In a significant push to expand tourism infrastructure and generate local employment, the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department is gearing up for a major statewide awareness campaign. The drive, focused on promoting the Homestay and Bed & Breakfast (B&B) Scheme, is scheduled to run from January 14 to January 30.
Campaign Aims to Educate and Empower Locals
The core objective of this extensive campaign is to educate residents across the state's districts about the benefits of the government's homestay initiative. District-level teams will fan out, particularly in key tourist destinations, to conduct awareness sessions. They will not only promote the scheme but also review pending applications and issue registration certificates to eligible homeowners on the spot.
This hands-on approach is designed to simplify the process for locals interested in converting their homes into welcoming spaces for tourists. The department has earmarked a budget of Rs 2 lakh per district to fund these awareness activities and create necessary promotional materials.
Boosting Tourism in Key Cultural Hubs
The campaign will strategically focus on high-potential districts that witness massive tourist inflows due to cultural and religious events. Priority will be given to Mathura, Varanasi, Lucknow, Prayagraj, and Ayodhya. These cities host major attractions and festivals like the Maha Kumbh, Deepotsav, and Rangotsav, creating a consistent demand for diverse accommodation options.
Launched under the UP Tourism Homestay and B&B Scheme-2025, the program allows residents to offer visitors a unique blend of home-cooked meals, local culture, and personalised hospitality. It serves as an affordable alternative to standard hotels while providing host families with a sustainable source of additional income.
A Win-Win for Visitors and Residents
Officials highlight that the initiative is a multifaceted strategy to strengthen the state's tourism ecosystem. "The awareness drive aims to ensure maximum participation, expand the network of quality homestays, and provide a culturally immersive experience for visitors, while empowering locals through sustainable tourism," stated an official.
The expected outcomes of the campaign are clear:
- Expansion of tourist facilities beyond conventional hotels.
- Creation of direct and indirect employment opportunities for Uttar Pradesh residents.
- Offering tourists an authentic and affordable experience of local life and culture.
- Building a more decentralised and robust hospitality network across the state.
As the January 14 start date approaches, the tourism department's push is set to unlock the potential of household hospitality, turning local homes into gateways for unforgettable tourist experiences in Uttar Pradesh.
