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In a bid to promote rural entrepreneurship and generate job opportunities in remote areas, the Ministry of Tourism, responsible for fostering tourism in India, is actively supporting small hotels and homestays.
According to the Union Minister of Culture, Tourism, and DoNER, G. Kishan Reddy, the ministry has implemented several initiatives, including skill development programs and classification/approval schemes, to empower rural communities and enhance the credibility of accommodation units.
Through this scheme, the Ministry of Tourism grants classification and approval for one-three category hotels, both new projects and operational establishments, as well as heritage hotels, legacy hotels, motels, and homestays/B&Bs. The process is facilitated through the National Integrated Data of Hospitality Industry (NIDHI) portal, ensuring a standardised and credible classification for these accommodation units, Reddy explained.
A significant step towards rural development, according to the Ministry of Tourism is the formulation of a National Strategy for the Promotion of Rural Homestays. This strategy aims to create entrepreneurial opportunities and jobs in rural areas. It encourages eligible rural homestay projects to be considered for schemes like the Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), which promotes self-employment and village industries.
Engaging sessions empowered attendees with practical tools and strategies to excel in their ventures, while industry experts shared insights on adventure tourism marketing and authenticity. The event showcased a wide range of thrilling adventures, promoting responsible practices and safety while also discussing risk mitigation. ATOAI will continue with similar roadshows in Hyderabad, New Delhi, Siliguri, and Pasighat.
Additionally, the Ministry of Tourism advocates for the inclusion of homestays in other Central and State Government schemes dedicated to the promotion and development of MSME service enterprises.Fostering rural tourism and empowering women in the sector is also a key objective of the Ministry, asserted Reddy. To achieve this, a National Strategy and Roadmap for Development of Rural Tourism in India has been formulated in collaboration with relevant line Ministries, State Governments, and industry stakeholders. By leveraging the potential of rural tourism, the strategy aims for inclusive growth and the economic empowerment of women.
The Ministry of Tourism’s Capacity Building for Service Providers (CBSP) scheme has also taken a proactive step in addressing skill gaps by introducing a 150-hour Homestay course. The training program targets aspiring youth and homestay owners, equipping them with the necessary skills to run successful homestay businesses across India, including remote hilly areas.
Affirming these measures during a Rajya Sabha session, Reddy shared that by instilling professionalism and high-end operational skills, the program aims to create a sustainable pool of skilled human resources in the tourism industry.
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