- Description

Talao has been recognized as Best Tourism Village 2023 in Bronze category.
Talao isn't just a stop on a journey; it's a destination itself. What sets this village apart is its unwavering commitment to Farm Tourism, showcasing traditional farming, horticulture, composting, and water conservation.

Talao is more than greenery; it's a gateway to natural wonders. Nearby attractions include Bhindawas Wildlife Sanctuary, Sultapur Birds Sanctuary, Hari-van-Aushadh Vatika, and Navgraha Vatika, surrounded by biodiversity hotspots.

It's not just about tourists; it's about community and equal employment opportunities for all. Empowering women through initiatives like 'Gau Gram' and integrating tradition with innovation through recycled materials showcase Talao's spirit.

Talao village is an experience, where tradition meets sustainability, and everyone plays a part in its vibrant tapestry.

- INTRODUCTION

Talao village is located in Jhajjar tehsil of Jhajjar district in Haryana, India. It is situated 3km away from Jhajjar, which is both district & sub-district headquarter of Talao village.

The village has the population of 3696 with the annual tourist flow (both international and domestic) of 65636. The village primarily a day visit destination and also provide accommodation facility with 6 unit and 12 beds.

- THEME

Farm Tourism Destination (The village concentrate on the Farm Tourism as well the village situated near natural tourism resources also like wildlife sanctuaries. The village farm showcases and practices traditional farming, horticulture, composting, and water conservation activities.)

- NEARBY ATTRACTION

1. Bhindawas Wildlife Sanctuary

2. Sultapur Birds Sanctuary.

3. Hari-van- AushadhVatika,

4. NavgrahaVatika. Etc.

5. Johad- Kuan (rainwater harvesting pond and well).

6. Multiple lush green gardens with more than 150 types of indigenous flora and fauna.

- INITIATIVE/ EVENTS/ ACTIVITIES

1. Hosted G20 1st anti-corruption group and Pravasi Haryanvi and Know India Program guests.

2. Actions include rainwater harvesting, plantations, organic farming, application of sewage treatment plant, incentivized organic farming with partner farmers.

3. No tolerance towards single use plastics, terracotta for dining; replacement of plastic chairs with stone, no food wastage practices.

4. Buildings, built with recycled bricks and wood from old havelis and Visitors are incentivized for being responsible; carry flasks for discount.

5. The village has a policy of all-inclusive farm tourism supporting multiple households; farmers, artisans and craftsmen sell local produce to tourists independently at the open village fair as ‘setup and sell’ for local farmers.

6. Equal Employment Opportunities are generated for all irrespective of caste, creed, gender and occupation.

7. Farm Tourism Start-up workshops are conducted for employees and independent farmers.

8. Value Chain Integrations practised by community involvement, fulfilling tourism goods and service requirements with village vendors from catering to grains.

9. ‘Gau Gram’ initiative women are trained to locally manufacture cow dung and composting products sold by them at the farm.

10. Incentives are offered to rural women to join in various roles.

11. Policies for a safe and secure working environment are regularly implemented and assessed.

12. The village’s initiative of offering locally grown produce (vegetables, sugarcane) and handmade crafts (terracotta), supports the rural economy.

13. Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna connects the tourism village and farm. Road signs and last mile connectivity.

14. Tourist friendly heritage buildings form a large part of then infrastructure at the farm, built with recycled construction material from old haveli's; walls from reused Nanakshahi bricks; roofing and furniture from reused wood, paint substituted by mud wherever possible.

- IMPACTS

1. The village has created a network of rural artisans, artists, craftsmen, farmers, and self-help groups who showcase their craft to tourists.

2. The community is involved in showcasing and preserving their cultural occupations, which have become a significant attraction for tourists.

3. The stakeholders, including the local government, tourism industry, and private sector, have also played a vital role in supporting the village's rural tourism development

4. The local community is also involved in selling their produce and handicrafts to tourists, generating additional income and supporting the local economy.

5. The government has recognized the village as a pioneer of farm tourism and awarded it a certificate of appreciation for promotion of farm tourism in Haryana.

6. The support and involvement of stakeholders and local community have been crucial in promoting and sustaining rural tourism in the village.

7. The Village provides equality of opportunity for local employment, training and advancement.

8. Women-led initiatives, such as Pratapgarh Vedic Gau Gram, are developed by local women at the core of planning and decision-making.

9. The village's development strategy includes continued engagement with the community and stakeholders, ensuring their participation in decision-making, and strengthening their economic and social well-being.

10. The infrastructure has been developed keeping the cultural and heritage aspects at core to ensure authenticity.