Soon, Gandhi-themed homestays will be rolled out

The Tourism and Culture ministries will likely roll out Gandhi-themed homestays very soon, which will let tourists experience the Gandhian way of life—an idea that was recently suggested by the Prime Minister while attending a meeting on Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary celebrations.

As per the reports, those interested in knowing more about Mahatma Gandhi will get an opportunity to live his ideals and experience his daily life in more than 100 homestays that will be set up around the country.
Reportedly, the Tourism Ministry has also asked Gandhi Smriti, the museum dedicated to Gandhi that falls under the Culture Ministry, to identify and reach out to Gandhi ashrams that follow the Gandhian way of life, non-violence, centred around self-help, no possessions, working for daily food, use of local goods, strictly vegetarian diet, and exercises self-restraint.

The ministry will also be working out to find if those ashrams have necessary logistics to be run as homestays; if possible, the ministry will also be looking out for ways to scale it up. Till date, around 15 such institutions have been identified across the country, where these programs can be rolled out within a week. Further, referring to this development, the Gandhi Smriti officials stated that they had been asked to provide a complete list by August 15. They are now updating the database of institutions that are into Gandhian teachings, and if they will be able to be a part of such a program.

Officials also mentioned that there are more than 500 such institutions across the country, and that they are working with each of them regarding the facilities they can provide.

Pointing to this development, a top government official stated that as of now, emphasis will be on attracting more and more people to visit these spots.