West Bengal government ready with the new homestay policy

KOLKATA: West Bengal government is ready with the new homestay policy which will be placed in the next state Cabinet meeting, state tourism minister Goutam Deb said.

The idea was conceptualised by chief minister Mamata Banerjee while she was travelling in North Bengal. She had instructed the state tourism department to frame the policy as soon as possible.

“The homestay permits tourists to board and lodge with local residents and get an instant feel of the society and culture there. This gives a chance for the residents to have a mean of livelihood as well,” the minister said.

“The intention is to spread the homestay culture in Bengal only for a growing footfall of foreign tourists,” Deb added.

The families involved in the homestay would be brought under Bread & Breakfast Scheme, which will help them by having a tie-up with Incredible India. Also, plans are going on to start community development and organic farming in places like Darjeeling, Lamahata, Purulia, Bankura, Mandarmoni and other places.