Goa government has launched a new Homestay and Bed & Breakfast Scheme to improve rural tourism and provide stable income opportunities for local families. Under this scheme, selected homestay owners in specific rural talukas will get a one-time grant of ₹2 lakh. As per the official portal of Goa Online, there are about 26690 registered hotels, guest houses & homestays (combined) in Goa.
The scheme focuses on helping families, especially women, who run homestays in lesser-explored areas of Goa. Along with the grant, they will also get training, marketing support, and online promotion through official Goa Tourism platforms. This Homestay and Bed & Breakfast scheme is valid for five years and can be extended if it benefits enough people.
How to Apply Online for Homestay and Bed & Breakfast Scheme
Go to the official portal goaonline.gov.in and go to the “Services>All Services” section.
Then, under the Tourism department services, click on the application for registration of “Hotel, Guest House, Homestay / Bed & Breakfast” option.
Now, if you are not an existing owner of the homestay, then you first have to register for a new homestay by creating your account on goaonline.gov.in and then fill in the application form with details about your homestay.
If you are already running a registered homestay, you need to login to your Goa online account and click on “Know Your Schemes“.
Under the schemes list, you will see “Homestay and Bed & Breakfast Scheme“, click on that and attach all required documents and submit the application.
You can also apply offline for this scheme by visiting the tourism department office. Interested applicants can also visit the CSC centers to apply for the scheme.
Once verified, eligible applicants will receive the grant amount directly in their bank account.
Also Read: Goa Vidya Laxmi Scheme Application Form PDF
Target Areas and Beneficiaries
The scheme is open to homestay owners from the following talukas of Goa: Sattari, Sanguem, Dharbandora, Bicholim, Canacona, Ponda, and Quepem.
Benefits of this Scheme
- ₹2 lakh one-time financial grant for eligible homestay owners
- Marketing support and promotion on Goa Tourism platforms
- Skill training and exposure visits to improve service quality
- Partnership with online booking platforms like Airbnb
- Five-year scheme duration with scope for extension
Quick Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Homestay and Bed & Breakfast Scheme |
| State | Goa |
| Announced By | CM Pramod Sawant |
| Financial Support | ₹2 lakh one-time grant |
| Beneficiary Areas | Sattari, Sanguem, Dharbandora, Bicholim, Canacona, Ponda, Quepem |
| Main Focus | Rural tourism development and helping women homestay operators |
| Other Benefits | Training, marketing support, listing on tourism platforms |
| Scheme Duration | 5 years (extendable) |
| Registration | Online & offline at goaonline.gov.in |
Scheme’s Role in Goa’s Tourism Vision
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte said the scheme matches Goa’s “Beyond Beaches” vision, where tourists are encouraged to explore the culture, villages, and nature of Goa. By improving rural homestays, the state aims to balance tourism income between urban and rural areas, while giving visitors a more real Goan experience.
FAQs
Who can apply for this scheme?
Any local resident of the selected talukas who owns and operates a registered homestay can apply.
Is the scheme only for women?
No, but women homestay operators are given special attention and encouragement.
Which talukas are covered under the scheme?
No, the scheme is currently limited to Sattari, Sanguem, Dharbandora, Bicholim, Canacona, Ponda, and Quepem.
Will I get help in promoting my homestay?
Yes, Goa Tourism will promote your homestay on its platforms and train you in hospitality.