NITI Aayog said on Friday that it has launched a report titled “Rethinking Homestays: Navigating Policy Pathways” in collaboration with the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI). The report, according to the apex public policy think tank, offers a strategic roadmap for homestays and bed-and-breakfasts (BnBs) in India’s tourism industry.

The report has drawn insights from aggregators, hosts, and policymakers—incorporating extensive feedback from key stakeholders—and draws home the idea that homestays provide travellers a culturally immersive experience, while generating employment and fostering local entrepreneurship at the same time. According to a NITI Aayog press release, the report calls for “light-touch, transparent regulatory frameworks” that keep in mind the safety of the tourists and homeowners, while also protecting local heritage and supporting inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

Homestays have the unique ability to blend cultural authenticity with livelihood opportunities, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, the report avers. The report is also a clarion call for flexibility in policy approaches, building capacity, and integrating digital platforms into the homestay experience to empower tourists and foster a culture of trust. The report also features case studies and best practices on a state level to present scalable ideas for homestay governance and development.

“To fully integrate local communities into the development and promotion of homestays, there is a pressing need for simplified and inclusive regulatory interventions. Reducing entry barriers and harmonising efforts across governance levels is critical,” said Suman Bery, vice chairman, NITI Aayog, in his message at the beginning of the report. The report also underlines the importance of public-private partnerships in shaping the homestay ecosystem.

“Developed through extensive consultations, the report presents actionable recommendations for policymakers, industry stakeholders and local communities, with the aim of building a resilient, inclusive and heritage-conscious homestay sector in India,” reads a press release from the NITI Aayog.

The report was released by Bery, in the presence of Yugal Kishore Joshi, Programme Director, NITI Aayog. Senior government officials from the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Culture, and states like Goa, Kerala, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh were mentioned in the report. Also present at the launch were industry representatives from IAMAI, ISPP, MakeMyTrip, Airbnb, Chase India and The Convergence Foundation.