Ganderbal, Nov 15: The Homestay Entrepreneurship Training Program, sponsored by the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) and co-sponsored by J&K Bank, was officially inaugurated on Wednesday in Sonamarg on Wednesday. The program is a collaborative effort by the Sonamarg Development Authority and the Tourism Department.
The inauguration ceremony welcomed 35 eager trainees from Sonamarg, marking a significant step towards fostering entrepreneurship in the region. The Chief Executive Officer of the Sonmarg Development Authority praised the initiative for its potential to boost sustainable tourism and empower the local community economically.
Distinguished speakers, including Tariq Nazir Banday from J&K Bank, highlighted the institution’s commitment to supporting initiatives that contribute to sustainable development. The Tourist Officer of Sonmarg emphasized the transformative impact that well-managed homestays can have on the overall visitor experience.
Advocate Nadeem Qadri shared valuable insights into creating green spaces and empowering local communities through sustainable initiatives, providing legal expertise to ensure a secure business environment for the trainees. Waseem from KPMG offered a global perspective on industry best practices and market trends, enriching the training program.
Ashraf Wani from JK DAG, the training partner for the project, emphasized the importance of aligning the program with the cultural ethos of Sonamarg to meet the unique needs of the community. The active participation of 35 local trainees underscores the community’s eagerness to embrace entrepreneurship and contribute to regional tourism growth.
The Homestay Entrepreneurship Training Program aims to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to establish and manage successful homestay ventures. The CEO of SDA Ilyas Ahmad in his inaugural address, encouraged trainees to seize the opportunity for personal growth and positively impact the local economy.
With collaborative efforts from government bodies, financial institutions, industry experts, and the local community, this initiative is poised to make a significant impact on Sonamarg’s tourism landscape, the organizers said.
