Assam Tourism unveils Amar Alohi Homestay Scheme to empower communities, ET TravelWorld

With an aim to foster community-based tourism, the Assam Tourism Development Corporation has launched the Amar Alohi Rural Homestay Scheme 2022-23. Unveiled by state Tourism Minister, Jayanta Malla Baruah, sanction letters were conferred to deserving clusters in Guwahati.

The “Amar Aalohi” Homestay Scheme, steered by the Tourism Department, Government of Assam, is designed to propel homestay facilities, carve out self-employment avenues, and offer authentic hospitality encounters to travellers. Implemented by the Govt of Assam, Tourism Department through Assam Tourism Development Corporation, the initiative aims to invigorate tourism by harnessing the rich cultural tapestry and warm hospitality of local communities.

During the ceremony, sanction letters were bestowed upon five clusters, namely Dima Hasao Adventure Association (Dima Hasao), Umswai Valley Green & Clean Protection Committee (West Karbi Anglong), Dichang Welfare Foundation/Siupaatphaa Social Foundation (Charaideo), Dihing Patkai SHG (Dibrugarh), and Chiram Social Foundation Deori Community (Majuli), signifying a significant stride towards community-driven tourism development.

Minister Mallabaruah underscored the scheme’s transformative potential in uplifting local communities. He emphasised its dual benefits of fostering economic prosperity for beneficiaries while enhancing the tourism landscape with authentic local experiences.

Kumar Padmapani Bora, IRS, Secretary, Tourism, and Managing Director of Assam Tourism Development, elucidated the eligibility criteria and benefits under the Amar Alohi Rural Homestay Scheme. He highlighted that groups or clusters comprising a minimum of 10 homestay units near various tourist attractions are eligible for the scheme, aiming to catalyze tourism activities within local communities.

Key benefits under the scheme include Capital Subsidy, where beneficiaries will receive a capital subsidy of 90 per cent of the total project cost, up to a maximum of INR 1 crore, facilitating the construction of new homestay units and bolstering local infrastructure.

With Promotional Subsidy, the group will be entitled to a promotional subsidy covering 50 per cent of the total promotional expenses, up to INR 2.5 lakh per year for five years, aimed at enhancing visibility and attracting more tourists.An operational subsidy of up to INR 2.5 lakh per year will be provided if the group achieves a minimum of 100 paid room nights by guests annually, incentivizing operational efficiency and service excellence.

The issuance of sanction letters is contingent upon compliance with scheme conditions, including the execution of agreements with ATDC. These agreements, valid for seven years, entail provisions regarding unit usage, maintenance standards, and participation in training programs.

ATDC remains committed to promoting sustainable tourism and fostering the socio-economic development of local communities in Assam.