Lucknow: UP govt trained homestay operators from 35 cities in entrepreneurial and hospitality skills, aiming to build a network of professionally managed accommodations across the state.The five-day residential training programme, organised by Manyawar Kanshiram Institute of Tourism Management, under tourism department from Jul 14 to 18, equipped operators with skills to run homestays as sustainable tourism enterprises and support the ‘Visit My State’ campaign.Tourism and culture minister Jaiveer Singh said homestay model created new livelihood opportunities in rural areas by enabling educated youth to become entrepreneurs in their own communities and help showcase UP’s culture, traditions and rural life to visitors.The programme covered branding, digital marketing, social media promotion, tariff planning, guest registration, cost management and complaint handling. Participants were trained in hospitality standards, housekeeping, interior presentation, energy conservation and use of alternative energy sources.Special sessions focused on responsible tourism, hygiene, safety, personality development, service etiquette and digital payment systems. Operators were trained in promoting local tourist attractions, regional cuisine and organic products.The programme concluded with participant assessments, certificate distribution and a farm visit to provide hands-on exposure to tourism-linked rural enterprises.Officials said trained entrepreneurs will generate local employment and offer visitors authentic experiences.
