Exploring the beauty of Assam, enchanting landscapes and rich culture
The Assam Tourism Development Corporation Limited (ATDC) has embarked on a remarkable journey towards promoting community-based tourism through its innovative Amar Alohi Rural Home-Stay 2022-23 Scheme. This visionary initiative aims to empower local communities, foster sustainable development, and enrich the tourism experience in the mesmerizing state of Assam, India.
Empowering Communities Through Tourism
The Amar Alohi scheme, spearheaded by the Tourism Department of the Government of Assam, is a testament to the commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development. By promoting homestay facilities, the scheme not only creates self-employment opportunities but also preserves and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Assam.
Distribution Ceremony Highlights
The distribution ceremony of sanction letters for the Amar Alohi Rural Home-Stay 2022-23 Scheme was a momentous occasion, graced by the presence of the Honourable Tourism Minister of Assam, Jayanta Malla Baruah. Held at the ATDC office in Guwahati, the event symbolized the Government’s unwavering support for community-based tourism initiatives.
Clusters Awarded Sanction Letters
Five clusters across Assam were awarded sanction letters under the Amar Alohi scheme, marking a significant milestone in the promotion of grassroots tourism development. These clusters include:
- Dima Hasao Adventure Association (Dima Hasao)
- Umswai Valley Green & Clean Protection Committee (West Karbi Anglong)
- Dichang Welfare Foundation/Siupaatphaa Social Foundation (Charaideo)
- Dihing Patkai SHG (Dibrugarh)
- Chiram Social Foundation Deori Community (Majuli)
Transformative Impact on Local Communities
Speaking at the event, Honourable Jayanta Mallabaruah emphasized the transformative impact of the scheme on local communities. The Amar Alohi scheme not only generates economic opportunities but also fosters a sense of pride and ownership among the residents, thereby contributing to the overall socio-economic development of the region.
Key Features and Benefits
Capital Subsidy
Beneficiaries of the Amar Alohi Rural Home-Stay Scheme stand to gain substantially from a capital subsidy covering 90% of the total project cost, up to a maximum of 1 crore. This financial assistance is aimed at facilitating the construction of new homestay units, thereby enhancing local infrastructure and tourism facilities.
Promotional Subsidy
In addition to capital subsidies, the scheme offers a promotional subsidy covering 50% of the total promotional cost incurred by the community-based tourism organization, up to a maximum of 2.5 lakh per year for 5 years. This support aims to bolster the visibility and marketing efforts of the homestay units, attracting a steady influx of tourists and boosting local economies.
Operational Subsidy
To incentivize operational excellence, the Amar Alohi scheme provides an operational subsidy of up to Rs. 2.5 lakh per year to groups that achieve a minimum of 100 paid room nights by guests annually, for 5 years. This performance-based incentive encourages the efficient management and successful operation of the homestay units, ensuring a memorable experience for tourists.
Compliance and Monitoring
The issuance of sanction letters is subject to compliance with the terms and conditions of the scheme, including the execution of an agreement with ATDC. This agreement, valid for seven years, encompasses provisions for unit usage, maintenance of standards, and participation in training programs.
The Amar Alohi Rural Home-Stay Scheme is a testament to Assam’s commitment to sustainable tourism and community empowerment. By fostering partnerships between government agencies, local communities, and tourists, the scheme paves the way for inclusive growth and socio-economic development.
Assam Tourism Development Corporation Ltd remains steadfast in its mission to promote sustainable tourism and empower local communities in Assam, ensuring a brighter, more prosperous future for all.
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