Bettiah: A homestay initiative launched by the forest department in Santpur under the Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) in West Champaran is emerging as a new source of livelihood for local tribal communities while expanding tourism infrastructure in the region.The project, currently in its initial phase, is being operated under the supervision of the Eco-Development Committee (EDC). Forest ranger Satyam Kumar said the initiative aims to increase local participation in tourism activities and provide additional accommodation facilities for visitors during peak tourist seasons.“The homestay scheme has been designed to directly involve local communities in tourism management. Besides creating additional accommodation capacity, it is helping residents develop hospitality and management skills while generating income opportunities,” Kumar said.According to officials, the initiative is in line with the state government’s broader plan to strengthen tourism infrastructure in the region. Officials said the scheme is expected to benefit members of the Tharu and Dhangar tribes living in villages along the Indo-Nepal border. Local youths have been trained as guides, cooks and tourist facilitators with support from VTR Foundation and EDCs.Wildlife tourism is increasingly being complemented by cultural tourism in the reserve. Traditional Tharu folk dances and cultural performances organised on weekends have become an added attraction for visitors seeking to experience the region’s indigenous heritage.For Santosh Kaji, one of the local residents running a homestay, the initiative has already begun yielding results. “Around 150 to 200 tourists stayed at my homestay during December and January. They were deeply impressed by our tribal culture and lifestyle. Many appreciated the food prepared by tribal women and said it felt like home-cooked meals. Staying close to the forest also gave them an opportunity to experience nature from close quarters,” he said.Kaji said the growing interest among tourists suggests that homestays could become a major attraction in the coming years. “The initiative has provided me with a stable source of income and created local employment opportunities,” he added.Forest officials believe the homestay model will not only strengthen the local economy but also encourage community participation in conservation efforts while preserving the unique cultural identity of tribal communities living around the reserve.
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