Homeowners near Bihar’s captivating tourist destinations now have a golden opportunity to turn their properties into lucrative income generators. In August, the Bihar government unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at residents residing close to 28 prominent tourist locations scattered across 15 districts, including the historical cities of Gaya, Nalanda, Rohtas, and Champaran. This program, aptly named the ‘Mukhymantri Homestay/Bed and Breakfast Protsahan Yojana,’ launched on August 6th, targets homeowners within a 5 km radius of rural tourist hotspots and a 10 km radius in urban areas. Participants can transform up to six rooms into homestays, or if managed by a promoter, into fully-fledged bed-and-breakfast establishments. The government is extending a helping hand by covering interest on loans up to ₹2.5 lakh for room renovations, with interest repayment spanning five years.
The initiative encompasses renowned tourist attractions such as the revered Mahabodhi Temple, the exhilarating Rajgir Nature Safari, the wildlife haven of Valmiki Tiger Reserve, and the historical ruins of Vikramshila University. The government envisions a phased rollout, initially aiming to establish 1,000 rooms within this program. This ambitious endeavor reflects Bihar’s commitment to strengthening its tourism sector. The state is diligently identifying suitable land for developing new tourist facilities, reflecting a steady rise in tourist visits, which surged from 2.89 crore in 2015 to 8.21 crore in 2023, including an influx of international visitors. This initiative strategically alleviates pressure on existing hotels, fostering eco-tourism and providing locals with a supplemental income stream. At the same time, it offers tourists a budget-friendly and culturally immersive lodging experience.
