State launches ‘Go Homestay’ portal

Bhubaneswar: Deputy chief minister Pravati Parida on Thursday launched a ‘Go-Homestay' portal, which aims to ease the application process for those interested in setting up homestays in the state.The portal is a component of the Odisha Homestay Establishment scheme, which was notified by the state govt last year. Parida, who also holds the tourism portfolio, said the portal will promote transparency, accessibility and ease of doing business for aspiring homestay owners."Setting up homestays is targeted at boosting community-based tourism in the state and providing an opportunity for tourists to experience the local way of life. While the scheme will remain valid until March 2030, the department targets opening of 450 homestays over the entire scheme duration," Parida said.Under the scheme, the tourism department will financially incentivise the setting up of new homestays and the operation of existing homestays. Setting up new homestays became the need of the hour in the wake of a shortage of tourist accommodation in several parts of the state.Addressing the gathering, Parida said the portal will manage the entire application process and help applicants track the registration and incentive provisions. For proper implementation of the homestay scheme, the tourism department will form two committees: a district-level homestay committee and a state-level homestay committee.Besides, a dedicated homestay cell will be established in the department to track the implementation process. The applications will be verified by the district-level committee and then by the state-level committee. All applications under this scheme shall be processed through an online system to ensure transparency, uniformity and time-bound implementation.The deputy CM said that homestays are not merely accommodation facilities but gateways to Odisha's rich culture, traditions and warm hospitality. She further highlighted that the initiative aligns with the state govt's vision of inclusive growth by empowering rural households, women and local entrepreneurs through tourism-led development.