Even as India continues to attract lakhs of tourists because of its splendid historical architecture and rich culture along with beautiful beaches in Goa to reliving the royal experience in Rajhasthan, rural tourism or what now is called 'responsible tourism' is gaining popularity.

On offer is the skilled diversity of art, craft, cultural and natural heritage... enabling visitor interactions with the local communitys way of life at rural sites across India.

Experts associated with this initiative say that special attention has been given to the community's understanding of visitor needs.

"There is overarching focus on sustainable practices, hygiene and sanitation, and signage, interpretation and local guides to tactfully unveil local history," says Mayura Balasubramanian, UNDP Project Support Officer, Endogenous Tourism.

She adds that packaged programmes will provide insights to rural art and craft imparted by skilled artisans and artistes, together with accommodation created using local material, local style and local skill or in home-stays providing local cuisine. For entertainment purpose, you have the village entertainment groups who disclose history and culture natural and oral treasures.

Senior Tourism Ministry official says the main objective of the scheme is to pass on the socio-economic benefits of tourism to rural areas by showcasing local handicrafts, culture and heritage in partnership with local NGOs and village youth.

He adds, "The rural India is rich in culture, art and tradition. We want to showcase them to the world." "It is a wonderful idea. Though I myself have preferred to live in century old houses or with locals while I am abroad with my family, I never knew such things existed in India," says the vice-president of a private telecom company. I would like to try this out the next time I plan my vacations."

Craftpersons representing four of 36 sites Hodka (Gujarat), Banavasi (Karnataka), Nepura (Bihar) and Raghurajpur (Orissa) have been selected to participate in the India@60 event organised under the Incredible India banner at Singapore in the first week of April.

According to latest Tourism Satellite Accounting (TSA) research released by the World Travel and Tourism Council, India Travel and Tourism is expected to generate approximately Rs 4 trillion (USD 100 billion) in 2008, rising to Rs 15 trillion (USD 275.5 billion) by 2018 over the next ten years.

The reports also says that while travel and tourism is expected to contribute 6.1 per cent to India's national GDP, with no increase in the coming decade, the anticipated growth will create 30.5 million jobs in 2008, 6.4 per cent of total employment, rising to 40 million jobs, 7.2 per cent of total employment by 2018.