Kashmir,November 11,2025-Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, chaired a high-level meeting to review the implementation of the Homestay Policy in Jammu and Kashmir, emphasising the need to boost rural tourism and local entrepreneurship through modern digital and financial interventions.
During the meeting, the Chief Secretary stressed on the creation of a strong digital presence for J&K homestays, including their integration with a unified online booking portal to enhance visibility and accessibility for tourists. He directed departments to streamline processes and ensure that the homestay registration and listing mechanisms are simple, transparent, and technology-driven.
Highlighting the importance of financial empowerment, Dulloo called upon the J&K Bank to introduce a dedicated loan product tailored for homestay owners, encouraging more youth and women to take up tourism-based entrepreneurship.
Officials from the Tourism Department, Rural Development Department, and J&K Bank participated in the review, discussing strategies to expand the network of homestays across picturesque rural and border regions, thereby creating employment opportunities and supporting the local economy.
The Chief Secretary reiterated that the Homestay Policy aims to transform Jammu and Kashmir into a leading destination for sustainable and community-led tourism, while offering visitors an authentic experience of local culture and hospitality.
