The state tourism department plans to introduce the “Aai” (mother) project, as part of which it will develop a policy on lone travellers, in order to promote tourism for women. Mangal Prabhat Lodha, the minister of tourism, made the announcement earlier this week.
The government, according to officials, will collaborate with resorts run by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation and choose areas that are secure and welcoming to women. The project is anticipated to set aside a period of time each year during which female travellers will receive discounted rates for travel and lodging.
A senior department official said, “A policy will be drafted shortly. The focus is to promote solo travel among women. There is a trend of late where women are choosing to travel and explore the state, and it is the government’s job to ensure their safety and ease.”
“Among other facilities, the initiative will employ maximum number of women at tourist spots, as guides… at lodging locations, local markets, eateries and restaurants,” the officer added.
Locations, resorts and restaurants selected under the initiative will be given the tag of “women-friendly” places, the official said, adding that safety of women travellers will be given utmost priority.
Officials said the government is exploring travel packages, such as ‘Mumbai Tourism’, ‘Heritage Tourism’ and ‘Spiritual Tourism’. Historic, religious and other prominent locations will be shortlisted for these packages.
