Keeping the current situation in mind, the tourism ministry has decided to extend the validity period of approval and classification of hotels and other accommodation. The extension has been granted till June 30. 

The ministry classifies hotels under a star rating system to conform to the expected standards for different classes of tourists. The system rates the hotel and accommodation units ranging from one to three star, four and five star with or without alcohol, five star deluxe, heritage stay, vintage stay, home stays, guest house amongst the others. This certification/classification is valid for a period of 5 years. 

&ldquoConsidering the current situation when the hospitality industry is going through a very difficult time in the wake of COVID 19 Pandemic and lockdown that has severely impacted the accommodation sector, it has been decided that validity of approval or certifications of hotels and other accommodation units who project approvals/reapprovals and classification/reclassification have expired/are likely to expire during the period (24.03.2020 to 29.6.2020) are deemed to be extended till 30.06.2020,&rdquo the ministry said in a statement. 

The ministry has also decided to allow six months&rsquo relaxation or extension to all categories of Tour Operators (inbound, domestic, adventure), travel agents and tourist transport operators for their approval but with conditions in place. 

The ministry is also aiming to promote domestic tourism and hence has a scheme of approving travel agents, tour operators, adventure tour operators to encourage quality, standards and service in these categories.