monetization to support capital
evolving and as the estimates are structure improvement going
contingent on timelines tied to the forward. However, debt metrics are
pandemic,” added Vinutaa. expected to return to pre-Covid
levels only over the medium term,
Moratorium and ECLGS provided
while RoCE is expected to remain
the much-needed financial
sub cost-of capital at least for the
support during Covid-19. About
next few years.
70% entities in ICRA’s hospitality
portfolio availed moratorium ICRA continues to have a negative
during the first wave, though it outlook on the Indian hotel
was only 39% of rated debt. Some industry, as the sustenance of
companies also raised funding the demand pickup in the recent
through equity and debt tie-ups months remains to be seen. A
before ECLGS announcement. potential third wave and its impact
The industry has raised about on travel and hotel occupancies
Rs. 660 crore of equity in FY2021 cannot be ruled out. Further, the
and has announced Rs. 3,300 RevPAR is still significantly lower
crore of equity/fund raising than pre-Covid levels. About
plans in FY2022. ICRA expects 63% of ICRA’s ratings are also on
further equity fund raising/asset negative outlook currently.
in the intervening period, demand
will be supported by domestic
travel. Hotels/cities dependent
on business travel/foreign tourist
arrivals (FTAs), will also take
considerable time to recover.
In terms of supply, in the immediate
term, temporary shutdowns are
possible in affected regions, if there
is a third wave. Acquisitions and
industry consolidation are the way
forward, and rebranding in the
midscale and upscale segments
will add to share of organised
supply. Over the medium term, a
part of pre-Covid supply may be
permanently shelved, while there
could be new properties coming up
in leisure destinations.
“The hotel industry is expected
to clock at least 45-50% of pre-
Covid revenues in FY2022. Further
operating profits in the current
fiscal will be aided by improved
operating leverage and sustenance
of some of the cost-optimization
measures undertaken last fiscal.
However, pre-Covid revenues
and profits are likely only by
FY2024. As a result of sustenance
of some cost-saving measures,
the breakeven is expected to
reduce and hotels are likely to
report pre-Covid margins of 85-
90% of revenues going forward.
October - November 2021 HRA Today 21INTERVIEW
INVESTMENT IN TECHNOLOGY
ENHANCING GUEST EXPERIENCE
Amruda Nair is Founder & Director, Araiya Hotels & Resorts. Ms. Nair has a global
perspective on hospitality, backed by her experience with leading international brands.
She is the granddaughter of the late Captain C.P. Krishnan Nair, the iconic businessman
who founded the Leela Group. Amruda Nair shares her views on hotel industry
scenario with HRA Today.
N.Vijayagopalan
What are the major challenges the Indian hotel back to hospitality. This resonates strongly with our guests
industry is facing at this juncture? who are seeking brands that are independent and not
part of the mega consolidation in the industry that they
The hospitality industry continues to struggle with
view as commodification. Our guests love that we are
muted demand for corporate room inventory, delays in
boutique, female-owned, community focused and built on
supply of goods, higher operating costs, restriction on
inclusiveness and transparency.
trading hours and reduced capacities. The resumption
of inbound international tourists and the complete What new trends are getting established in the hotel
re-opening of borders to foreign travel are the critical industry after the pandemic has eased and normalcy
turning points that the industry is looking for. Hotel is back?
room demand is recovering quicker than expected and,
The expectations of guests have changed forever and
as a result, service levels are suffering. While we knew
we are seeing a normalisation of contactless, digital
there would be an erratic recovery curve, prolonged
transactions that are hassle free and allow for more
labour issues have intensified the challenge to meet the
genuine human interactions. The pandemic allowed hotel
expectations of returning guests who expect a return to
brands to connect with their guests through social media
normal, even if it’s not yet economically viable.
and enhance the engagement in future with the use of
data analytics. At Araiya we chose to invest in technology
According to you, what is the emerging landscape of
so that we could leverage our systems to enhance the
hotels in India?
quality of our guests’ stay experience through preference
There has been a clear shift in the willingness of the tracking, personalisation and customisation.
domestic traveler to explore the country and seek new
What is your take on the role of online retail
experiences within a drivable or single flight radius.
companies in the resurgence of the hotel industry?
Indian guests are also showing openness to boutique
properties with unique features or undiscovered We have a lot to learn from online retail companies who
locations. Trust and safety remain the key currency and were adept in bridging the gap between physical and
brands that establish clear communication through digital and transformed the buying experience through
digital channels will have a clear advantage. data analytics and personalisation. Using past purchases
to design future offers to guests is something hotels
Launching a new, independent brand just before the
are only beginning to tap into. The same goes for de-
pandemic hit was a big leap but one that has been well
packaging the offerings beyond bed and breakfast to
received as it is exactly what guests today are looking
include other enhancements such as excursions, special
for. Araiya which means eternal beauty to me means
meals, spa and sports features based on preferences.
constant evolution - the ability to adapt, change and
stay relevant. The only way to achieve this agility is What are the strategies of your brand to augment
to be young and fearless. As a new brand we have the business in the post pandemic scenario?
ability to make quick decisions and respond to the
The pandemic allowed us to engage further, build trust
constantly evolving environment.
and establish more regular and relevant communication
Our vision today is to bring the joy of travel and discovery channels with our guests. Our investment in technology
22 HRA Today October - November 2021has not only helped drive direct bookings but also enhanced the guests’ stay experience. We have been able to incorporate contactless and self-service technologies into our service offering to provide a more customer-centric experience that replaces administrative convenience with genuine engagement. What is the support that you look forward from the government for a smooth sail ahead? While domestic tourism is booming, the complexity of regulations that change from state to state has made travel expensive and cumbersome hence stifling demand particularly for business travelers. Liquidity remains a key concern for both existing hotels with subdued cash flows as well as projects under development that require fresh funding. As the largest generator of employment in the country, tourism has vast potential to contribute to the economic recovery and the industry has been lobbying for infrastructure status that will encourage investment and growth in the sector. How do you envision the position of your brand five years down the time line? We plan to grow in a sustained manner, focused on expanding in geographies such as Himachal Pradesh, Kerala and Gujarat where we already have a presence. We will also seek new destinations in wellness, spa and activity-led space to leverage our existing portfolio of golf, spa and mountain resorts. We will continue to add more properties under the Araiya flag to appeal to our existing guest database and will also be opening flagship properties under the luxury ‘Essence by Araiya’ and mid scale ‘Soul by Araiya’ brands to expand our offering in multiple segments and markets. October - November 2021 HRA Today 23
24 HRA Today October - November 2021
NEW MEMBERS
T he Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India
(HRAWI) continues to expand its membership base across
the western reaches of India. In the recent past, the Association
has added hotels, restaurants, and other affiliates from Goa,
Maharashtra, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh among other
states. The Association’s continued efforts and support for the
hospitality industry in the regions under its ambit have helped
its membership base grow exponentially.
HOTELS 2 Kapila Garden 174, Dhole Patil Rd, next to Ruby hall
Restaurant Clinic Gate, Sangamvadi, Pune - 411001
Sr. No Name of the Address
Establishment 3 Thambbi Veg 15, Runwal Heights, Nirmal Lifestyle
Restaurant Mall, Lal Bahadur Shastri Rd, Salpa Devi
1 Sardar Sarovar Kevadia, Garudeshwar (Taluka), Opp. Pada, Mulund (W) - 400080
Holiday Resorts LLP Kevadiya Railway Station, Narmada,
Gujarat - 393151 4 The Café Bistro Shop No. 5/6 Sumeru Arc, Ghogha Rd,
near Roopani Circle, Bhavnagar, Gujarat
2 Hotel Ginger Highway No. 06, Village Baradiya, - 364001
Dwarka Taluka Okha, Dwarka, Gujarat - 361335
5 Subway Bio Green Acres Bungalows CHS, DIN
3 Mayfair Lake Sector 24 , Atal Nagar , Raipur -492018 Quary Road, Chembeur (E) - 400088
Resort
6 Ruka Luxury 462, AB Nair Rd, Juhu,
4 Grand Vicotria The Panchgani, Plot no 555, Narayan Lodge, Restaurant
Fern Panchgani Mahabaleshwar Road,
412805, 7 Circle of Crust Phoenix Market City, 2nd Floor, Nagar
Road, Viman Nagar, Pune - 411014
5 Silver Estate Resort Tikamgarh, Jhansi Road, Alampura,
Madhya Pradesh 472001 8 Circle of Crust Shop No BG, 8, DC Rd, Magarpatta,
Hadapsar, Pune, Maharashtra 411013
6 Hotel Ranjeet 870/7 Lane No. 10, Bhandarkar Road,
Gymkhana, Pune - 411014 9 Swig Bar & Eatery Shop No. 05, Balewadi High St, Laxman
Restaurant Nagar, Baner, Pune, Maharashtra
7 Radisson Hotel, Plot No - 19, 21 & 27-29, Gold Valley
411045
Resort & Spa Sector D, Tungarli, Lonavla
10 Shahi Haveli 238 A, M. P. Nagar Zonel 1, Bhopal,
8 Singhania Srovar Great Eastern Rd, near AIIMS Hospital,
Restaurant and Madhya Pradesh - 462011
Portico Sarvodaya Nagar, Tatibandh, Raipur,
Bar
Chhattisgarh 492099
9 Binori Hotel Opp. New York tower, near Thaltej ASSOCIATES
Cross Rd, Sarkhej - Gandhinagar Hwy,
Bhaikakanagar, Thaltej, Ahmedabad, Sr. No. Name of the Address
Gujarat 380054 Establishment
10 The Fern Residency JCR Cinema Pvt Ltd, Survey no.612 1 Poona Hoteliers 13, Wilson Garden, Motilal Talera Marg,
Jamnagar Theba Cross Road, Jamnagar Dwarka Association Opp. Pune Railway Station, Pune -
Bypass Road, Gujarat - 361120 411001
2 Broadway 8th Floor, Muttha Chamber II, Senapati
RESTAURANTS Integrated Park Bapat Road, Pune - 411016
Sr. No Name of the Address LLP
Establishment
3 Spartan 111, New Tejpal Industrial Estate,
1 Feelings Little Italy Shop No. 21, Balewadi High Street Park, Engineering Andheri - Kurla Rd, Saki Naka, Mumbai
Foods LLP Near Express Highway, Pune - 411045 Industries Pvt. Ltd. -
October - November 2021 HRA Today 25NEWS
FSSAI introduces new logo for ‘vegan’
The Food Safety and Standards Authority (FSSAI) of India has
introduced a new logo to identify vegan products in the country
on Tuesday. Green in colour, it has a V inscribed in the middle
with a small plant on top of it and Vegan written at the bottom.
The food regulator informed that the design resonates with
the current logo, which is a green and brown dot in the middle
of a square, respectively, for vegetarian and non-vegetarian
products. FSSAI.
The logo has been developed by Kruti Manish Rathore of Mount
Caramel College, Bangalore, pursuing Masters in Food Science
and Nutrition, under the guidance of Sangeeta Pandey.
Fortune Park Hotels to add five
hotels in India by December 2022
Fortune Park Hotels, a member of ITC’s hotel group, will be
opening five properties with over 375 rooms in India by the end
of 2022, as part of its robust expansion plans in the country.
The company has 38 operating hotels with around 2,900 rooms
across 34 cities of India.
Apart from opening 5 hotels with over 375 rooms across 4 cities
of India from our active pipeline by the end of December 2022,
they are understood to be also in advanced negotiations for
a few more projects, some of which are anticipated to open
before the end of next year. These five hotels will be -- Fortune
Resort Benaulim Goa, Fortune Park in Hoshiarpur (Punjab),
Fortune Park in Tirupur (Tamil Nadu), Fortune Select in Goa and
a Fortune Inn in Haldwani (Uttarakhand), he added. It has clearly
defined sub-brands -- Fortune Select, Fortune Park, Fortune
Inn and Fortune Resort -- under which the hotels are being
operated by the chain.
Lords Hotels and Resorts expands
its footprints in Panchgani
Lords Hotels and Resorts announced the sign-up of its forty third hotel at
Panchgani, a serene hill station near Mahableshwar. Deriving its name from
the five hills surrounding it, Panchgani is known for offering breathtaking
views of wonderful valleys, forts, hills and dams. This hotel is situated in the
best part of the city, with easy access to the major sightseeing attractions and
rooms overlooking the infinity pool and the valley beyond it. It will offer forty
well-appointed rooms & suites with a fascinating view of the valley and also
feature a conference hall, game zone, infinity pool and multi-cuisine restaurant.
Pushpendra Bansal, COO, Lords Hotels and Resorts stated “We are delighted to
mark our presence in one of the most popular hill stations of Maharashtra and
the strawberry garden of India. We aim to deliver highest level of comfort to our
esteemed guests with our True Value services”. Rishi Puri, Sr. Vice President, Lords
Hotels and Resorts further added “This hotel will also be a perfect destination
for work and pleasure. This would surely be a Strawberry (Berry) on the cake on
existing portfolio of Lords Hotels and be a boutique unit” he jested in lighter vein.
26 HRA Today October - November 2021India’s Hotel Industry Continues
to Regain Occupancy
have seen a different trend in where
the country is regaining occupancy.
Whereas India’s first recovery
earlier this year was concentrated
in leisure destinations, such as Goa,
heavily populated markets such as
New Delhi and Mumbai have seen
improvement in this latest rebound.”
Mumbai’s daily occupancy reached
as high as 77.9% on 26 June. New
Delhi occupancy improved to as
high as 79.7% on 17 July. Those were
each market’s highest daily levels in
2021.
STR provides premium data
benchmarking, analytics and
marketplace insights for global
hospitality sectors. Founded in
1985, STR maintains a presence
in 15 countries with a corporate
After a rapid decline due to a second of 50.5% on 26 June. In July, the
North American headquarters
COVID-19 wave, India’s hotel industry country took another step forward
in Hendersonville, Tennessee,
has seen a continued increase in with most days in the 40-60% range
an international headquarters
occupancy due to the progressive and a peak of 63.2% on 17 July.
in London, and an Asia Pacific
approach to vaccinations in key
“The progressive approach to headquarters in Singapore. STR
markets across the country, according
vaccinations has led to an increase in was acquired in October 2019 by
to preliminary data and analysis from
travelers and hotel demand—leisure CoStar Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: CSGP),
STR.
demand continues to drive this the leading provider of commercial
India’s daily occupancy sat in the 20- growth,” said Vidhi Godiawala, STR’s real estate information, analytics
30% range in early June but improved business development manager for and online marketplaces. For more
by the end of the month with several Central and South Asia. “Beyond information, please visit str.com and
days closer to 35% and an outlier the noticeable improvement, we costargroup.com.
The Leela Palaces, Hotels And Resorts announced
the opening of The Leela Gandhinagar
The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Located near the Dandi Kutir complex. The hotel houses 318
Resorts owned by Brookfield Asset museum, The Leela Gandhinagar spacious rooms and suites, with
Management-sponsored private real provides spectacular views of the contemporary interiors seamlessly
estate fund, announced the opening Central Vista. The hotel’s lavish blending grandeur, comfort, and
of The Leela Gandhinagar, in Gujarat’s interiors draw influence from the modern sophistication. The bevy of
capital city. The hotel is built on the rich archaeological and architectural suites also consists of Royal and 4
airspace of a conventional railway antiquity of Gujarat. The flooring is Presidential Suites each offering a
station, 22 meters above ground and inspired by the Adalaj Stepwell and distinct magnitude of unparalleled
is the tallest building and the largest features elements like the famous opulence, ultra-modern facilities,
hotel in the city. The Gandhinagar Tree of Life at Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, and luxurious amenities. The Leela
capital railway station has been traditional glass beadwork, textile Gandhinagar delivers a rich culinary
redeveloped along with the 318 craftsmanship of Bandhej, Ajrakh experience with dining venues
room 5-star hotel atop the tracks, the and Batik, among various other spanning across a host of cuisines
country’s first such project. art inspirations embellishing the served in picturesque environs.
October - November 2021 HRA Today 27Hotel Industry Witnesses Growth in
Revenue Per Room in second quarter
The hospitality industry in India Demand and supply of operational segment performing notably well.
witnessed a growth of 84.7% in inventory in six major cities Guest preferences have changed
revenue per available room (RevPAR) increased by 186% and 14% significantly, and people are
during the second quarter of 2021 respectively in the second quarter preferring to stay at secluded low-
(April-June) as compared to Q2 2020, of 2021 as compared to the same density properties.
according to property consultant JLL period last year.
JLL said that it expects the
India.
According to JLL’s Hotel Momentum leisure and wedding segments
However, on a pan India level, there India (HMI) Q2 2021, a quarterly to continue to drive the sector
has been a decline by 53.9% in Q2 hospitality sector monitor, y-o-y in the short to medium term. As
2021 RevPAR as compared to Q1 growth witnessed in the sector offices open and travel restrictions
2021, because of the restrictions during Q2 2021 is primarily due ease further, along with the
imposed due to the second wave of to the low base effect of the rise in the pace of vaccination,
the pandemic. complete nation-wide lockdown corporate travel is expected to
in Q2 2020. During the months of gain momentum towards the end
Goa emerged as the RevPAR leader
April and May this year, the country of the year.
in absolute terms in Q2 2021 with
witnessed the imposition of full and
a growth of 360% as compared In terms of hotel signings, a total
partial lockdowns as well as travel
to the very low base of Q2 2020. of 20 hotels comprising 2,100
restrictions in many states.
Additionally, Mumbai witnessed the keys were signed in Q2 of 2021,
highest growth in occupancy level However, as restrictions were eased which is three times the number
registering 17.7% increase in Q2 between the end of May and June, a of rooms signed in Q2 2020.
2021 over the same period last year. sharper recovery in leisure demand Furthermore, domestic operators
Chennai witnessed 99.6% growth in was seen in comparison to the same dominated signings over
RevPAR followed by Hyderabad with period last year. The recovery of international operators with the
89.6% increase compared to the same the sector has been primarily driven ratio of 60:40 in terms of inventory
period of the previous year. by branded chains in the leisure volume.
The Fern Hotels & Resorts ties up with
SpiceJet’s IFE platform SpiceScreen
The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading
environmentally sensitive hotel chain
has partnered with SpiceJet’s inflight
entertainment platform, SpiceScreen,
to showcase its selected properties on
the platform. SpiceScreen gives access
to an amazing collection of unlimited
entertainment, podcasts, magazines, and
games along with an exclusive travel section
that highlights hotels, vacations, and mid-air
cab bookings.
SpiceJet guests would be able to make
their hotel bookings on our brand website
booking engine. All 55 participating hotels
will offer SpiceJet guests booking their hotel
rooms through this platform a flat 20 % off
on the hotel’s BAR rates. The guests will also
get a 20% discount on food and beverages
and complimentary room upgrades &
late check-out till 4 pm, both subject to
availability. This is a promo offer.
28 HRA Today October - November 2021FHRAI-IHM Gets Affiliated With
NCHMCT, Noida
Restaurant Associations of India 3rd largest Hospitality Association.
(FHRAI) to be affiliated with the FHRAI-IHM offers the best-in-class
NCHMCT. FHRAI-IHM will offer training infrastructure backed by
a 3-year B.Sc. in Hospitality and experienced and learned faculty
Hotel Administration, 18-month for carving out a great future for
Diploma in Food Production, students in Hospitality.
18-month Diploma in Bakery and
FHRAI-IHM is fully equipped to
Confectionary and 18-month
provide students with all necessary
Diploma in Food & Beverages
inputs in the area of aptitude
Service.
formation, personality development
The FHRAI-Institute of Hospitality India’s only private Hospitality and brings the right value-add for
Management (FHRAI-IHM) is now Institute that’s run by the country’s building careers in the hospitality
affiliated with the National Council apex Hospitality Association is now domain. We are also updating and
of Hotel Management & Catering also affiliated with NCHMCT, Noida incorporating the technologically
Technology (NCHMCT), Noida an organisation of the Ministry advanced practices prevalent in
an organisation of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. Hospitality Industry. Hopefully, we
of Tourism, Government of India. This development reinforces our will soon have put this phase of
NCHMCT, Noida presently has over commitment to offer students the lockdowns and restrictions behind us
seventyfive affiliated Central, State best in Hospitality Management and pray that tourism bounces back
and private Hotel Management education.FHRAI-IHM is founded to health. Hospitality has and will
institutes in the country. FHRAI-IHM by FHRAI comprising of its four continue to play a major role in the
becomes the first private institution regional hotel and restaurant progress of education and continue
that is run by India’s apex Hospitality Associations in the North, East, West to be a great avenue for students
Association – Federation of Hotel & and South. FHRAI is the world’s aspiring to make a career in the field.
Second Covid-19 wave hit BMC’s khau galli plan
2021. According BMC officials said after initial
to BMC officials, discussion in January, a policy was to
a policy for khau be formulated wherein 10-12 trucks,
gallis was to be selling different cuisines, will come
framed but there and park trucks between 6pm and
is no development 11pm. For this, several wards in the
on the same as the city are looking at small streets which
plan is on hold for BMC can afford to shut between
now. 6pm and 11pm and divert traffic to
alternative routes.
The idea of food
trucks was pushed Meanwhile, the hospitality industry
by state tourism feels they should be consulted before
minister Aaditya such a policy is implemented. Pradeep
Thackeray who Shetty, senior vice-president of Hotel
announced having and Restaurant Association of Western
food trucks across India (HRAWI), said, “Our industry is
the city to boost the most impacted due to the Covid
tourism. In the lockdown, and business has been hit
The plan was to set up khau gallis 2021-22 budget, BMC reserved for hotel industry since the past 15
in all 24 administrative wards of the `200 crore for creating food months. We expect that such a policy
city. However, the city was hit with hubs including beautification of is drafted after taking suggestion from
second wave days later with cases footpaths, beautifying space below hospitality industry to ensure there is
starting to increase from February flyovers etc. level playing ground.
October - November 2021 HRA Today 29You can also read
