Shimla, Sept. 19 -- To promote tourism and create self-employment opportunities in Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led Congress government has approved the launch of "Chief Minister Tourism Startup Scheme in Hospitality Industry".

Under this scheme, the state government will provide financial relief on loans taken for establishing new tourism units, such as homestays, as well as for the expansion and upgradation of existing units. The government will extend an interest subsidy of 3% in urban areas, 4% in rural areas, and 5% in tribal areas on loans up to Rs.2 crore, for a maximum period of three years from the date of loan disbursement. This facility will be available only to bonafide Himachalis.

Highlighting the importance of ...