Uttar Pradesh Launches First-of-its-Kind Farm Stay Scheme to Boost Agri-Tourism 

In a pioneering move, the Yogi Adityanath-led government in Uttar Pradesh has introduced a groundbreaking farm stay tourism scheme aimed at transforming rural areas into vibrant cultural and economic hubs. This initiative, the first of its kind in the state, seeks to promote agri-tourism by offering visitors an authentic experience of village life while creating new income opportunities for farmers and rural communities.

A Shift Towards Authentic Rural Experiences

This new program goes beyond traditional hospitality and homestays, requiring farm stays to be developed on or near active farms. "The initiative is about transforming our villages into vibrant centers of culture, livelihood, and learning," said Uttar Pradesh Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh. "Tourists today are eager to escape concrete jungles and experience authentic farm life—from milking cows at dawn to sharing meals in rural kitchens. We are ready to provide that warmth, simplicity, and authenticity." 

To ensure a genuine and immersive experience, each facility must meet specific criteria. A minimum of two lettable rooms and a reception area are required, along with arrangements for hands-on activities. Tourists will have the chance to engage in activities like milking cows, harvesting crops, horticulture, and traditional cooking with farming families.

Comprehensive Package of Incentives

The initiative is supported by a comprehensive package of incentives designed to attract both small and large-scale investors. According to reports from the Economic Times Travel, the key financial incentives include:

• Capital Investment Subsidy: A tiered subsidy structure ranging from 10% to 25%, with a cap of up to ₹40 crore, depending on the project's size.

• Additional Subsidies: An extra subsidy of up to 5% is available for women entrepreneurs, investors from SC/ST/Backward Classes, and projects in designated "focus tourism destinations."

• Interest Subsidy: A 5% interest subsidy is offered on bank loans up to ₹5 crore for a period of five years.

• Tax Exemptions: Eligible projects can receive a 100% exemption on stamp duty, land conversion fees, and development charges, significantly reducing upfront costs.

• Employment-Linked Incentives: Units that employ 50 or more local workers are eligible for a 100% reimbursement of the employer's EPF contribution for five years. Additionally, there is support of ₹1,500 per month per worker for units that are designed to be friendly to differently-abled individuals.

Principal Secretary Tourism, Mukesh Meshram, emphasized that the project's focus is on "ensuring real benefits for rural households." He added that by blending cultural authenticity with modern tourism infrastructure, the scheme will not only strengthen rural economies but also reconnect urban visitors with India's agricultural heritage.

A Catalyst for Rural Development

This scheme is envisioned as more than just a tourism project; it's a long-term driver of rural development. By providing farmers with an alternative source of income, the initiative will help diversify rural livelihoods and reduce dependence solely on crop yields. It is designed to generate rural jobs, empower women, and preserve local heritage, all while promoting sustainable and eco-friendly tourism practices.

The launch of the farm stay scheme is expected to give a significant boost to both the tourism and agriculture sectors. This vision aligns with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's broader roadmap for a "Viksit Uttar Pradesh" by 2047, where tourism plays a crucial role in holistic rural development. The government's focus on sustainability and livelihood generation is set to position Uttar Pradesh as a leading agri-tourism destination in India, offering travelers a unique glimpse into the everyday life of India’s villages.