The Maharashtra government’s department of tourism (DoT) is expected to issue policies for homestays and vacation houses in the near future. That is, if someone has a large home and wants to rent it to a tourist, they can simply do so. According to a source close to the Department of Transportation, the draft policy will be discussed and approved at the upcoming cabinet meeting.
“Even today, many offer similar services, but owing to a lack of policy, they face some or all forms of harassment from local residents and goons,” the insider stated.
They demand money on the pretext that they are doing some illegal work. The owners also in fear fall prey to their demand,” the source said.
The objective of bringing this policy is also to provide source of income to local people. For instance, if a tourist wants to stay in a village the local homestay provider can do so with valid permission and earn money. It will promote tourism and offer them a source of income. Besides, it will exchange the culture, cuisine and other interesting learnings to the visitors.
Currently, a few private agencies are already in such business however with a policy in place more people will get involved, said the source. The DoT will provide a proper licence to the homestay or vacation stay. Moreover, the place will have proper signage and boards of Maharashtra Tourism so that they do not face any trouble, added the source.
Already such facilities are available in other states such as Himachal Pradesh. Maharashtra having such policy will enhance tourism in local and regional areas, the DoT officials believe. Besides, tourists who do not wish to stay in a hotel or resort may opt for homestay or vacation homes (i.e farmhouses) in affordable rates, according to the department of Tourism of Maharashtra.
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