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Salem is a paradise surrounded by hills and dotted with hillocks. With its vibrant culture, Salem is significant in various aspects, noteworthy for its location and social setup. Besides its well-known textile industries, especially handloom products and handicrafts, Salem is also known for its eye-catching scenic tourist attractions for nature lovers, trekkers, and eco-tourists.
To enhance rural tourism and provide an alternative livelihood for the people of Salem not involved in the handloom industry, the DiGI programme initiative has embarked on an innovative project to create homestays as an experiential tourism product, which aims to play a vital role in rural tourism and rural development.
Sugavanam, a student and resident of Chinnanur village in Salem, is quite impressed by this initiative and is associated with the DiGI programme. After attending the Entrepreneurial Skills Training sessions and Digital Media and Online Marketing workshops, Sugavanam developed the confidence to operate his homestay, embracing the opportunity. This homestay provides accommodation and authentic local experiences, opportunities to interact with locals, experience the rural lifestyle, and communities, and learn about Salem’s art, craft, food, culture, and traditions.
“My homestay is listed on Airbnb now and has already proven successful. In just one month, I have seen a significant boost in my earnings. The best part is it also supports local artisans by offering them business opportunities and helping them showcase, promote, and sell their art,” says Sugavanam proudly
By leveraging digital platforms to promote the homestay, the DIGI initiative has effectively raised awareness of Chinnanur’s unique attractions. Tourists are drawn to the village for the serene and genuine rural experience and the chance to explore the traditional craftsmanship of Salem silk. This project highlights the synergy between modern technology and cultural heritage, providing a sustainable and profitable model for rural tourism that benefits both visitors and the local community.
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