The state government has notified the TouristVillagesDevelopment Scheme2021for setting up infrastructure in rural areas through village panchayats with the objective of creating avillage tourismcircuit that acts as an independent and strongtourismproduct, to attract responsible visitors.

Funds up to Rs 50 lakh will be allocated to a selected village to develop like kiosks for sale of local products, arts, crafts, multi-utility hall for organising local fairs and festivals, Home stays, Wi-Fi and solar streetlights, among others. Financial support over and above this amount in a financial year will be decided by the tourism department depending on the availability of funds.
The tourism department will not transfer or disburse funds directly to any village panchayat.
The scheme is part of the state governments economic revival plan to make villages self-reliant under the Atmanirbhar Bharat, Swayampoorna Goa initiative launched by the chief minister on October 1, 2020.