The Directorate of Tourism, Uttar Pradesh, has launched the state’s first-ever farm stay investment scheme, inviting investors to develop tourist accommodations on or near working farms. The initiative aims to position Uttar Pradesh as India’s agri-tourism leader by offering authentic rural experiences that showcase farming life, village culture, and countryside hospitality.
Under the scheme, farm stays must feature at least two lettable rooms, a reception area, and activities like farming, horticulture, dairy, fishponds, animal husbandry, or guided farm tours. To attract investors, the government has announced capital subsidies up to 25%, additional benefits for women and marginalized groups, interest subsidies on loans, and 100% exemptions on stamp duty, land conversion, and development charges. Units employing 50+ locals will also receive employment subsidies, with extra support for differently-abled friendly units.
Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh said the programme will transform villages into “vibrant centers of culture, livelihood, and learning,” while Principal Secretary Mukesh Kumar Meshram emphasized its potential to generate rural jobs, support crafts, and diversify farmer incomes.
With 65 crore tourist visits in 2024, Uttar Pradesh is already a top destination. This farm stay programme is expected to further strengthen its tourism network by turning farms into destinations and villages into cultural hubs, laying the foundation for the state to become India’s rural tourism capital.
