<h1>Himachal Homestay Owners Oppose New Policy: High Fees, GST Burden, and Lack of Consultation Highlighted</h1> Homestay owners in Himachal Pradesh have expressed concerns over a new policy proposed by the state government, arguing it imposes high registration and renewal fees and unfair Goods and Services Tax (GST) burdens. The Himachali Homestay Association criticized the lack of consultation during policy formation and highlighted that homestays differ from commercial hotels. They demand reduced fees, longer validity periods, and removal of costly stability certificate requirements. The association warns that the policy could harm small-scale homestay businesses and increase rural unemployment, urging that homestays be classified as domestic activities to avoid commercial taxes and extra fees.