The Rajasthan government has started a rural tourism scheme, offering concessions to prospective investors.
“According to the policy, the state government will promote tourism units that showcase rural life, art, culture, and heritage,” a senior tourism department said.
Local people in rural areas are expected to get employment through this scheme, called Rajasthan Rural Tourism Scheme. Various sops are being offered under it. There will be concession in stamp duty. In the beginning 25 per cent stamp duty will be payable, but after the start of the tourism unit and on submitting the certificate, the amount will be reimbursed.
Other benefits include the following: Reimbursing payable and deposited state goods and services tax for 10 years; an interest subsidy of 9 per cent instead of 8 per cent on loans up to Rs 25 lakh under the Mukhyamantri Laghu Udyog Protsahan Yojana; land conservation and building plan approval will not be applicable to rural tourism units; promoting rural tourism in areas under the forest department in accordance with the provisions of the State Eco Tourism Policy; and approval and benefits on priority to local folk artists and handicraftsmen and rural start-ups.