Goa Caravan & Homestay policy out big sops for establishments, infra
Under the new policies, the first 100 homestays will get INR 2L grant and up to 20L for
caravan infra. Additionally, the initial 100 Bed & Breakfast establishments that have
successfully completed one year and are registered with the tourism department can cla
reimbursement of INR 1,000 registration fee. Property and road taxes will also be subject
reimbursement. The new Carvan policy allows the private operators to establish standalo
caravan parks at scenic locations.
In a move aimed at elevating Goa's tourism sector beyond its beaches
and embracing a perspective focused on 'quality over quantity' tourism,
the state government of Goa officially launched two highly anticipated
policies on Tuesday including Caravan Tourism Policy and the Homestay
Bed & Breakfast Policy.
Announcing the set of incentives, Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte
said that the initial 100 homestays as part of the Homestay Bed &
Breakfast Policy, will be eligible for reimbursements of up to INR 2 lakh
for expenses incurred on furniture and furnishings. To avail of this
benefit, homestay owners must make their purchases from vendors
approved by the Department of Handicrafts, Textiles, and Coir.
“The initial 100 Bed & Breakfast establishments that have successfully
completed one year of operation and are registered with the tourism
department will also qualify for a reimbursement of the INR 1,000
registration fee during the policy's inaugural year,” announced Khaunte.
Khaunte also disclosed that property and road taxes will be subject to
reimbursement. Additionally, homestay operators will have their
electricity and water tariffs waived, similar to domestic connections.
Also, high-speed internet connectivity will be extended to Goa's
hinterlands, which will attract digital nomads and enhance the overall
rural travel experience in the state, as per the tourism minister.Goa's tourism department will offer comprehensive support to these
homestays, providing them with valuable exposure through the official
website and various promotional channels.
Additionally, the government has forged a strategic partnership with
Airbnb, a renowned vacation rental company, to champion the
Homestay and Bed & Breakfast policy. The particular focus, said
Khaunte, is on preserving historic Goan houses and mansions, located in
the remote areas.Also present during the launch, Goa’s Chief Minister Pramod Sawant
highlighted the policy's potential to empower women entrepreneurs and
lead tourists to the state's hinterlands. “The tourists have displayed a
growing interest in rural areas, particularly during the rainy season. Also,
the Caravan Tourism Policy launching today is set to provide travellers
with an enhanced means to explore Goa, further fostering adventure
tourism opportunities and offering a more enriching journey through the
region,” he added.
The Caravan Tourism Policy was also launched alongside the homestay
policy. “Encouraging an alternative approach to travel, this policy is
tailored to enable tourists to explore the depths of Goa beyond its
stunning beaches, emphasising a commitment to 'quality over quantity'
tourism experiences,” expressed Khaunte.
Under this policy, a fund of INR 20 lakhs will be allocated to subsidise
the development of essential infrastructure for caravan parking facilities.
Also, for the first 10 registered caravans, 25 per cent of motor vehicle tax
will be reimbursed and the other following will also be eligible for
reimbursements ranging between 10 to 15 per cent.
As per the announcement, both the policies are in effect for five years.
Chief Minister Sawant said that these policies provide a unique platform
to spotlight Goa's rich culture, its breathtaking natural beauty, and the
enduring traditions that have been cherished for generations. “These
policies will also help create jobs and boost the economy,” he said.
