Himachal Pradesh Approves Outsourcing of Eight HPTDC Hotels to Private Operators

The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) has approved outsourcing eight hotels, including properties in Kasauli, Fagu, Kullu, and Bilaspur, to private operators following Cabinet approval. Officials believe professional management could enhance profitability through renovation. However, HPTDC Chairman Raghubir Bali recommended focusing on renovations instead of outsourcing. Opposition leader Jai Ram Thakur criticized the move as a privatization effort undermining state resources, pledging strong resistance to the policy.