Assam Tourism Bill 2024 to be introduced in upcoming Vidhan Sabha budget session

The Assam government is poised to introduce the Assam Tourism (Development and Registration) Bill, 2024, in the upcoming Vidhan Sabha budget session, as confirmed by State Tourism Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah. 

On Assam Tourism Bill 2024, Assam Tourism Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah says, "We could not regulate tourism in the state because we did not have an act. In the upcoming Vidhan Sabha budget session, this act will be implemented..."

This legislative move aims to revitalize and promote the tourism industry within the state, ensuring economic growth through the development of tourism infrastructure and responsible, sustainable tourism practices.

The bill is designed to safeguard Assam's cultural and natural heritage while enhancing the overall experience of tourists through improved services, infrastructure, and attractions. It also seeks to minimize negative impacts on the environment, culture, and local communities, thereby ensuring the long-term viability of the tourism sector.

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In addition to the new bill, the Assam government has been actively working on various initiatives to boost tourism.

The introduction of the Assam Tourism Bill 2024 is a strategic step towards harnessing the state's rich tourism potential, which includes exotic wildlife, scenic beauty, colourful festivals, historical monuments, lush tea gardens, and the massive Brahmaputra River. 

The bill is expected to contribute significantly to the state's economy, with tourism already adding up to 6.23% to the nationwide GDP and attracting millions of tourists annually.

The Assam cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, approved the bill on January 31, 2024, signalling a historic stride towards cultural preservation and social reform. With this legislative framework, Assam is set to become an even more sought-after destination, offering a diverse range of activities from trekking in tea gardens to wildlife tourism in renowned national parks like Kaziranga and Manas.