Comments
Union Tourism Minister K. Chiranjeevi on Monday expressed the need to fast-track the implementation of tourism projects and assured that he would clear the Vizag mega circuit for Central financial assistance.
Following a review of various tourism projects, including development of infrastructure to support tourist spots, here on Monday, he said that during the XI Five Year Plan, the Union Government released Rs 201 crore for 40 projects in Andhra Pradesh and in the first year of XII Plan, the Centre released Rs 58 crore for 11 projects.
He said that the Rs 55-crore Vizag circuit project between Visakhapatnam and Bhimli will be developed as a tourism spot hub.
The Minister agreed to consider the State Government’s request to set up a new institute for hotel management.
During the interaction, he stressed the need to focus on rural tourism. Most foreigners visiting India like to see the real India which is in rural parts of the country, its traditions and customs. Andhra Pradesh is rich in rural traditions, art, cuisine and culture and has potential to attract them.
The Buddhist spots in the State could be developed and promoted to attract foreign tourists.
He stressed the need to brand Andhra Pradesh just like Kerala and Madhya Pradesh to attract visitors. “Effective marketing of our tourism is needed while highlighting the unique sales proposition of the State,” he felt.
UN’s tourism meet
India will play a host to the United Nations world tourism Organisation (UNTWO) regional commission for South Asia, East Asia and Pacific countries in April 2013 in Hyderabad.
More than 30 countries are expected to take part in the event which was finalised at London during the meeting with Taleb Rafai, Secretary General, UNWTO.
He felt this event presents an ideal opportunity to showcase the rich heritage and potential for meetings and conventions.
rishikumar.vundi@thehindu.co.in
Comments
COMMENT NOW
Comments
Comments have to be in English, and in full sentences. They cannot be abusive or personal. Please abide by our community guidelines for posting your comments.
We have migrated to a new commenting platform. If you are already a registered user of TheHindu Businessline and logged in, you may continue to engage with our articles. If you do not have an account please register and login to post comments. Users can access their older comments by logging into their accounts on Vuukle.