The two-day virtual International Agri-Tourism Conference ---May 15 and 16--- will coincide with the 14th World Agri-Tourism Day celebrations on May 16. The conference will see the participation of over 30 international speakers from 19 countries, as per media reports.
The objective of the conference is to create a global platform for Agri-Tourism. About 31 speakers confirmed from 19 countries of the world will share the learnings from various countries of the world and how various governments are supporting the cause with supporting policy initiatives. Individual farm owners will share their experiences at the conference.
Maharashtra is the first state in the country to frame an Agri-Tourism Policy in September 2020. There are around 1,000 private Agri-Tourism farms in the state currently out of which around 430 farms are already registered under the Tourism department.
The theme of the World Agri-Tourism Day this year is to create sustainable entrepreneurship opportunities for Rural Women through Agri-Tourism. Women are a pivotal part of the Agri-Tourism economy and historically also 90% of the functions of any Farm is managed by women folks. Hospitality also comes naturally to rural women. The idea is to combine both the core competencies and instil an entrepreneurial spirit in them.
Agri-Tourism is an emerging concept and has a multiplier effect on rural economies. The linkage between agriculture and tourism will not only generate new economic opportunities but also support the sustainable development of rural areas.
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