True Potential of Rural Tourism
- Lies in experiencing open areas, nature, and folk culture.
- Rural India acts as a custodian of nature, but rapid urbanization threatens this.
- Rural tourism can create entrepreneur-based jobs and discourage urban migration.
Nature Tourism Activities
- Nature walks: Showcase real rural life with authentic experiences (e.g., interacting with cattle).
- Volunteer tourism: Tourists contribute to villages (teaching, and creating art) while enjoying their stay.
Benefits of Rural Tourism
- Low-carbon development strategy: Reduces pollution, emissions, and energy demand in cities.
- Sustainable carbon dioxide sink: Creates a natural way to absorb carbon dioxide.
Amenitisation
- Creating an enabling environment for rural tourism.
- Multistakeholder engagement involving various parties.
Three categories of amenities:
1. Affirmative Amenities (Essential)
- Access to healthcare
- Sanitation and waste management
- Safe drinking water
- Green Power
- Street lighting
- Smart security solutions
2. Supportive Amenities (Enhance Experience)
- Digital services
- Travel connectivity
- Awareness of local customs and traditions for tourists
- Access to conveniences (shops, ATMs)
3. Value Adding Amenities (Memorable Experience)
- Digital skills for village hosts to interact with tourists
- Hospitality skills for professional guest treatment
- “Village Kutir Udyam”: Local businesses offering crafts, food, wellness experiences, and outdoor activities.
- Local community connection: Connecting tourists with volunteer groups.
Government Schemes Promoting Tourism
- Swadesh Darshan Scheme (2014-15): Develop themed tourist circuits focused on value, competitiveness, and sustainability.
- PRASHAD Scheme (2014-15): Improves pilgrimage and heritage destinations.
- Adopt a Heritage Scheme (2017): Encourages public-private partnerships to improve amenities at tourist sites.
Conclusion
- Rural tourism can transform villages. Stakeholders must work together to ensure sustainable development through rural tourism initiatives.