Uttar Pradesh is set to transform its rural heartland into a hub for agri-tourism with the launch of a new farm stay initiative that blends agriculture with hospitality. Spearheaded by the Directorate of Tourism, the program invites investors to develop and operate farm stay accommodations across the state, offering visitors an authentic taste of village life.
Under the scheme, farm stays will be built on or near working farms, each with at least two rentable rooms and a reception area. What sets them apart is the immersive experience they promise: guests can engage in activities such as crop cultivation, horticulture, dairy farming, animal husbandry, and fishpond maintenance. For travelers, the villages themselves become the primary attraction—offering not just accommodation but a chance to participate in everyday rural traditions.
Incentives for Rural Investment
To encourage participation, the government has rolled out a suite of financial incentives. These include subsidies on capital investment, interest relief on bank loans, and complete exemptions from stamp duty, land conversion fees, and development charges. Employers hiring more than 50 local workers will also receive reimbursement for contributions to the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF). Additional benefits have been earmarked for women entrepreneurs and those from SC/ST/Backward Class communities.
Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh described the initiative as more than just accommodation:
“This program is about turning villages into vibrant centers of culture and learning. Today’s travelers seek authentic, nature-based experiences—from milking cows at dawn to sharing meals in rustic kitchens—and we want to offer them that warmth and cultural immersion.”
Strengthening the Rural Economy
Several villages with high tourism potential have already been identified for development under the program. For farmers and rural entrepreneurs, the initiative provides a unique opportunity to diversify income sources while preserving traditional ways of life. It is expected to generate employment, support local crafts, and reconnect urban visitors with India’s agrarian roots.
Mukesh Kumar Meshram, Principal Secretary, Tourism, emphasized that the initiative would “deliver tangible benefits to rural households while meeting global hospitality standards.”
Transforming Uttar Pradesh’s Tourism Landscape
Uttar Pradesh recorded 650 million tourist visits in 2024, cementing its status as one of India’s most-visited states. The farm stay program adds a fresh dimension to its tourism portfolio, positioning the state as a pioneer in rural tourism. By linking agriculture with travel, officials believe Uttar Pradesh could soon emerge as India’s rural tourism capital—offering sustainable growth for local communities while providing travelers with an enriching, off-the-beaten-path experience.
