Tourism – Tribal Homestay Initiative Gains Momentum in Andhra Tribal Areas
Tourism – The Alluri Sitarama Raju district administration has stepped up preparations for the rollout of the Tribal Homestay initiative in selected tribal regions under the centrally backed Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan programme. The project is aimed at creating sustainable income opportunities for tribal families while encouraging visitors to experience indigenous traditions, culture and local lifestyles.
District Officials Push for Faster Cluster Identification
During a review meeting conducted at the Collectorate conference hall, Joint Collector Tirumani Sripooja instructed Mandal Tahsildars and Mandal Parishad Development Officers to complete the process of identifying suitable clusters by May 13. Officials have also been asked to prepare and submit detailed implementation plans to ensure the scheme moves forward without delay.
The administration is focusing on identifying locations that can support tourism-based activities while also benefiting local tribal communities. Authorities believe the programme can create employment opportunities and improve economic conditions in remote villages.
Pilot Phase to Cover Key Tribal Regions
As part of the first phase, three important clusters are being selected for the pilot project. Lambasingi in Chintapalli mandal has already been chosen as one of the locations. Officials are now in the process of finalising two more clusters in Araku and Dumbriguda mandals. Tribal habitations located in Ananthagiri mandal will also be included under the scheme.
The selected regions are known for their scenic beauty, cool climate and growing tourism appeal, making them suitable for community-based hospitality projects. Authorities are expecting the initiative to strengthen local tourism while preserving tribal identity and traditions.
Field Inspections Ordered Before Final Approval
The Joint Collector directed officials to conduct ground-level inspections before confirming the final clusters. Departments have been instructed to assess tourism prospects, road connectivity, security arrangements, infrastructure availability and accessibility for visitors.
Officials are also expected to evaluate nearby attractions and the readiness of local communities to participate in tourism activities. The administration wants the selected areas to offer a safe and comfortable experience for tourists without disturbing the cultural and environmental balance of tribal villages.
Employment Opportunities for Tribal Women and Youth
Under the Tribal Homestay programme, unemployed tribal women and young people from selected villages will be encouraged to host tourists in their homes. The initiative is designed to help families earn income directly through accommodation services and related tourism activities.
Applications are currently being invited from eligible beneficiaries interested in joining the scheme. Authorities believe the programme can help reduce unemployment in tribal regions while promoting locally managed tourism.
Financial Support Fully Backed by Central Government
The scheme includes substantial financial assistance for beneficiaries and village-level infrastructure development. Eligible participants can receive up to Rs 5 lakh for constructing new accommodation rooms. Existing houses selected for the programme can obtain Rs 3 lakh for renovation and repair work.
In addition, community-based tourism infrastructure projects will receive financial support of Rs 5 lakh. The entire initiative is being funded by the Central government as part of its broader tribal welfare and rural development efforts.
The review meeting was attended by ITDA Project Officer Aditya Verma, District Tourism Officer Das, and officials from Chintapalli, Hukumpeta, Dumbriguda, Araku and Ananthagiri mandals.