In a celebratory event marking World Tourism Day, Ms. R K Roja, Minister for Tourism and Culture, Andhra Pradesh unveiled significant achievements and developments in the tourism sector in Andhra Pradesh. With a focus on attracting more tourists and enhancing the state’s tourism infrastructure, these achievements demonstrate the state’s commitment to becoming a top tourist destination.
Revenue Growth and Tourist Attractions
For the fiscal year 2022-23, the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) reported a substantial increase in revenue. A staggering Rs 163 crore was earned, reflecting a growth rate of 10.82% compared to the previous year. Minister Roja credited the appeal of beautiful beaches, hill stations, seafood, and water-based recreational activities as the key factors driving tourist footfall. The government is investing in infrastructure facilities to further enhance the state’s allure for tourists.
National Ranking and Aspirations
In a remarkable feat, Andhra Pradesh secured the third position in national tourism in the 2022-23 fiscal year. As the state looks forward to the current financial year, its goal is to achieve the top position in the tourism sector.
Awards and Recognition
The occasion also witnessed the presentation of tourism excellence awards, honoring those who have made significant contributions to the tourism industry in Andhra Pradesh.
Nature: The Future of Andhra Pradesh
Minister Roja expressed a profound belief in the natural beauty of Andhra Pradesh as the state’s future. She highlighted the recognition of Lepakshi village in the Sathya Sai district as one of the best tourist villages in the silver category, a proud achievement for the state.
Modern Infrastructure and Investments
The Andhra Pradesh government, under the guidance of Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, is actively working to attract more tourists and investments by providing state-of-the-art infrastructure facilities. With a rich historical heritage, tranquil beaches, pristine reserve forests, picturesque hill stations, and iconic tourist destinations, Andhra Pradesh boasts 972 kilometers of stunning coastline with beautiful resorts and beaches.
Investment Facilitation and Future Developments
To facilitate investment in the tourism sector, the Investors Facilitation Cell (IFC) was established, aligning with the Tourism Policy of 2020-25. Minister Roja recalled a momentous occasion when Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy laid the foundation for the construction of 7-star Oberoi Group hotels in Vizag, Tirupati, and Gandikota. Additionally, plans are in place to construct four more hotels across the state.
Temple Tourism and Development
Temple tourism will be a pivotal focus area, with plans for development in collaboration with the Endowments Department and the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).
Swadesh Darshan and Central Government Support
Under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, initiatives for the development of destinations like Gandikota, Araku, and Lambasingi have received approval from the Central government.
Celebrating Excellence: Awards Ceremony
The prestigious Tourism Excellence Awards ceremony took place in Vijayawada, attended by prominent officials from the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Authority. Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Youth Advancement, Roja Selvamani, presented these accolades.
Honoring the Best: Award Recipients
Several exceptional establishments received recognition, highlighting their excellence in the tourism industry. Notable winners included Radisson Blu Resort Visakhapatnam, honored with the Best 5-star Deluxe award, and The Taj Tirupati, which received the Best 5-Star Hotel in Andhra Pradesh award. The Best 3-star hotel award went to Minerva Grand Hotel Vijayawada.
Consistent Excellence in Inbound Tourism
Travel IQ Global Solutions received the AP Tourism Excellence Award for “Best Inbound Tour Operator” for the fifth consecutive year. Holiday World was awarded for being the most innovative tour operator. The awards were presented to Travel IQ MD Muralikrishna and Mr. Kanneganti Vijay Mohan, MD, and CEO at Holiday World, by Minister Roja.
Honoring Exceptional Venues and Dining
Novotel Visakhapatnam Varun Beach was recognized as the ‘Best Hotel-Based Meeting Venue.’ Meanwhile, the ‘Best Restaurant in a Hotel’ award was bestowed upon Food Exchange at Novotel Vijayawada Varun.
Vijayawada Railway Station: A Tourist-Friendly Gem
Vijayawada railway station earned acclaim as the ‘Best Tourist-Friendly Station.’ It excelled in all nine parameters and criteria outlined by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Authority. Divisional Railway Manager Narendra A Patil expressed his pride in the station’s achievement, emphasizing its tourist-friendly infrastructure, ease of access, and dedication to maintenance.
Community-Led Success
The ‘Best Civic Management of Tourist Destination’ award was presented to Pandurangapuram village of Nandyala Mandal, Vijayawada. Village Sarpanch Errabolu Dolavati and community representatives Uma Maheshwar Reddy, Appi Reddy, and Manjulawani shared their happiness at receiving this accolade at the state level.
Recognizing Culinary Excellence and Digital Presence
Chef Bhaskar of The Taj Tirupati was honored with the Best Chef award, celebrating his culinary expertise. Additionally, Yo Vizag received the award for the ‘Best Tourism Website,’ recognizing its commitment to promoting the region.
These achievements and acknowledgments signify the state’s dedication to the tourism sector’s growth and development, further solidifying Andhra Pradesh’s place on the global tourism map. The combination of natural beauty, rich history, and commitment to infrastructure and service excellence positions the state as a promising destination for travelers and investors alike.
Also, read
Indulgence Over Economy: TravClan’s Report
Watch on Youtube
