National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI), an apex body of organised restaurant industry in the country, has welcomed the recent decisions of both Kerala and Punjab governments to liberalise excise laws in respective States to boost tourism.
In an official statement, the Association President, Riyaaz Amlani while appreciating the respective political leaderships has expressed the hope that other states would take “inspiration from these laudable moves” and address issues including Black Swan moments like Highway ban, non-issuance of Excise Licenses in Delhi and Bengaluru to new restaurants, etc.
“Rollback of liquor prohibition by the State (Kerala) is an excellent move which will go a long way in promoting tourism and tourism related jobs. We also welcome the recent news about Punjab government’s announcement to amend its Excise Policy that will lift restrictions on restaurants, clubs and hotels from serving liquor within 500 metres of state and national highways,” he said in a statement.
“Prohibition is unsustainable. Powers need to realise that Tourism and Restaurants add personality to communities and helps bring people together. They have enormous social impact on the liveability index of a city. This is what new India should be – Progressive and a Tourism Powerhouse,” he stated.
