AP aims to transform into global tourism destination: Minister Kandula Durgesh

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Andhra Pradesh Tourism, Culture and Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh on Saturday said the State government is committed to transforming Andhra Pradesh into a world-class tourism destination, asserting that the 2026-27 State Budget lays a strong foundation for accelerated growth in the tourism and cultural sectors.

Speaking to mediapersons on the sidelines of the Assembly sessions, the Minister welcomed the allocation of ₹439 crore for tourism and culture in the State Budget, describing it as a significant boost for branding, promotion, marketing and event management initiatives aimed at strengthening Andhra Pradesh’s global tourism profile.

Durgesh credited Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s leadership and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan’s support for prioritising tourism development, calling the budget a comprehensive roadmap aligned with the aspirations of the people. He thanked Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav and other ministers for supporting sectoral growth through strategic allocations.

Highlighting achievements since the coalition government assumed office, the Minister said the introduction of the AP Tourism Policy 2024-29 and granting industry status to tourism marked a revolutionary decision. Over the past one-and-a-half years, the government conducted roadshows and regional investor summits across various states, attracting investments worth ₹20,088 crore through 117 Memorandums of Understanding, potentially generating 1,22,637 employment opportunities.

He added that projects worth Rs. 6,681 crore are currently under implementation across the State. With support from the Union government, Andhra Pradesh has already secured Rs. 428 crore in central grants for eight tourism infrastructure projects, and more assistance is expected in the coming financial year.

As part of a long-term tourism strategy, the government plans to develop seven anchor tourism hubs in Visakhapatnam, Araku, Rajamahendravaram, Amaravati, Srisailam, Gandikota and Tirupati. Additionally, more than 25 thematic tourism circuits are being designed to encourage visitors to explore surrounding destinations instead of limiting their trips to temple visits alone.

Durgesh said the State is organising over 60 festivals annually, including Visakha Utsav, Araku Utsav, Gandikota Utsav and the Amaravati Avakaya Festival,  to build Andhra Pradesh as a strong tourism brand and increase inbound tourist arrivals. He also welcomed the allocation of ₹60 crore for preparatory works ahead of the 2027 Godavari Pushkaram, adding that further assistance would be sought from the Centre.

“Our goal is to make tourism a major growth engine for the State’s economy and position Andhra Pradesh as a ‘Healthy, Wealthy and Happy’ global destination,” Durgesh said.