Individuals or organizations making outstanding contributions will receive ₹1 lakh and a citation; they will be honored at the State Festival.

Raipur. The state government has launched a new initiative to integrate the culture, tribal traditions, natural beauty, and local lifestyle of Chhattisgarh's villages with tourism. The Tourism Department has launched the "Chendru State Rural Tourism Award" to honor individuals and organizations that have excelled in rural tourism. The "Chendru State Rural Tourism Award Rules, 2025" have been implemented for this purpose.

One lakh rupees and a citation will be given.

The award will consist of a cash prize of ₹1 lakh and a citation for the selected individual or organization. The winner will be honored during the State Festival. An illustrated souvenir highlighting the award winner's achievements will also be released. According to the rules, this award can be presented to an individual only once in a lifetime.

Tourism and Culture Minister Rajesh Agrawal said that Chhattisgarh's villages are a living heritage of culture, tradition, and nature. The government is striving to ensure that the benefits of tourism are not limited to major tourist destinations, but also reach rural and tribal areas.

Promotion of homestays and local employment

The Minister stated that rural tourism can increase employment and self-employment opportunities for local youth, women, self-help groups, artisans, and rural entrepreneurs. Integrating homestays, local cuisine, handicrafts, folk art, folk culture, and natural heritage into tourism can directly benefit local communities.

Bastar is known by the name 'Chendru'

The award's name, "Chendru," is a tribute to Chhattisgarh's identity, which has brought Bastar and its natural habitat to national and international recognition. The government believes this designation will recognize grassroots individuals and organizations working in rural tourism. This will promote sustainable and community-based rural tourism.