As part of the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PM-JUGA), the Ministry has issued guidelines for developing homestays in tribal areas. This initiative, a sub-scheme of Swadesh Darshan, seeks to promote responsible tourism while generating livelihood opportunities for tribal communities.
Each homestay will receive financial support of up to ₹5 lakh for community needs, ₹5 lakh for constructing two additional rooms per household, and ₹3 lakh for renovation of existing rooms. Technical training and upskilling for homestay owners are integral to the initiative, ensuring quality standards and professional management.
Enhancing Tourist Experiences
The Ministry has also launched the Challenge Based Destination Development sub-scheme under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 to improve tourist experiences and transform destinations into sustainable and responsible hubs. Through this, tourist locations will be upgraded while maintaining cultural and environmental integrity.
Promotion of Rural and Eco-Tourism
The Ministry continues to actively promote rural tourism via digital platforms, social media, and national campaigns. The strategy also emphasizes green and eco-tourism with initiatives like Travel for LiFE, encouraging travelers and tourism businesses to adopt sustainable practices while exploring India’s rural landscapes.
Holistic Tourism Development
The national roadmap integrates tribal homestays, rural tourism, and eco-tourism into a unified framework to strengthen local economies and empower communities. By promoting sustainable practices, the strategy supports India’s goal of inclusive tourism that benefits both local populations and the environment.
Government Commitment
Union Minister for Tourism and Culture, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, provided this update in a written reply to Lok Sabha, highlighting the government’s commitment to sustainable tourism, rural livelihood enhancement, and cultural preservation through structured national initiatives.