The main objective of the Tourism Department is to create 20 lakh jobs in Andhra Pradesh over the next five years and strengthen the state’s economy. The future belongs to tourism, and we will achieve this, Minister Kandula Durgesh clarified.
BUREAU CHIEF
RAJA PENTAPATI
FEBRUARY 7 BHARAT NEWSAMARAVATI: Andhra Pradesh Tourism, Culture, and Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh stated at a press conference in Rajahmundry today that transforming Andhra Pradesh into a world-class tourism destination and creating employment opportunities are the primary goals of the alliance government.
He added that Prime Minister Modi envisions a developed India by 2047, and Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu aims to transform Andhra Pradesh into a golden state. Durgesh also said that the foundation stone laying ceremony for the Quantum Valley in Amaravati is a significant achievement for the development of Andhra Pradesh.
He clarified that the tourism sector is being made the backbone of the state’s economic growth, and industrial status has been granted through the new tourism policy (2024-29). Following the formation of the alliance government, thousands of investors came forward to invest in the tourism sector at the CII conference.
As a result, agreements were signed with 117 renowned companies, attracting investments worth ₹30,000 crore in just 20 months, Minister Durgesh stated. With the aim of achieving economic development and job creation through the tourism sector, the goal is to create 20 lakh jobs in the state in the next five years, with the tourism sector playing a major role.
The future belongs to tourism. For the first time in the state’s history, we have secured a grant of ₹428 crore from the central government for the development of 8 tourist destinations.
Minister Durgesh clarified that for the first time in the state’s history, a grant of ₹428 crore has been secured from the central government for the development of 8 tourist destinations, and approvals have been received for over 25 thematic circuits, including tourism circuits, and adventure tourism in over 90 locations.
He said that houseboats have already been launched in 8 locations, including Rajahmundry and Vijayawada, similar to Kerala, and Cordelia cruise services have started between Visakhapatnam, Chennai, and Puducherry. He added that they are introducing ‘Araku Koini’ (a millet-based meal) to tourists, similar to Araku coffee.
He stated that their intention is to transform Andhra Pradesh into a global tourist destination. He expressed hope that this would enhance the AP brand and increase tourist arrivals. He mentioned that each tourism festival is being organized with a different event management company.
Currently, 27 projects have received SIPB approvals, with 3 ready for inauguration, 12 in progress, and 5 ready for foundation stone laying. He added that land allocation has been completed for another 7 projects. Minister Durgash stated that they have paved the way for the creation of 1,22,637 jobs in the tourism sector.
He mentioned that they have requested the allocation of funds for the establishment of an Integrated Experience, Interpretation, and Information Center in Amaravati with an outlay of ₹100 crore, which will include spaces for international tourism desks and major tourism aggregators, as well as visa facilitation counters.
Minister Durgash also stated that several decisions were taken at a sub-committee meeting comprising departments such as Forests, Tourism, Endowments, R&B, and Irrigation, giving priority to the safety of tourists.
Andhra Pradesh
