LUCKNOW, Jan. 26 -- The Uttar Pradesh government on Sunday honoured outstanding contributors to rural tourism by conferring rural tourism awards, recognising villages, rural homestays and farm stays to mark the National Tourism Day 2026. Amrit Abhijat, additional chief secretary, tourism and culture, UP, said the state tourism awards aim to encourage sustainable rural tourism models that preserve local culture, create employment and strengthen village economies. In the best rural homestay category, the gold award was presented to Stays & Trails Anand Bhawan Palace, Kannauj, for its heritage homestay model. Radha Madhav Homestay, Pratapgarh, received the silver award for promoting authentic village life experiences while ensuring direct income for local families, while Sapt Sarovar, Pilibhit, won the bronze award for encouraging eco-sensitive stays close to natural landscapes. Under the best farm stay category, Rurban Resort, Ghaziabad, bagged the gold award for integrating agriculture, leisure and rural experiences, while the silver award went to Living Green Farms, Prayagraj, recognised for its focus on sustainable farming and experiential tourism. The best tourism village awards celebrated community-led tourism models. Bhanwat village in Mainpuri won the gold award for showcasing rural culture through collective participation. Individual achievements were recognised under the best success story category. Lalit Nishad of Kathwara, Lucknow, received the gold award for demonstrating how individual initiative can create sustainable tourism-linked livelihoods....