SCOPE OF AGRI-TOURISM IN UTTARAKHAND: INPUTS FOR THE FUTURISTIC POLICY ROAD MAP

Abstract

Agritourism, the term itself signifies the combination of the words ‘Agriculture’ and ‘Tourism’. Agritourism includes various activities aimed at providing tourists with a rural experience while contributing positively towards the existing agricultural practices. Some of these activities include staying on farms, agricultural tours, farmers' markets, food festivals, and workshops. Being home to magnificent Himalayan ranges, ancient agricultural traditions, and a variety of flora and fauna, Uttarakhand has immense potential for agritourism. This article discusses the prospects of agritourism in Uttarakhand as an effective means of increasing the income levels of farmers, creating jobs, and minimizing migration from hilly regions. Using examples from Maharashtra and Uttarakhand, the study explores the socio-economic advantages of agritourism, determinants of farmer participation, and critical challenges involved in the promotion of agritourism.