6th September, 2018 -
Siliguri: Homestay, which is the new buzzword in the tourism landscape of Darjeeling-Sikkim region, is set for a major boost.
West Bengal government has decided to divert 50 per cent of the housing grants that it extends to the poor for the development of homestay infrastructure in Darjeeling Hills.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee made the announcement at a public meeting at Chowrasta in Darjeeling this morning. She directed the 15 community development boards that are there in the Hills that now on, 50 of their housing funds should be allocated for homestay.
“Homestay is an effective means to accelerate tourism and ensure livelihood to the local people. Now on, allocate half of your housing funds for the purpose of dwelling for the needy and allocate the remaining half to those who want to develop homestay infrastructure on their residential premises,” the Chief Minister said.
Banerjee recalled that she had inaugurated a homestay at Lamahatta. “Darjeeling need not beg to anyone. Nature is your asset. Make the best use of this for your all-round development,” she said.
The state government gives up to Rs 3-lakh per beneficiary in the economically unsound category to build a dwelling.
Copied From - https://newsmen.in/news/bengal-to-divert-housing-funds-for-homestay-tourism/