ECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL FOOTPRINT OF HOMESTAY SCHEMES IN HIMACHAL PRADESH

Abstract

This study evaluates homestay schemes' economic and environmental impacts in Himachal Pradesh, India, emphasizing the role of community participation and environmental knowledge. Employing a cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 500 participants, including homestay operators, community members, and tourists. The findings highlight a significant positive correlation between community participation and perceived economic benefits and between environmental knowledge and environmental benefits. These results suggest that enhanced community involvement and improved environmental awareness are crucial for maximizing the benefits of homestay programs.The study also identifies several challenges, including socio-cultural barriers and infrastructural deficiencies, which can impede the effectiveness of these schemes. Addressing these challenges is essential for the sustainable development of homestay tourism. This research contributes to the theoretical understanding of community-based tourism and offers practical insights for policymakers, local leaders, and tourism operators.Future research should explore the impacts of technological advancements on homestay schemes and investigate the specific barriers that restrict women and marginalized groups from benefiting fully from these programs.