Assam Univ initiative for rural tourism centred on wetlands

Silchar: Assam University Silchar has launched an initiative to support homestay owners in the Son Beel area of Assam, aiming to transform the region into a sustainable tourism destination. The programme seeks to equip local entrepreneurs with essential capabilities for establishing homestays in areas lacking accommodation options, thus boosting rural and aquatic tourism potential. By focusing on Son Beel, one of Asia's largest wetlands, the initiative strives to create fresh revenue opportunities for rural youth whilst addressing issues such as rural-urban migration.The central university commenced a fortnight-long certificate course in Homestay Operations and Wetland-Based Rural Tourism, led by programme convenor Arun Jyoti Nath. He emphasised Son Beel's untapped tourism prospects and the vital role of homestays in economic growth. Nath welcomed participants selected from five villages across the Son Beel region, spanning Sribhumi and Hailakandi districts, expressing optimism about their role in this venture.Assam University Registrar Pradosh Kiran Nath, serving as programme patron, affirmed the university's commitment to social responsibility and its efforts to develop Son Beel as a sustainable tourist destination.Rabindranath Tagore University VC Professor Manabendra Dutta Choudhury highlighted homestay-based tourism's importance for rural economic development. He noted that homestays established under this programme would receive Assam University certification to ensure standards and enhance tourist trust.Pradip Kumar from the department of hospitality and tourism stressed the value of local cuisine and regional history in enhancing tourism appeal. He indicated that this project aims to boost economic development and visitor engagement in Assam's wetland regions, creating a blueprint for rural tourism across the state.