Uttar Pradesh has taken a bold step to reimagine rural tourism by launching its first-of-its-kind farm stay initiative. The scheme is designed to create immersive agri-tourism experiences where visitors can stay on or near working farms, participate in traditional farming practices, enjoy local cuisine, and witness village life up close.

Speaking on the launch, Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh emphasized that this initiative is not just about building accommodations but about transforming villages into centers of culture, livelihood, and authentic rural hospitality. “Tourists today are eager to escape concrete jungles and experience farm life – from milking cows at dawn to dining in a rural kitchen. Uttar Pradesh is ready to deliver that warmth and authenticity,” he said.

Blending Rural Charm with Modern Comfort

Principal Secretary of Tourism, Mukesh Meshram, noted that the project aims to reconnect urban visitors with India’s agrarian roots while strengthening rural economies. Each farm stay will meet global standards of hospitality, with modern amenities complementing authentic experiences such as agriculture, horticulture, dairy farming, fishponds, and traditional village activities.

To qualify, farm stays must be separate from the owner’s residence, offer at least two lettable rooms, and include a reception area. This ensures a professional yet homely atmosphere that preserves the charm of rural life.

Attractive Incentives for Investors

The Uttar Pradesh government is providing a wide range of financial incentives to attract entrepreneurs, investors, and farmers into this initiative.

  • Capital Subsidy: Up to 25% for projects between ₹10 lakh and ₹10 crore, scaling down to 10% for investments above ₹500 crore, with a maximum support of ₹40 crore.

  • Additional Subsidy: Women entrepreneurs, SC/ST/Backward Class investors, and projects in focus tourism destinations will receive up to 5% extra subsidy, capped at 30%.

  • Interest Subsidy: A 5% subsidy on bank loans up to ₹5 crore, available for five years.

  • Full Exemptions: Eligible projects will be free from stamp duty, land conversion charges, and development fees.

  • Employment Support: The government will reimburse the employer’s EPF contribution for units employing 50 or more local workers.

  • Inclusive Growth: Units hiring differently-abled workers will receive ₹1,500 per month per worker, up to five workers per unit.

 

Empowering Villages and Local Communities

Several villages with high tourism potential have already been identified to pioneer this scheme. Beyond tourism, the initiative will diversify farmers’ income, preserve traditional lifestyles, and promote local crafts by linking rural artisans and entrepreneurs directly with tourists.

This means visitors will not only stay in scenic villages but also experience local art, handicrafts, cuisine, and cultural performances, creating a cycle of empowerment and growth for rural communities.

A Vision for the Future

The farm stay initiative is expected to place Uttar Pradesh at the forefront of agri-tourism in India. By offering tourists a chance to immerse themselves in authentic farm life while ensuring investors receive strong financial backing, the scheme strikes a balance between heritage, hospitality, and economic growth.

It is not just about building farm houses; it is about weaving rural stories into experiences that visitors will carry back with them, creating lasting impressions of the simplicity and richness of India’s countryside.

 

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