Invite private players

Apropos of ‘White elephants’; to bring loss-making hotels out of financial distress, several strategic measures can be considered by the Himachal Government. The state can invite private players to manage or co-own these properties, which would bring in professional expertise, reduce the financial burden on the exchequer and potentially revitalise business. Aggressive marketing strategies and improved online visibility can boost tourist footfall. Investing in infrastructure upgrade and modern amenities can attract higher-paying customers and improve occupancy rates. These hotels can introduce additional revenue streams such as adventure tourism, eco-tourism and corporate retreats. Offering tax incentives, subsidies or easier compliance with rules could also be helpful.

Sanjay Chopra, Mohali

Amplify outreach on social media

Refer to ‘White elephants’; when the government’s efforts to promote tourism are not enough, the responsibility often shifts to local communities, entrepreneurs and enthusiasts to do the needful. Stakeholders can conduct social media campaigns showcasing the state’s rich culture, scenic landscapes and adventure activities. Promoting eco-tourism and homestays can attract many travellers. Collaborating with influencers and travel bloggers can amplify outreach. Moreover, small investments in local infrastructure like signage, waste management and public amenities can go a long way in enhancing tourists’ experience.

Sikandar Bansal, Shimla

Fix accountability of officials

With reference to ‘White elephants’; the editorial highlights the plight of HPTDC hotels. It is ironic that despite being located at prominent locations and providing good services at affordable rates, these are running in losses. Lack of publicity and state officials’ interference in the working of these hotels are some of the reasons behind their poor show. The government should come up with a long-term plan for their revival and fix accountability of the officials concerned for the declining appeal of these properties.

Virender Sharma, Shimla

Put trials on the fast track

Refer to ‘Undertrial crisis’; the fact that more than 75 per cent of the prisoners in India’s jails are undertrials lays bare weaknesses in the criminal justice system. One of the key constraints is the chronic manpower deficiency in courts. In order to enable a comprehensive response to the situation, the government needs to incorporate faster mechanisms into the system, enhance layers of accountability in the review of undertrial cases through specialised committees and utilise social workers to ensure due diligence. Fast-track courts and tribunals are the key to addressing this crisis.

Netra, Jammu

Reform India’s prison system

Apropos of ‘Freedom within walls: Case for open prisons’; the article highlights the need for prison reforms in India. Overcrowding of jails, caste bias and the detrimental effects of solitary confinement expose the harsh and outdated system. Open prisons like Rajasthan’s Sanganer underline the value of reform and reintegration. The SC’s move against caste discrimination is commendable, but it must be paired with policy changes to fix broader issues, including the inhuman conditions faced by inmates. A move towards reformative justice, focusing on dignity and recovery, is vital to change India’s prisons into places that uphold the values of fairness and justice.

Amarjeet Mann, Una

Boost tourism in Punjab

With reference to ‘Punjab needs fiscal discipline to escape debt trap’; the article aptly observes the lack of fiscal and revenue generation policies that has led Punjab into the quagmire of debt. To be in the top echelons, the authorities must take requisite steps to ensure a healthy and robust economy. The foremost need is to give a fillip to its tourism, showcasing cities of Punjab that have historical importance. Aspects like handicrafts and food should be brought to the forefront to ensure revenue generation. Punjab, at this stage, requires the Gujarat or Kerala model to become prosperous again and contribute more to the economy of the nation.

Rupinder Kaur, Ambala Cantt