Kolkata, Aug 6 (IANS): Painting a grim picture of the hospitality sector due to a sluggish economy and government apathy, EIH Executive Chairman P.R.S. Oberoi Tuesday said the current unrest in diffferent parts of country over demads for new states is likely to further affect the sector.

"The sector is facing unprecedented challenges due to a sluggish economy as well as apathy shown to it by the central and the state governments. And now the issue of creation of new states is likely to affect the sector further," Oberoi told the media here.

"The stir over Gorkhaland, Bodoland and others will adversely affect tourist movement," he said.

Following the Congress led UPA decision to give green signal to the creation of a separate state of Telangana, separatist movements in several parts of the country have intensified.

Observing that the travel and tourism sector was a story of "missed opportunities", Oberoi called for more governmental efforts to rev up the industry.

"It is vital that this sector is given the importance that it deserves," added Oberoi.