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The Andaman & Nicobar Administration invites locals to offer homestay accommodations through this scheme, based on national Read More... guidelines, to provide quality stays and cultural experiences for tourists. Read less

Details

Planning to offer a cozy stay for tourists in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands? The Directorate of Tourism has launched the Bed & Breakfast / Home Stay Establishment Scheme to help you do just that.

What Is This Scheme?

This scheme, guided by the Ministry of Tourism's 'Incredible India Bed & Breakfast/Homestay Establishment' initiative, allows residents of Andaman & Nicobar to convert parts of their homes into guest accommodations. The main idea is to give tourists, both from India and abroad, a comfortable, clean, and affordable place to stay. It's also a fantastic opportunity for guests to dive into Indian customs, traditions, and taste delicious local food by staying with a host family.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

The scheme is designed for property owners in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands who wish to use a portion of their home to provide lodging for tourists. This includes those who own their property as well as those who are renting or leasing a place.

Why This Scheme Is Important

It helps boost tourism in the islands by increasing the availability of quality accommodation. For residents, it's a way to earn extra income while sharing their hospitality and local culture. Tourists get a more authentic and personal travel experience.

Objective

The Andaman & Nicobar Administration invites locals to offer homestay accommodations through this scheme, based on national guidelines, to provide quality stays and cultural experiences for tourists.

Benefits

Free distribution of modular reflective folding sticks.

Sources and references

Citizen's Charter (2022)

Eligibility Criteria

If you own or rent a property in Andaman & Nicobar and want to use a part of it to host tourists, you can register it under the Bed and Breakfast (B&B) Scheme.
The property can be either owned by you or rented/leased. For this scheme, 'Owner' includes both situations.

How To Apply

To apply for the Andaman & Nicobar Bed & Breakfast/Homestay Establishment Scheme, you need to follow these steps:

Obtain the prescribed application form. This can be found in the official notification document, starting from page 4.
Fill out Annexure I: Application Form with all necessary details.
Complete Annexure II: Facilities Checklist.
Sign Annexure III: Undertaking by the owner/promoter.
The application form requires essential information like the name and category of your B&B/Homestay, details of the promoter/owner, property specifics (like room counts and sizes), and documentation proving ownership or lease.
Submit the completed application form and all required documents to the Directorate of Tourism, Andaman & Nicobar Administration. The official notification provides a link to the document for reference.

Official Source for Application Form: You can access the official notification document containing the application form here: document (page 4 onwards).

Documents Required

When applying for the Bed & Breakfast / Home Stay Establishment Scheme, you will need to submit the following:

Annexure I: Application Form - This is the main form detailing your proposed establishment.
Annexure II: Facilities Checklist - A list to ensure your facility meets the required standards.
Annexure III: Undertaking by the owner/promoter - A declaration from you as the applicant.

The application form itself will ask for crucial details such as:

The name and category of the B&B/Homestay you plan to set up.
Names and addresses of the promoter and owner.
Details about the property, including the number and size of rooms.
Proof of ownership or lease documentation for the property.

Official Source for Application Form: The complete application can be found in the official notification: document (starting from page 4).

FAQ’s

How long is the classification for a homestay valid?

Once your homestay is classified, the approval is generally valid for 3 years. If you apply for reclassification before your current one expires, the new validity period will begin from the date the previous classification ends.

What is the purpose of the Andaman & Nicobar Homestay Scheme?

The main goal is to offer tourists, both Indian and foreign, safe, affordable, and high-quality accommodation. It also provides a unique chance for them to experience Indian customs, traditions, and taste local food by staying with host families.

Can I offer more than 6 rooms under this scheme?

No, under this scheme, you can offer a minimum of one room and a maximum of six rooms for guests, accommodating up to 12 beds in total.

What are the different categories for homestay classification?

There are two classification categories available for Bed & Breakfast / Homestay establishments: Silver and Gold.

What kind of food service is expected from a homestay?

The scheme is strictly for bed and breakfast. You must clearly define the type of breakfast you will provide, fix its price, and inform guests about it beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings.

What are the fees for classifying or reclassifying my homestay?

For classification or reclassification, the fees are:

Silver Category: ₹1,000
Gold Category: ₹2,000

Who is allowed to apply for this homestay scheme?

Eligibility is for homeowners who live in the same property with their family and are willing to offer 1 to 6 rooms (up to 12 beds) for guests.

Do I need to allow inspections of my homestay?

Yes, absolutely. Once you apply, your establishment must be ready for an inspection by the Classification Committee at any time. Postponing inspections is not permitted.

How do I get the application form for the homestay license?

You can find the application form within the official notification. It's usually available online and starts from page 4 of the document linked in the 'Documents Required' section.

What is the general procedure to get a homestay license?

The process typically involves applying with the completed form and required documents, paying the necessary fee, and undergoing a site inspection. The approval and license are then issued, usually within a reasonable timeframe after all steps are completed satisfactorily.