Himachal Cabinet’s new Home Stay Policy aims to boost self-employment opportunities
The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet’s decision to notify the Home Stay Rules-2024 is set to create new self-employment opportunities for the people of the state. Under the newly introduced provisions, Himachalis will be given priority in this scheme. Additionally, applicants will no longer require No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the Himachal Pradesh Pollution Control Board, local bodies, or other departments. This was shared by Chief Minister’s Principal Advisor (Media), Naresh Chauhan, during an informal interaction with journalists.
He highlighted that Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has personally taken the initiative to simplify this scheme, aiming to provide better self-employment prospects for the state’s unemployed youth.
Boosting Tourism and Culture in Rural and Urban Areas
Naresh Chauhan emphasized that the Home Stay Scheme will promote tourism activities in rural areas while preserving and showcasing their culture. It will also provide self-employment opportunities to local residents by connecting them with the tourism sector. Urban youth are also expected to benefit from this initiative.
To ensure accessibility, separate fee structures have been established for rural and urban areas. However, registration with the tourism department is mandatory, and registrations must be renewed every three years.
Chauhan Criticizes BJP’s Propaganda
Responding to the BJP’s allegations, Chauhan stated that there is no “loot” in Himachal Pradesh, as claimed. He urged the BJP to introspect on how it has allowed national wealth to benefit its close friends and favored industrialists. He supported Priyanka Gandhi’s recent statements in Parliament, asserting that they highlighted the truth about how prominent businessmen like Adani have gained proximity to the Prime Minister during the BJP’s tenure.
Congress’ Contribution to India’s Development
Chauhan reiterated the Congress party’s significant role in steering the country toward development post-independence. He pointed out that successive Congress governments have laid a strong foundation for industrial and economic growth. However, he warned that the current trend of favoring capitalists could lead to long-term harm for the country.
