Tourism Goa has launched a unique scheme to diversify its tourism offerings and promote community-led development, the Goa Department of Tourism launched the Homestay and Bed & Breakfast Scheme designed to boost rural and
hinterland tourism, provide sustainable livelihood opportunities, and position Goa as a model for regenerative tourism in India.
The scheme was Initially conceptualised as a policy and has now been restructured into a full-fledged scheme that offers financial and non-financial incentives to homestay operators across selected talukas. It was inaugurated by Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant along with Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte and senior government officials.
Local residents operating homestays in
the talukas of Sattari, Sanguem, Dharbandora, Bicholim, Canacona, Ponda and Quepem will be eligible for a one-time financial grant of ₹2 lakh. In addition, beneficiaries will receive marketing support, training, listings on Goa Tourism's platforms, and subsidised participation in domestic tourism trade fairs. The scheme is valid for five years and may be extended further based on its impact and uptake.
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Chief Minister Pramod Sawant stated that the scheme has been launched with a renewed focus on promoting hinterlands and empowering women homestay operators. He emphasised that the initiative would provide a platform for showcasing unique rural experiences and improve access to destinations such as wildlife sanctuaries and village attractions.
Tourism Minister Khaunte noted that the scheme aligns with the state's 'Goa Beyond Beaches' vision. He highlighted that the majority of homestays are operated by women, and the
initiative aims to empower them through infrastructure support and capacity-building. He added that the scheme, developed in consultation with the CM, is a strong endorsement of community-based tourism. With partnerships already in place with platforms like Airbnb, and plans for training and exposure visits, the programme is expected to expand the scope of rural tourism in Goa.
Director of Tourism Kedar Naik said that the department has a responsibility not only to promote destinations but to nurture Goa's tourism
ecosystem — including its people, environment, and cultural heritage. He described the scheme as a strategic shift towards decentralised and inclusive tourism that will enable local households to engage meaningfully in the tourism economy.
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As part of its ease-of-doing-business approach, the scheme allows for offline and online registrations via www.goaonline.gov.in. Homestays will be categorised as either Gold or Silver based
on their service quality, with systems in place for inspection, reclassification, and continuous monitoring to maintain standards.
