Odisha Unveils 'Go-Homestay' Portal to Streamline Homestay Applications
In a significant move to enhance tourism infrastructure, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida officially launched the 'Go-Homestay' portal on Thursday in Bhubaneswar. This innovative digital platform is designed to simplify and expedite the application process for individuals interested in establishing homestays across the state of Odisha.
Boosting Transparency and Accessibility in Tourism
Parida, who also serves as the tourism minister, emphasized that the portal will foster greater transparency, improve accessibility, and enhance the ease of doing business for aspiring homestay owners. "The portal will manage the entire application process, allowing applicants to easily track their registration status and incentive provisions," she stated during the launch event.
The initiative is a key component of the Odisha Homestay Establishment scheme, which was formally notified by the state government last year. This scheme is strategically aimed at promoting community-based tourism, offering tourists an authentic experience of local lifestyles while addressing the critical shortage of tourist accommodations in various regions of Odisha.
Strategic Goals and Implementation Framework
Under this ambitious scheme, the tourism department has set a target to open 450 homestays by March 2030, with the scheme remaining valid until that date. To ensure proper execution, the department will establish two dedicated committees:
- A district-level homestay committee for initial verification of applications.
- A state-level homestay committee for final approvals and oversight.
Additionally, a specialized homestay cell will be created within the department to monitor the implementation process closely. All applications will be processed through an online system to guarantee transparency, uniformity, and timely completion.
Financial Incentives and Broader Impact
The scheme includes financial incentives to support both the establishment of new homestays and the operation of existing ones. Parida highlighted that homestays are not just accommodation options but serve as gateways to Odisha's rich cultural heritage, traditions, and renowned hospitality.
This initiative aligns with the state government's vision of inclusive growth, empowering rural households, women, and local entrepreneurs through tourism-led development. By leveraging digital tools like the 'Go-Homestay' portal, Odisha aims to create sustainable economic opportunities while preserving its unique cultural identity.
