Chandrapur: In a major push towards sustainable community-based eco-tourism, the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbnb to strengthen the capacity of homestays located in villages surrounding the tiger reserve’s buffer zone.
The MoU was exchanged on July 29, 2026, during the International Tiger Day celebrations held at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Nagpur, in the presence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Forest Minister Ganesh Naik, MITRA CEO Praveen Pardeshi, Additional Chief Secretary (Forests) Milind Mhaiskar, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests M. Srinivasa Rao, and Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) M.S. Reddy.
The initiative aims to improve the digital capabilities, online visibility, and market access of homestay operators, helping them attract both domestic and international tourists. At present, around 100 homestays are operating in and around the buffer villages of Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve.
Digital Training and Global Exposure
Under the partnership, the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Conservation Foundation (TATRCF) and Airbnbwill jointly conduct digital skill development and capacity-building programmes for operators of homestays and bed-and-breakfast (B&B) establishments.
The programme includes training on:
- Registering properties on the Airbnb platform
- Creating attractive host profiles
- Professional photography for listings
- Listing optimisation
- Effective guest communication
- Writing compelling property descriptions
The collaboration will also facilitate the exchange of best practices, regulatory frameworks, and successful community tourism models from across India to strengthen Maharashtra’s eco-tourism ecosystem.
First Phase Covers 30 Homestays
In the first phase, 30 homestays have been selected for capacity enhancement. The first training workshop was conducted on July 10 and 11, 2026, receiving an enthusiastic response from participants.
So far, 15 homestays have been successfully listed on Airbnb, while the remaining properties will be onboarded after completing the necessary preparations.
Building on Existing Community Tourism Initiatives
Over the past few years, several homestay owners have received financial assistance under the ‘Chanda to Banda’ initiative and through the Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Conservation Foundation to establish and upgrade their facilities.
The Tiger Reserve is now focusing on improving quality standards, cleanliness, hospitality, and market visibility of these community-run accommodations. To further strengthen the ecosystem, Gautam Buddha University and the Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management (IITTM)are conducting studies to identify existing challenges and recommend measures for long-term improvement.
Officials Highlight Sustainable Growth
Amanpreet Bajaj, Country Head, India and Southeast Asia, Airbnb, said that some of India’s most authentic travel experiences come from homes run by local communities.
“Local hosts offer visitors a genuine introduction to the region’s culture, traditions, and way of life. Tadoba is a perfect example. Our partnership with TATR will provide these hosts with the tools and global visibility needed to welcome travellers from around the world. Tourism becomes truly sustainable when its benefits directly reach local communities living alongside these rich natural landscapes.”
Prabhu Nath Shukla, Field Director of Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, said community-owned homestays are at the heart of sustainable eco-tourism.
“Partnering with a global platform like Airbnb will significantly improve the quality and visibility of homestays around Tadoba. This initiative will generate more employment and livelihood opportunities for local communities, enrich visitors’ experiences, and further strengthen wildlife conservation through active community participation.”
The partnership is expected to enhance the tourism experience in Tadoba while ensuring that the economic benefits of wildlife tourism are shared directly with local communities living around one of India’s premier tiger reserves.
