Promoting community-based tourism; New homestays to receive subsidies, financial assistance

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: Assam is witnessing an increase in the footfall of tourists- both foreign and domestic. There are many scenic places in rural and semi-urban areas which have become tourist hotspots. But often, tourists face the problem of affordable, clean and trusted accomadation in these places. The State Tourism Department will now support the establishment of new homestays under the ‘Aamar Alohi Homestay Scheme’ by providing subsidies and margin money assistance to selected beneficiaries.

Addressing a press meet in Guwahati today, State Tourism Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah said, “The Aamaar Aalohi Homestay Scheme of the State Tourism Department aims to promote homestay facilities, create self-employment opportunities, and provide authentic hospitality experiences to tourists. It focuses on community-based tourism and encourages the active participation of local communities in the tourism industry. The objectives of the scheme include empowerment of local communities, economic development, cultural preservation, environmental sustainability, mutual understanding and cultural exchange, and community well-being. By achieving these objectives, the scheme aims to create a sustainable and inclusive tourism model that benefits both visitors and the local community.”

The scheme provides various incentives and assistance to registered homestays and Community Tourism Organizations. “To be eligible for financial assistance, a group or cluster of at least 10 homestay units must form a Community Tourism Organization near a tourist spot. The Community Tourism Organization must have a shared vision and purpose centered around promoting community-based tourism, fostering local economic development, preserving cultural heritage, and enhancing the overall tourism experience. The organization should be a legally recognized entity with a well-defined governance structure and transparent financial management practices. It should also engage in capacity building, marketing and promotion, community engagement, and monitoring and evaluation activities,” he further said.

The selection process for providing subsidies and assistance involves open advertisement, application submission with project proposals, inspections, and selection by a committee comprising representatives from the Tourism Department, Tourism Development Corporation, India Tourism, and Assam Tourism Development Corporation (ATDC).

New homestays affiliated with community-based organizations are now eligible for a capital subsidy of 90% of the total project cost. But there has to be minimum 10 households in the group. The subsidy is provided for the construction of a minimum of two bedrooms with attached bathrooms and furnished accommodation in each unit of the group. The selected community-based organization can receive up to a maximum of Rs 1 crore or 90% of the total project cost, whichever is lower.

“The government or ATDC Ltd. does not provide loan guarantees or assume financial liability for the beneficiaries. The capital subsidy of 90% will be released in two phases- 50% upon completion of 60% of the work and 50% upon completion of 100% of the work,” said the minister.

Registered community-based tourism organizations can apply for operational subsidy for their homestays. The subsidy amount is capped at a maximum of Rs 2.5 lakh per year. To be eligible, the organization must host a minimum of 250 room nights per year. Registered community-based tourism organizations can also apply for marketing support. Shortlisted applicants can receive a maximum support of Rs 2.5 lakh per calendar year. The support covers promotion of homestays, including website development, social media activities, and participation in tourism promotional events.

Existing homestays can form a community-based tourism organization with a minimum of 10 members. They can apply for operational subsidy (maximum Rs 2.5 lakh) and marketing support (Rs 2.5 lakh) based on selection and periodic review.

The minister said, “Aamaar Aalohi Homestay Scheme aims to promote community-based tourism, protect natural and cultural heritage, and ensure sustainable tourism development in Assam. It provides opportunities for local communities to actively participate in the tourism industry, generate income and employment, preserve their cultural heritage, and create memorable experiences for tourists.”

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