Uttar Pradesh Tourism has taken a big step towards positioning the state as India’s rural tourism hub by hosting the Rural Tourism Conclave 2025 at Indira Gandhi Pratishthan, Lucknow. The event, led by Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh, brought together policymakers, experts, and innovators to build a roadmap for village-led tourism.
Over 40 farm stay and homestay operators were honoured for redefining hospitality and promoting authentic rural experiences. Minister Singh highlighted that villages are the soul of India’s culture and traditions, adding that rural tourism is central to Viksit Bharat @2047, in line with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Tourism Principal Secretary Mukesh Kumar Meshram announced that 234 villages have been identified as tourism hubs, with more than 750 homestays in the pipeline. Special Secretary Tourism Eesha Priya shared details of incentive schemes including 25% subsidies, stamp duty exemptions, and youth training programs to empower rural communities.
The conclave also featured expert sessions on natural farming, agri-tourism models, sustainability, and investment opportunities, with speakers like Pandurang Taware, Annadani Malligavad, and Pankaj Arora.
As a follow-up, UP Tourism will organize a FAM Trip showcasing rural experiences, including farmstays, artisan interactions, and traditional cuisine, beginning with a cultural welcome at Chandrika Devi Mandir.
With its focus on culture, sustainability, and empowerment, the Rural Tourism Conclave 2025 aims to make Uttar Pradesh the frontrunner in India’s rural tourism movement.
