New Chhattisgarh, New Hopes: The untold story of the heroes who transformed villages through tourism

                                 Dhananjay Rathore
                     Joint Director Public Relations, Raipur

Raipur, October 2026/ Chhattisgarh is a land of invaluable natural heritage stretching from north to south, with rivers, mountains, dense forests, waterfalls, rich tribal culture, and tribal traditions giving Chhattisgarh its unique identity. The state government aims to introduce the world to the true beauty, cultural richness, and natural diversity of Chhattisgarh.

             Bastar in Chhattisgarh is becoming known on the tourism map as a tourist destination with its unique identity, culture, and natural beauty. Indeed, Bastar's forest area is truly unique. The lush greenery and cleanliness of nature attract tourists. Gradually, Bastar is not only joining the development stream but is also rapidly transforming in terms of tourism. The beautiful region, with its unique tribal culture and the lush forests, is attracting everyone's attention. Furthermore, the warm and hospitable nature of the people here is also attracting tourists from around the world.

Chhattisgarh Homestay Policy formulated to promote homestays in tribal areas 

           Chhattisgarh is now poised to dominate the national and international tourism map, thanks to the fragrance of its soil, rich tribal traditions, and the natural beauty of its villages. The state government has granted tourism industry status in its new Industrial Policy (2024-2030) to boost the rural economy through tourism development. It has also formulated the "Chhattisgarh Homestay Policy" to promote homestays in tribal areas. In this regard, the "Chendru State Rural Tourism Award" has been launched to promote rural tourism. These three decisions will usher in a new chapter in employment, livelihood, and cultural preservation in villages. This three-pronged model of the Chhattisgarh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, will further strengthen the process of tourism and economic empowerment of local people.

World famous Bastar Dussehra 

  The lush green forests, mountains and their teeming beauty have been captivating tourists ever since the rainy season has passed. Therefore, Bastar is proving to be one of the best tourist destinations in the country today. Although Bastar's Dussehra has been famous for a long time, something special is going to happen in Bastar's Dussehra which lasts for 75 days, but in recent times, a significant increase has been recorded in the number of tourists gathering on this occasion. This year too, a large number of people from India and abroad are expected to arrive here to witness Dussehra. Apart from Navratri and Dussehra, a large number of tourists from all over the world also arrive here on Diwali.

From the simple life of Bastar to global recognition

          The friendship of Bastar boy Chendru Mandavi with the tiger Tembu once brought Chhattisgarh's simple rural life to international attention. The state government has instituted the Chendru State Rural Tourism Award, named after him. The Chendru State Rural Tourism Award Rules 2025 have been implemented, which will be effective throughout Chhattisgarh. Under this award, grassroots leaders or organizations involved in rural tourism, folk art, handicrafts, and the preservation of natural heritage will be honored with a cash prize of ₹1 lakh and a citation. A six-member jury, headed by the Managing Director of the Chhattisgarh Tourism Board, will select the winner. The winner will be honored on the Rajyotsav stage and a pictorial souvenir will be released on their behalf.

Rural Tourism Award launched in memory of Chendru Mandavi, popularly known as the 'Tiger Boy' of Bastar

         The Chhattisgarh government has instituted the 'Chendru' State Rural Tourism Award to promote rural tourism. The award is in memory of Chendru Mandavi, known as the 'Tiger Boy' of Bastar, who gained international fame with the Swedish film 'Jungle Saga'. The aim is to integrate village culture, tribal traditions, natural beauty and local lifestyle with tourism and increase employment opportunities locally. The 'Chendru State Rural Tourism Award' is an effort to recognize individuals and organizations who are transforming the face of their villages and regions through grassroots tourism. 

Homestays will help tourists learn about the village lifestyle.

            Along with rewards and incentives, the state government's homestay policy is providing practical support to this entire framework. Tourists will now be able to experience traditional village homes instead of expensive hotels. Tourists will stay in village homes. By promoting homestays, local cuisine, handicrafts, folk art, folk culture, natural and cultural heritage, and community-based tourism, Chhattisgarh can become a unique model for rural tourism in the country. Tourists have the opportunity to stay in villagers' homes, eat their traditional food, use cots, visit farms and barns, and experience well water.

Tourism will get a boost through homestays

            The Homestay Policy 2025-30 will provide families in rural, tribal, and tourist areas with opportunities to generate additional income and self-employment by transforming their homes into tourism facilities. Tourists will also have the opportunity to directly connect with local cuisine, art, traditions, tribal culture, and lifestyle. This will also give lesser-known tourist destinations a new identity. The policy also provides financial assistance for the establishment of new homestays and the upgrading of existing ones, along with training for operators in hospitality, sanitation, and business operations. Proceeds from this will go directly to rural families, women's self-help groups, and local artisans, directly benefiting the rural economy. This policy will promote tourism through homestays, from the Bastar and Surguja regions to the plain villages.

New doors of prosperity opened in Chhattisgarh by giving industry status to tourism

            The Chhattisgarh government has granted tourism industry status. Chhattisgarh's new industrial policy specifically includes tourism, entertainment, and other social service sectors. Tourism projects, like other industries, are being offered various concessions and facilities with minimal capital investment. Chhattisgarh's tourism industry holds immense potential. A good governance government is realizing these possibilities. Granting tourism industry status has opened new doors to prosperity in Chhattisgarh. Tourism facilities are being developed in every region, from Surguja to Bastar, from villages to cities. The tourism sector is creating new jobs and strengthening the rural economy.