Sri Vijaya Puram, November 10: Existing homestay operators and aspiring tourism entrepreneurs in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are undergoing a six-day training programme focused on improving accommodation services, housekeeping standards and sustainable tourism practices, as the Department of Tourism seeks to strengthen professional skills in the growing homestay segment.
The training and certification programme on Homestay Operations – Room Division and Sustainable Tourism Management began at the Training Hall of the Directorate of Disaster Management. Organised by the Department of Tourism in collaboration with the Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition (IHM), Mumbai, under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) Scheme, the programme will continue until November 14.
The course aims to equip existing homestay operators, prospective entrepreneurs and their employees with practical knowledge of managing accommodation facilities and meeting guest service requirements. Its curriculum covers room division operations, housekeeping procedures, guest services and sustainable management practices.
The opening day’s sessions, conducted by IHM Mumbai faculty expert Chandrakala Biswas, focused on the operational requirements of maintaining guest accommodation. Participants received instruction on housekeeping fundamentals, preparation of rooms, cleaning schedules, the use of cleaning equipment and agents, and appropriate care of different surfaces.
The sessions also addressed linen handling and basic hygiene and sanitation standards, which form part of routine accommodation management. These areas are included in the training to familiarise participants with the procedures involved in maintaining rooms and delivering guest services.
Beyond property management, the programme also examines the tourism market and changing visitor expectations. Participants were introduced to the tourism potential of the islands, the profiles of domestic and international tourists, the contribution of local enterprises and the service standards expected by modern travellers.
The training also emphasises professional conduct while interacting with guests, linking service behaviour with the operational responsibilities of homestay businesses.
Several registered homestay operators and aspiring entrepreneurs are attending the programme. The Department of Tourism has also invited others interested in establishing or managing homestays to join the ongoing training.
Individuals seeking registration or further information must contact the Planning Section of the Department of Tourism by November 10, 2026. The programme offers participants an opportunity to undertake structured training in accommodation management and sustainable tourism practices before its scheduled conclusion on November 14.
