ITDC and Ministry of Tribal Affairs Launch Capacity Building Programme for Tribal Homestay Owners

Introduction

The India Tourism Development Corporation (ITDC), in collaboration with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, has launched a capacity building programme aimed at strengthening the skills and service standards of tribal homestay owners across India.

Strengthening Community-Based Tourism

The initiative is designed to promote community-based tourism while equipping tribal homestay operators with essential hospitality skills. Conducted at Hotel Samrat, New Delhi, the programme focuses on improving guest experiences, enhancing operational standards, and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities in tribal regions.

The first batch includes 40 participants from Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Gujarat, marking the beginning of a larger nationwide effort.

Structured Training and Skill Development

The programme is being delivered by IHM Ashok under ITDC, providing structured training modules tailored to the needs of homestay operators. The initiative aims to professionalise grassroots hospitality services and align them with evolving traveller expectations.

Release of Homestay Development Manual

A key highlight of the launch was the introduction of the “Tribal Homestay – Operation & Development Manual 2026.” Developed as a practical guide, the manual outlines operational frameworks and best practices for managing homestays effectively.

To ensure wider accessibility, the publication has been made available in multiple languages, including Hindi and Gujarati.

Leadership Perspective

Officials from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs highlighted the growing demand for authentic, nature-based travel experiences and the role of homestays in addressing accommodation gaps while supporting local economies.

Mugdha Sinha, Managing Director of ITDC, emphasised that the initiative aligns with the broader national vision of expanding homestay infrastructure and aims to train 1,500 participants in its initial phase, with a long-term goal of creating a scalable training ecosystem across states.

Collaborative Approach to Sustainable Growth

The programme reflects a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Ministry of Tourism, and ITDC, integrating policy support with on-ground training. It is positioned as a step toward building a sustainable tourism model that empowers local communities while enhancing India’s tourism offerings.

Industry Outlook

With increasing demand for experiential and responsible travel, initiatives like this are expected to play a critical role in expanding India’s tourism ecosystem. By strengthening grassroots hospitality capabilities, the programme supports both inclusive growth and diversification of accommodation supply.