Uttarakhand’s homestay scheme is bringing new life to hill villages. It boosts rural tourism and also encourages reverse migration. Notably, about 6,500 migrants have returned to their villages. Of these, more than 22 per cent have started homestays.
Homestays in Uttarakhand Today
According to an estimate, over 5,000 homestays now run across the state. Also, many young people and women have adopted this business. As a result, they have become self-reliant. Meanwhile, thanks to the homestay scheme, villages have turned into attractions for Indian and foreign tourists.
Deen Dayal Upadhyay Home Stay Development Scheme
The Deen Dayal Upadhyay Home Stay Development Scheme drives this growth. Over four years, the scheme has given ₹79.28 crore to 537 beneficiaries. This money supports the building of homestays as a grant.
- Hill areas: 50 per cent subsidy on project cost, up to ₹15 lakh
- Plains: 25 per cent subsidy on project cost, up to ₹7.5 lakh
However, the scheme does not cover Nagar Nigam and Nagar Palika areas.
How to Apply
First, applicants apply through the state government’s online portal. Next, a committee chaired by the District Magistrate interviews them. After approval, the application goes to a bank for loan sanction. Importantly, every new or renovated homestay must register with the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board.
Jadung Village: A Homestay Cluster on the Border
Jadung village lies on the India–China border in Uttarkashi district. Now, the government is developing it as a homestay cluster. Notably, six homestays there are in the final stage of construction. In 1962, the army had vacated Nelang and Jadung villages for strategic reasons. Today, both villages fall under the Centre’s Vibrant Villages Programme.
Trekking Traction Centre Homestay Grant Scheme
Under the “Meri Yojana Meri Sarkar” programme, the state runs another scheme. It is the Trekking Traction Centre Homestay Grant Scheme. Its aim is to build tourism infrastructure with local participation. So far, 258 people have benefited over four years.
What the Chief Minister Said
CM Pushkar Singh Dhami said the government wants tourism to reach every village. In his words, happy villages make a happy state and nation. Therefore, homestays create jobs for youth and draw tourists to the hills.
Why the Homestay Scheme Matters for UKPSC
Notably, migration from the hills is a core UKPSC topic. So, remember the subsidy limits, the 537 beneficiaries and the Jadung example. Also, link the scheme with the Vibrant Villages Programme. For official updates, also visit Uttarakhand Tourism. Next, for a related story, read about the GPS mapping of 100 trek routes. You can also download our free Uttarakhand Current Affairs magazine.
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