Homestay Entrepreneurship Program launched at Dara, Srinagar

Srinagar, Nov 28: A Homestay Entrepreneurship Training Program was inaugurated today in Dara, Harwan. The Program is sponsored by the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) and co-sponsored by J&K Bank under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative and implemented by a local NGO, JK Developmental Action Group. The program is implemented in close coordination with the Department of Tourism J&K which is one of the key stakeholders in the promotion of Homestay as a business concept.

The inauguration witnessed the active participation of 30 enthusiastic trainees from Fakir Gujri area of Srinagar.

The ceremony was attended Aadil, Assistant Manager, SIDBI as Chief Guest who commended the initiative, emphasizing its role in not only promoting sustainable tourism but also in empowering the local community to become active contributors to the region’s economic growth.

Other eminent speakers on the occasion include: Farooq Kuthoo, President travel Agents Association of Kashmir shared insights into the tourism potential of the region and the transformative impact that well-managed homestays can have on the overall visitor experience.

Advocate Nadeem Qadri, shared his value experience and efforts in the direction of creating green spaces and empowering local communities through sustainable initiatives He also Provided legal insights, ensuring trainees are well-versed in the legal aspects of running homestays, creating a secure business environment. He emphasised the funders of the program to embed the elements of eco-friendly and sustainable practices and aim for holistic development of the trainees rather than limiting the initiative to homestay business only

Earlier, Ashraf Wani from JK DAG which is training partner for the project welcomed the guests and the trainees to the event and gave the overview of the programme. He insisted upon the trainees to attend the month long training with full seriousness and dedication. He assured them all handholding support beyond the completion of the training.

The active participation of 30 trainees from Fakir Gujri underscores the local community’s eagerness to embrace entrepreneurship and contribute to the growth of tourism in the region. The Homestay Entrepreneurship Training Program is designed to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to establish and manage successful homestay ventures.

Mr Adil in his inaugural address, expressed appreciation for the strong turnout of trainees and encouraged them to make the most of the program, viewing it as an opportunity not only for personal growth but also for positively impacting the local economy.

This initiative, with the collaborative efforts of government bodies, financial institutions, industry experts, and the local community, is poised to make a significant impact on the tourism landscape of the area, organisers said.