New initiative offers ₹2 lakh grant, marketing support, and training to promote rural, community-driven tourism in seven talukas
Porvorim, Goa — August 7, 2025: The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa has officially launched its Homestay and Bed & Breakfast Scheme, aimed at empowering women entrepreneurs, boosting rural livelihoods, and promoting hinterland tourism. The scheme was inaugurated by Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, in the presence of Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, key state officials, and dignitaries at the PAC Hall, Secretariat, Porvorim.
Initially conceptualised as a policy, the initiative has now been reframed into a full-fledged scheme offering fiscal and non-fiscal incentives, simplified registration, and quality classification standards. Designed to diversify Goa’s tourism beyond its beaches, the scheme supports community-based, sustainable, and regenerative tourism while preserving the state’s cultural heritage.
Under the program, eligible establishments in Sattari, Sanguem, Dharbandora, Bicholim, Canacona, Ponda, and Quepem talukas will receive a one-time grant of ₹2,00,000, along with marketing assistance, training, listing on Goa Tourism platforms, and subsidised participation in domestic travel trade fairs. The scheme is valid for five years, with potential for extension.
Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said, “The Homestay Scheme has been launched with a renewed focus on promoting the hinterlands and empowering women homestay operators. Through this initiative, we are providing them with a platform to showcase their offerings and better access to key locations such as wildlife sanctuaries and village destinations.”
Highlighting the scheme’s alignment with the ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ vision, Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte noted, “Our primary emphasis is on women empowerment. Since most homestays are run by women, we thought of empowering them through this initiative. With MoUs signed with platforms like Airbnb and plans for capacity building, exposure visits, and training, this scheme will greatly expand rural tourism in Goa.”
Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added, “This is a strategic shift toward inclusive, decentralised, and regenerative tourism, enabling local households to participate meaningfully in the tourism economy.”
The scheme is expected to create new economic opportunities, ease pressure on coastal areas, and promote equitable tourism growth in the state.
About Goa Tourism
The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, is committed to promoting the state as a sustainable, diverse, and world-class travel destination. Through initiatives like ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’, the department is expanding tourism opportunities to rural and hinterland areas, encouraging cultural immersion, and preserving Goa’s unique heritage.
As part of the scheme’s Ease of Doing Business focus, interested applicants can register through both offline and online modes via the http://www.goaonline.gov.in/ portal. Homestays will be classified under Gold and Silver categories based on service offerings, with provisions for reclassification, inspection, and regular monitoring.