Team Goemkarponn
Porvorim: Goa’s Tourism Department has officially rolled out the Homestay and Bed & Breakfast Scheme, aiming to empower women entrepreneurs, create rural livelihood opportunities, and diversify the state’s tourism beyond its famed beaches. The scheme was launched by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant in the presence of Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte, Bicholim MLA Chandrakant Shetye, Mayem MLA Premendra Shet, and senior tourism officials at the PAC Hall, Secretariat, Porvorim.
The initiative, earlier framed as a policy, has now been strengthened into a scheme offering both fiscal and non-fiscal incentives, simplified registration, and a quality classification system. Eligible establishments in the talukas of Sattari, Sanguem, Dharbandora, Bicholim, Canacona, Ponda, and Quepem will receive a one-time grant of ₹2 lakh along with marketing support, training, listings on Goa Tourism platforms, and subsidised participation in domestic trade fairs.
Speaking at the launch, CM Sawant said the scheme focuses on women-led homestays and will showcase Goa’s hinterlands, including access to wildlife sanctuaries and village destinations. “Through this initiative, we aim to empower women operators and give them better platforms to promote their unique offerings,” he said.
Tourism Minister Khaunte added that the scheme aligns with the government’s ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ vision. “Most homestays are run by women. By supporting them with infrastructure grants, training, and MoUs with platforms like Airbnb, we’re giving a strong push to community-based tourism,” he said.
Director of Tourism Kedar Naik highlighted that the scheme reflects a shift toward inclusive, decentralised, and regenerative tourism. “This is about empowering local households, protecting Goa’s culture, and reducing dependency on coastal tourism,” he said.
The scheme is valid for five years and may be extended. Applicants can register via www.goaonline.gov.in or through offline modes. Homestays will be classified as Gold or Silver based on services and will undergo regular monitoring.
By drawing visitors to Goa’s villages, natural heritage, and cultural experiences, the government hopes to ease pressure on coastal belts while opening new economic avenues for rural communities.
The launch event also saw presentations from the Department of Information Technology on its new schemes, followed by a vote of thanks to dignitaries and stakeholders.
