Andhra Pradesh Hoteliers Seek Equal Industry Benefits and Tech-Driven Growth in Meeting with Chief Minister

AP Star Hotels Association Meets Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister to Push Digital Innovation

The Andhra Pradesh Star Hotels Association (APHA) recently met with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu during the Tourism Conclave to discuss key initiatives aimed at upgrading the state’s tourism sector. The focus was clear: integrating AI-driven tools and digital innovations to improve guest experiences, marketing strategies, and hotel operations.

The Chief Minister welcomed the industry's willingness to collaborate on a technology-driven roadmap to boost tourism growth. This openness signals promising support for digital transformation within the hospitality sector in Andhra Pradesh.

Key Industry Requests for Policy Support

APHA members highlighted the importance of extending full industry status benefits to all existing star hotels, not just new establishments. These benefits include recurring concessions such as reduced power tariffs, water tax relief, and property tax waivers. They argued that while capital subsidies are naturally geared toward new projects, ongoing operational benefits should be fairly distributed to maintain the state's competitive edge in quality tourism.

Additionally, the association proposed reclassifying hotels under the "green category" for Pollution Control norms. This change would recognize sustainable practices and eco-friendly upgrades already implemented by many hotels, moving them away from more restrictive orange or red categories.

Government Response and Next Steps

The Chief Minister responded positively, assuring the members that their proposals would be reviewed carefully. Appropriate directions are expected to be issued to address these long-standing requests as part of Andhra Pradesh’s tourism policy enhancements.

Delegation Members

• Prabhu Kishore, Chairman, Novotel Varun Group
• Gokaraju Gangaraju, Chairman, Lemon Tree Premiere
• M. Rajaiah, Managing Director, Taj Vivanta Vijayawada
• Muttavarapu Murali Krishna, Managing Director, Fortune Murali Park
• R.V. Swamy, President, AP Star Hotels Association
• S. Murthy Chittoory, General Secretary
• Venkat, Vice-President
• Sharan Valluru, Managing Director, GRT Grand Vijayawada

For operations professionals in the hospitality sector, this meeting signals a move toward smarter, tech-enabled hotel management and a more supportive policy environment. Embracing AI and digital tools can streamline operations, improve resource management, and heighten guest satisfaction.

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