The fusion of agriculture and tourism is no longer an experiment — it’s a rural economic engine. This research paper by Krishi Parivar analyses how farm stays and experience-based tourism generate high-multiplier effects for local economies and why policy attention toward “Agri-Tourism Clusters” could add ₹ 12,000 crore to India’s GDP by 2030.
Core Findings
Average eco-tourism farm earns 2.3× more than mono-crop farms.
Every 10 farm-stays create ~60 indirect jobs in transport, food supply, and crafts.
Visitor spending retained locally is above 70 %, compared to 40 % in urban tourism.
Data Snapshot (2024–25 Pilot)
| Indicator | Traditional Farm | Agri-Tourism Farm |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Annual Revenue | ₹ 2.1 lakh | ₹ 4.9 lakh |
| Employment Generated | 1.7 people | 5.2 people |
| Visitor Spend Retained Locally | — | 72 % |
Expert Reaction
“Agri-tourism clusters are micro economic zones that retain capital within villages,” explains Dr. Rohit Pawar, economist.
“Krishi Parivar’s framework aligns with India’s rural GDP targets for Vision 2030,” notes CA Manoj Singh.
Challenges & Policy Recommendations
Need for low-interest finance for eco-hospitality units.
Skill certification for village hosts under Skill India.
Uniform guidelines for farm-stay licensing and insurance.
Way Forward
Krishi Parivar proposes a Public-Private Rural Tourism Fund to co-finance infrastructure and training — turning villages into self-sustained micro economies.
Why This Matters
Agri-tourism is not leisure — it’s livelihood innovation. Each guest visit adds to rural GDP and keeps the farmer on his land.