The Kerala government has announced a new interest subsidy scheme to support women entrepreneurs in the tourism sector. Under the initiative, women who take loans from the Kerala State Women Development Corporation (KSWDC) for businesses registered with the Kerala Responsible Tourism Mission Society (KRTMS) will receive a 4% interest subsidy.
The tourism department will provide the subsidy through KRTMS, ensuring that beneficiaries across all categories — including SC/ST communities, minorities, and the general category — can avail the benefit.
An administrative sanction of ₹4 crore has been approved to implement the scheme. The subsidy will be applicable on loans up to ₹15 lakh, even if the total loan amount exceeds that limit.
Tourism minister P A Mohamed Riyas said the new scheme will encourage more women to set up tourism-related enterprises as the sector continues to expand rapidly. “Kerala has set a model for the country by launching a series of upfront schemes to promote women-led enterprises as part of its women-friendly tourism initiative,” he said.
The state budget for 2025–26 had already earmarked that 50% of the allocation for responsible tourism activities will go towards women empowerment, reinforcing Kerala’s commitment to gender-inclusive growth in tourism.
KRTMS CEO Rupeshkumar K said the women-friendly tourism initiative envisions creating a strong network of women entrepreneurs involved in tourism services such as tour operations, homestays, catering, and taxi services.
The responsible tourism mission has been pivotal in shaping Kerala’s gender-inclusive and sustainable tourism model, which not only promotes local enterprise but also enhances community-based tourism and social empowerment.
The new subsidy could make it easier for women to access affordable credit, especially in rural and semi-urban areas where tourism-based microenterprises are thriving. By reducing borrowing costs and supporting capacity building, the initiative may help more women turn their small businesses — from homestays to food ventures — into sustainable livelihoods.