Agri tourism set to take wings in desert state

JAIPUR: Tourists coming to Rajasthan will now have options beyond forts and heritage to explore. Rajasthan government is all set to introduce agriculture tourism in the state, developing both food parks and encouraging farmers to develop their farm fields.
Visitors will receive direct exposure and taste of rural life with stay on farm fields. Facing issues on falling numbers of repeated tourists, government is considering clubbing farming with tourism.Farmers will be encouraged to develop recreational and accommodation facilities for the tourists.
"We are looking at this sector very seriously. For a family which is urban centric, it will be an attractive option to witness farming activities and learn more about rural way of life. Through this farmers will also be able to generate additional income," said Neelkamal Darbari.
The concept has been aped from South Australia where to make farming sustainable the local government has linked it with tourism aspect. The efforts have already been started in this direct with agri-tourism is being promoted in Mega Food Park at Roopnagar in Ajmer.
The park has staying facilities with options of vesting to organic farms learning about different agriculture practices and produce. Spread in over 500 hectares, Food Park is joint venture of Centre and state government with 60% funding coming from central government and 40% from Rajasthan government.
In the park you will find all those things that are needed for weekend outings. Tourists can stay, taste local farm produce, enhance their knowledge about farming along relaxing and enjoying" said minister for agriculture, Prabhulal Saini. Based on its success, government is also planning to open up four more facilities. However they will be on public private partnership.