Introduction

In India, there's a well-known saying, "Atithi Devo Bhava," meaning "The Guest is God." This belief reflects the deep respect and honor that Indians have for their guests, going to great lengths to ensure their comfort. Indian hospitality is renowned for its warmth and generosity, and many visitors come to India specifically to experience the authentic culture and hospitality. Recently, there has been a shift in tourism preferences, with many travelers opting for homestays over hotels to connect more deeply with local traditions and lifestyles.

In response to this growing trend, the Department of Tourism, Government of Madhya Pradesh, has introduced four innovative schemes that offer homeowners in both urban and rural areas the opportunity to accommodate domestic and international tourists in the extra rooms of their homes. These schemes not only provide visitors with an authentic experience of the rich culture, cuisine, customs, and lifestyle of Madhya Pradesh—often referred to as the Heart of Incredible India—but also create a steady income stream for homeowners and generate employment opportunities in local communities.

To offer travelers an alternative and convenient place to stay, four schemes have been implemented: Homestay, Bed and Breakfast, Gram Stay, and Farm Stay.

Madhya Pradesh Tourism's Homestay Establishment Schemes:

1. Homestay Establishment (Registration and Regulation) Scheme 2010 (Revised 2019)
2. Bed and Breakfast Establishment (Registration and Regulation) Scheme 2019
3. Gram Stay Establishment (Registration and Regulation) Scheme 2019
4. Farm Stay Establishment (Registration and Regulation) Scheme 2019

Objectives:

• To provide affordable accommodation and food services to both domestic and international tourists.
• To offer tourists an authentic introduction to Indian culture and hospitality.
• To provide an opportunity for homeowners to earn extra income and create employment by offering their available rooms to tourists.
• To enhance and develop local-level residential facilities for tourists.
• To expand the availability of tourist accommodations throughout the state via the private sector.

Why Start a Homestay?

• You can earn extra income by renting out additional rooms in your home to tourists.
• If you enjoy interacting with people and sharing your culture, food, clothing, local music, art, and traditions.
• If you practice traditional Indian methods like Yoga, Naturopathy, or run a wellness center and want to offer these services to tourists.
• If your home has at least one and a maximum of six extra rooms, and you're willing to host tourists, the Homestay Schemes are ideal for you.

Homestay Registration Criteria and Process:

A dedicated online registration portal has been developed for the registration of homestays. Property owners can register their units either through the portal themselves or by visiting MP Online kiosks. To apply, visit the website: http://mphomestay.mponline.gov.in

Area:

These schemes are available across Madhya Pradesh.

Highlights:

• Four approved policies: Homestay, Bed & Breakfast, Farm Stay, and Gram Stay.
• Gazette notification of policies completed.
• An easy-to-use online registration portal has been launched.
• An MoU has been signed with Go MMT for booking and promotions.
• Homestays are being listed on platforms like Airbnb and other Online Travel Aggregators.
• District and Destination-level workshops are conducted in collaboration with the District Archaeology, Tourism, and Culture Council (DATCC).
• A comprehensive promotion plan is being developed.

This initiative not only benefits property owners but also helps boost local economies by creating more accommodation options and promoting Madhya Pradesh's rich cultural heritage to a global audience.