Context:

The Chhattisgarh government has approved a new homestay policy for the year 2025 to 2030, aimed at promoting tourism in rural and tribal-dominated areas, especially in the Maoist-affected Bastar division. The policy was approved in a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai. The decision comes at a time when security forces are actively carrying out anti-Naxal operations in the Bastar region.

• Regions like Bastar and Surguja are famous for Chhattisgarh's cultural diversity, natural beauty and rich tribal heritage. Through the homestay policy, these areas will not only be made attractive for domestic and foreign tourists, but local people will also get new employment and income opportunities.

Experience local life and culture:

• According to government officials, through homestay projects, tourists will get a first-hand experience of rural lifestyle, local culture, tribal art, handicrafts and food. Local artisans, artists and farmers will be directly benefited through their products and services, which will also strengthen the national campaign like 'Vocal for Local'.
• This policy will not only be a means of economic development but will also promote social harmony and cultural understanding. Areas like Bastar, which have till now remained under the shadow of security and underdevelopment, will be seen emerging on the tourism map under this policy.

Key Benefits of Chhattisgarh Homestay Projects:

There are several wide-ranging and lasting benefits associated with the Homestay Policy 2025–30 implemented by the Chhattisgarh Government. These benefits are directly linked to the economic, social, cultural and environmental development of the state. Its main benefits are as follows:

1. Economic empowerment of rural and tribal areas

•         Local people will get new sources of income. They will be able to earn extra money by renting their homes to tourists.

•         Women and youth will get self-employment opportunities, which will also reduce migration.

2. Promotion of tourism

•         Tourist attraction will increase in the less developed but culturally rich areas of the state.

•         This policy will bring Chhattisgarh on the sustainable and experiential tourism map of India.

3. Conservation of local culture, art and handicrafts

•         Tourists will experience local dance, music, cuisine, and craftsmanship first-hand, which will preserve these traditional forms.

•         Sales of local products will increase, which will benefit the artisans economically.

4. Peace and development in Maoist-affected areas

•         Areas like Bastar and Surguja will join the mainstream of development, which will inspire the youth there to join development instead of violence.

•         Trust building between the government and the general public will be strengthened.

5. Sustainable tourism

•         The homestay model makes limited use of natural resources and is compatible with the local ecology.

•         This can prevent environmental damage caused by large hotel industries. 6. Emphasis on ‘Vocal for Local’

•         Self-reliance will increase by giving priority to local products and services.

•         This policy will also strengthen the goals of the Self-reliant India campaign.

Conclusion:

Chhattisgarh Homestay Policy 2025-30 is the result of a far-sighted thinking, which will provide a new base to the tourism, rural economy and social inclusion of the state. It will not only bring positive change in sensitive areas like Bastar, but will also lead Chhattisgarh on the path of inclusive and sustainable development.