IHP will initially have among its members four four-star hotel and resort properties and a five- star resort project. The members have already signed a formal agreement to this effect and others are expected to join in shortly.

The members are Delhi-based UG Hotels & Resorts Ltd, owners of five- star resort project Shilon Resort; Manali Resorts, The Naini Retreat, Corbett Hideaway and a resort in Dalhousie.

Calling the pool the first such experiment in the hospitality industry, president Prem Dham of UG Hotels & Resorts and one of the three founder members of the IHP told The Financial Express,``initially, we have thought of taking in about six-seven members.''

Based on the response that the idea generates over the next six months or so, we will expand the membership base.''``We intend to make this a country-wideassociation. There will be, however, no membership fee,'' said Dham.

Dham said the association would also help avoid the high cost of hiring foreign management consultants and services to promote the hotel and resort properties. ``All the members of IHP will work together under a framework of rules and carry out joint advertising. They will be required to carry the name, location and other relevant details of the other member in their advertisements at all times.'' ``Making reservations for the other members will entitle a member to 20 per cent incentive, to be paid by the respective hotel,'' said Dham adding, ``the incentive earned will be put in the IHP pool and would be utilised for promoting the pool.''