Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has set an ambitious target to transform the state into the world’s No. 1 tourism destination. Speaking at the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Conclave Tech AI 2.0 in Amaravati, the CM launched multiple flagship initiatives, signed MoUs worth Rs.10,329 crore, and unveiled the state’s digital tourism calendar. “Tourism is the only ‘-ism’ that will survive,” he said, highlighting its potential to drive wealth creation, inclusive growth, and cultural revival.

Joined by wellness icon Baba Ramdev and other officials, CM Naidu flagged off Caravan Tourism to boost regional travel, especially in unexplored destinations. “From forest reserves to 1,000 km of coastline and temple circuits, Andhra Pradesh is uniquely positioned,” he declared, unveiling plans to develop seven anchor hubs including Tirupati, Araku, and Visakhapatnam, and over 25 themed tourism circuits.

Calling tourism the “ultimate job generator,” CM Naidu revealed plans to raise the sector’s GSDP contribution from Rs.74,000 crore to Rs.2.4 lakh crore by 2029. “For every Rs.1 lakh invested, tourism can create eight jobs — more than IT or manufacturing,” he said. A new Homestay Policy aims to create 10,000+ community-run homestays, expanding room capacity from 19,500 to 50,000.

The Chief Minister positioned yoga and wellness tourism as key pillars, inviting Baba Ramdev to serve as a spiritual advisor. Baba Ramdev endorsed CM Naidu’s leadership and announced plans to establish Patanjali wellness centers across the state. “Not many from North India knew about the beautiful places in Andhra Pradesh, I would like to create awareness on the beauty and great hospitality of AP to those people and I accept the role of brand ambassador for AP tourism.”

Promoting tourism as an inclusive growth model, CM Naidu launched the AP Tourism Policy 2024–29, granting the sector full industry status, 100% stamp duty exemption, and fast-track clearances under “Speed of Doing Business.” “Your money is safe — don’t miss this opportunity,” he told investors. As the conclave concluded, the CM pledged annual reviews to ensure transparency. “Tourism offers both health and happiness. It is the soul of sustainable development,” he said, signaling Andhra Pradesh’s bold leap into the global tourism arena.