In a collaborative move to transform India’s tourism and hospitality landscape, NITI Aayog, in association with the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), has released a forward-looking report titled “Rethinking Homestays: Navigating Policy Pathways.” The report was formally launched by Shri Suman Bery, Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog, in the presence of Shri Yugal Kishore Joshi, Programme Director at NITI Aayog, and senior representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Culture, and tourism officials from Goa, Kerala, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh. From Goa, Shri Vikas Kamble, Deputy Resident Commissioner, Goa Sadan, participated in the event.
The report lays out a strategic roadmap to unlock the full potential of the homestay and BnB sector in India. Emphasizing their value as more than just accommodation, the report positions homestays as enablers of culturally immersive travel experiences, economic empowerment for local communities, and sustainable development across regions. It advocates for policy approaches that are enabling rather than restrictive—calling for transparent, light-touch regulations that ensure safety and accountability while preserving the charm and individuality of local homes and communities.
This approach aligns with broader goals of inclusive growth, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, where homestays can generate employment, promote entrepreneurship, and create new revenue streams without large-scale infrastructure investments. The participation of key tourism states underscores a growing consensus that homestays are central to the next chapter of India’s tourism strategy—blending culture, community, and commerce.
By championing locally rooted experiences and fostering small-scale hospitality enterprises, the report envisions a future where India’s tourism is not just globally competitive but also deeply connected to its heritage and people.
