Imphal: A comprehensive capacity building workshop for homestay entrepreneurs in Manipur officially commenced on Monday at the Directorate of Tourism, here.
The five-day programme, conducted under the Raising and Accelerating MSME Performance (RAMP) scheme – a World Bank-supported initiative by the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) focused on strengthening the MSME sector in India, aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of homestay owners and empower individuals interested in establishing and operating homestays within the state.
The workshop brings together expert trainers and industry leaders to cover various aspects, including homestay setup, operations, guest relations, food and beverage management, marketing, financial management, safety, and responsible tourism practices. The event is part of the government’s initiative to foster entrepreneurship, improve service quality, and promote Manipur as a premier tourist destination, said a government press release.
Notable trainers include Nivaran Nongmaithem, president of the Manipur Association of Tour Operators; Radhakrishna Hanjabam, state in-charge of the Indian Association of Tour Operators; Khuraijam Krishnan Singh, MD, Nest Advertising and Printing Pvt. Ltd.; Kh. Somorendro, former director, Institute of Cooperative Management (Guwahati and Imphal); N. Ibungochoubi, ex-president, MMTA and Laishram Sadananda, consultant, Robert Memorial Capitals. The programme will conclude on July 11 with a site visit to a notable homestay, certification of beneficiaries and a feedback session to evaluate the training impact.
A team from Grant Thornton Bharat LLP, the State Implementing Unit (SPIU)- RAMP also attended the opening session of the workshop. The RAMP programme was executed by the Department of Trade, Commerce & Industries, Manipur through MANIDCO, the state nodal agency.
