The policy will include speedy clearances, safety measures, and world-class infrastructure to ensure ease of doing business

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

The new tourism policy, designed with a sustainable and holistic approach, aspires to attract investments worth Rs.25,000 crore over the next five years said tourism minister Kandula Durgesh here on Tuesday. He was speaking at the tourism investors summit organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and AP Chambers in Vijayawada. He unveiled the New Tourism Policy 2024-2029.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Durgesh outlined the state government’s comprehensive vision for tourism development and assured investors of full support. He emphasized the enormous opportunities in the tourism sector and highlighted the incentives provided under the new policy to encourage investments.

Minister Durgesh detailed the significant incentives and subsidies planned to support investors, adding that the government is committed to providing all necessary infrastructure and ensuring a hassle-free investment process.

“Andhra Pradesh boasts a vast coastline, pristine beaches, historical monuments, natural resources, and vibrant cultural heritage, which give the state an unparalleled edge in tourism development. Under the leadership of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, we are determined to position Andhra Pradesh as the number one tourist destination in India,” Minister Durgesh stated.

He stated that the state government has set ambitious targets to establish 3 eco-tourism circuits, 10 temple tourism circuits, 2 Buddhist circuits, 5 beach circuits, 4 river circuits, and 2 cruise tourism projects. Also, expand hotel infrastructure by increasing the number of available rooms to 50,000, besides enhancing infrastructure and tourism circuits to retain tourists for an average of five days.

The Minister explained that the state will implement Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models to achieve the targeted investments. The policy will include speedy clearances, safety measures, and world-class infrastructure to ensure ease of doing business. “We are determined to implement tourism initiatives with international standards while focusing on safety and sustainability. Our goal is to transform Andhra Pradesh into a globally recognized tourism hub,” said Durgesh.

He also highlighted Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu’s decision to grant the tourism sector industry status, a move expected to unlock further incentives and accelerate development.

Tourism Secretary Vinay Chand emphasized the development of coastal tourism circuits in key regions, including Visakhapatnam, Kakinada, Srikakulam, Nellore, and Machilipatnam. He also outlined plans for river tourism and cruise tourism projects that will be launched in collaboration with the central government.

“The state’s rich resources, such as the Dwadasa Jyotirlingas, Ashtadasha Shakti Peethas, and historical Shiva temples, will be integrated into thematic tourism circuits to attract both domestic and international tourists,” Chand noted.

APTDC Managing Director Amrapali Kata delivered a detailed presentation on the policy’s framework and objectives. She emphasized sustainable tourism development, increased local employment, and positioning Andhra Pradesh as a preferred destination for global tourists.

“We aim to raise employment in the tourism sector from the current 12% to 15% while ensuring responsible and eco-friendly tourism practices. Our vision is to make Andhra Pradesh a top-10 tourism destination in the country,” said Amrapali.

Prominent stakeholders, including CII Chairman Dr. D. Ramakrishna, AP Chambers President P. Bhaskara Rao, and AP Hotels Association President Veeraswamy, lauded the new policy, expressing confidence that it would drive unprecedented growth in the sector.