By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 22: In what may come as an addition to the prevalent boost for tourism, the Ministry of Tourism has formulated a national strategy for the promotion of rural homestays as they not only provide tourists an alternative form of accommodation but also promote inclusive development by creating entrepreneurial and job opportunities for the respective local communities.
This was revealed by V Vidyavathi, Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, at the Business Session on the second day of the International Tourism Mart 2023, on Wednesday.
Vidyavathi, in her address, urged all Northeastern states to actively consider implementing the homestay strategy, aligning with the goal of promoting local businesses and supporting rural tourism development in the region.
It may be mentioned that this aligns with the Meghalaya government’s vision and scheme of developing and funding 1,000 homestays every year.
Speaking about the prospects of adventure tourism in the Northeastern states owing to the distinct ecology, she said, “The Ministry of Tourism has formulated a national strategy for Adventure Tourism and constituted a National Board for Adventure Tourism to guide the operationalisation and implementation of the same to promote and develop adventure tourism in the country.”
The Ministry of Tourism has drafted the Adventure Tourism Model law which covers the obligations, institutional framework, penalties, registration and the provision of insurance. It has been circulated to all states/UTs for feedback, she said.
Encouraging the Northeastern states to actively engage in ensuring safety for adventure sports, Vidyavathi emphasised on the need to consider the region’s sensitive ecosystem in the tourism development process.
During the session, representatives from the eight Northeastern states provided updates on new destinations and opportunities in their regions. Knowledge sessions and panel discussions, featuring both government and private sector representatives, focused on advancing connectivity in the North East.