PM-JUGA 21-Day Homestay Training Programme Begins at TFC Bemathang, Kargil

PM-JUGA 21-Day Homestay Training Programme Begins at TFC Bemathang, Kargil Kargil, October 16, 2026: A 21-day Homestay Training Programme for beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PM-JUGA) commenced today at the Tourist Facilitation Centre (TFC), Bemathang, Kargil. The programme will continue until November 5, 2026, under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Scheme. The training is being conducted under the Holistic Homestay Support Framework (HHSF), with the objective of strengthening hospitality standards, improving homestay management, and promoting sustainable, community-based tourism across Ladakh. The programme focuses on enhancing the skills and capacities of homestay beneficiaries through training in hospitality, guest services, cleanliness, homestay operations, sustainable tourism practices, and digital visibility. It also aims to help local communities develop tourism-related entrepreneurship and create sustainable livelihood opportunities. The inaugural programme was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Kargil, Ghulam Mohammad, JKAS; Functional Industrial Manager, Showqat Ali; and Assistant Director Tourism, Mohd Ali Tak. Participants from various areas of Kargil district also attended the programme. Addressing the gathering, ADC Kargil, Ghulam Mohammad, highlighted the importance of skill development and capacity building in strengthening the tourism sector and generating employment opportunities for local residents. He emphasized the need to equip homestay beneficiaries with the necessary knowledge and practical skills to improve hospitality services, encourage entrepreneurship, and enhance the overall experience of tourists visiting the district. He further stressed the importance of community participation in tourism development, noting that homestays can serve as an important source of sustainable income while providing visitors with an opportunity to experience the region’s rich cultural heritage, local traditions, and renowned hospitality. Assistant Director Tourism, Mohd Ali Tak, also addressed the gathering and highlighted the importance of strengthening homestay facilities and improving hospitality standards to promote tourism in Ladakh. He emphasized the role of local communities in developing authentic tourism experiences and ensuring better services for visitors. The programme is being implemented with the support of Firgun Social Initiative Foundation, which serves as the knowledge and implementation partner. During the programme, Vivek Saxena, Founder of Firgun Social Initiative Foundation, delivered the vote of thanks and expressed gratitude to the officials, participants, and all those associated with the initiative for their support and participation. Report by mussa ptc