MP: How eco-friendly PMAY homes in Sehore villages are turning into income-generating homestays?
The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) being implemented in rural areas of the district will no longer be limited to providing housing; it will also become a powerful means of increasing rural income. In a novel initiative, the district administration has decided to develop the houses constructed under the PMAY in Khari and Bilkisganj villages under the Sehore Janpad Panchayat on a home-stay model.
The houses constructed under this initiative will use completely eco-friendly bricks instead of traditional bricks. These bricks, made from ash and agricultural residues, offer thermal insulation, helping to keep the house cool in summer and warm in winter. They will also reduce construction costs and minimize the need for external plaster, thereby promoting environmental protection.
Beneficiaries of PMAY will be encouraged and guided to operate home-stays
Through the District Panchayat Rural Housing Scheme Cell, beneficiaries of the PMAY will be encouraged and guided to operate home-stays, enabling them to develop their houses as a source of income.
Home-stays operating in the area are consistently booked
Bilkisganj and Khari villages are renowned for their natural beauty, rural surroundings, and tranquil atmosphere. Located near Bhopal, they offer immense potential for weekend tourism. Currently, home-stays operating in the area are consistently booked. Implementation of the proposed scheme will allow tourists to experience rural lifestyles, traditional cuisine, farm tours, and local folk culture.
New employment opportunities at the village level
Increasing the number of homestays will create new employment opportunities at the village level. Women's self-help groups and villagers will be able to sell handicrafts, dairy products, ghee, grains, and local products. Local artists will also have the opportunity to earn income through folk dances and cultural programs.
PMAY houses to be developed on the homestay model
Sehore District CEO, Mrs. Namita Baghel, stated that beneficiaries will be encouraged to develop the houses constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana in Khari and Bilkisganj on the homestay model. Built using eco-friendly bricks, these houses will be sustainable and environmentally friendly. The objective of this initiative is to empower villagers by empowering them with self-employment and strengthening the local economy. The increased tourist arrivals will also boost village tourism.