PANAJI
In a move aimed at bringing into the net the many businesses and service providers operating informally in the hospitality and tourism sector, the Goa's tourism ministry has warned of stiff penalties if gray operations do not register with the tourism department by June 30 this year.
Tourism business operators will be levied penalties to the tune of up to Rs one-lakh if they fail to either register or renew their registration before June 30, the tourism department has said via a public notice.
Citing the provisions of the Goa Registration of Tourist Trade Act, it said those operating in the sector have to either register or if already registered, renew their registration within the first three months of every financial year.
The businesses listed include hotel and keepers of other accommodation, travel agent, tour operator, motor boat, launch, water sports operators, dealers in handicrafts, tourist guide, photographer, government and private shack operators, private huts, deck beds and beach umbrellas, adventure sports, spice plantations and online service providers.
“All the applicants who fail to comply with the provisions of this Act and the Rules made thereunder shall be liable to penalty by the Prescribed Authority along with fines which may extend upto Rs.1,00,000,” the public notice adds.
