Goa’s Homestay Scheme Boosts Rural Tourism

The Goa government launched its ambitious Homestay and Bed and Breakfast Scheme on Thursday, aiming to transform rural tourism and empower local communities, particularly women, in the state’s hinterland. Unveiled by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant at the Secretariat in Porvorim, the initiative aligns with the state’s Goa Beyond Beaches vision, promoting sustainable tourism in areas beyond its famed coastline.

The scheme targets talukas like Sattari, Sanguem, Dharbandora, Bicholim, Canacona, Ponda, and Quepem, offering homestay operators a one-time grant of ₹2 lakh, along with training, marketing support, and subsidized participation in tourism trade fairs. “This initiative will enhance access to Goa’s wildlife sanctuaries, quaint villages, and Indo-Portuguese heritage homes, while empowering women and youth entrepreneurs,” Sawant said, highlighting the scheme’s focus on community-based tourism.

Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte emphasized the role of women, noting that most homestays are women-run. “This scheme strengthens their contribution to the tourism economy, fostering inclusive growth,” he said. Collaborations with platforms like Airbnb and ongoing training programs aim to elevate service standards and promote Goan culture, cuisine, and local crafts.

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State Tourism Director Kedar Naik outlined the scheme’s objectives: streamlining registration, ensuring quality classification, and augmenting accommodation to meet growing tourist demand. “It’s a shift from policy to action, preserving Goa’s cultural ethos and natural landscapes,” Naik said. Homestays must maintain emergency service contacts and promote local produce, with the Department of Tourism enforcing compliance through unannounced inspections.

Valid for five years with potential extensions, the scheme has drawn praise for creating self-employment opportunities and marketing locally sourced goods. Local leaders, including Bicholim MLA Chandrakant Shetye and Mayem MLA Premendra Shet, attended the launch, signaling strong community support.

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