The Tourism Department of the Government of Assam has released details of the Aamaar Aalohi Scheme. This scheme aims to promote homestays in a bid to promote the tourism sector. Apart from creating self-employment opportunities, it also focuses on quality hospitality. It also encourages local community participation and community-based tourism.
The department has released the following key points regarding the Aamaar Aalohi scheme. New homestays affiliated with community-based organizations will be eligible for capital subsidy. Such projects will need to have a minimum of 10 households in the group. The maximum subsidy for the projects will be Rs 1 Crore or 90% of the total cost, whichever is lower. Each of the accommodations will have to be fully furnished with two bedrooms and attached bathrooms. However, the government or ATDC will not provide a loan guarantee or assume financial liabilities. The government will pay the capital subsidy will be in two parts. 50% will be given on 60% work competition and the rest on 100% completion.
The tourism department will also offer operational subsidies to registered community-based tourism organizations. Accommodation facilities which hosted a minimum of 250 room nights per year will be eligible. The maximum subsidy amount is capped at Rs 2.5 lakhs per year
Marketing support will also be provided to such organizations upto a maximum of Rs 2.5 lakhs per calendar year. Shortlisted applicants will be provided support towards the promotion of their homestays. These include the promotion of websites, social media promotions and participation in tourism events.
Existing organizations will also be able to avail of the mentioned benefits. And all the selected organizations will be subject to periodic inspections. To be eligible for assistance, the cluster must have at least 10 homestay units. And must be a registered Community Tourism Organization near a tourist spot.
