Tourism News
Kerala Tourism Receives Central Boost to Enhance Iconic Destinations
Union Minister for Tourism Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat emphasized Kerala’s significant role in India’s tourism growth and assured full support from the central government to bolster the state’s pioneering initiatives. At a recent review meeting in Thiruvananthapuram, Shri Shekhawat highlighted that while Kerala continues to introduce innovative tourism products, the state should also concentrate on developing one or two iconic destinations to solidify its international appeal.
Recognizing Kerala’s immense potential, Shri Shekhawat recommended special attention to areas such as beach tourism, Ayurveda, wellness, heritage, pilgrim, and spiritual tourism. He noted Kerala's proactive approach in creating novel tourism experiences and encouraged further innovations to maintain its competitive edge.
Shri. P. A. Mohamed Riyas, Minister, Kerala Tourism, highlighted Kerala's ongoing global marketing campaigns aimed at promoting the state’s diverse attractions. Shri Riyas appealed for central clearance for a special package dedicated to Ayurveda and beach tourism, aimed at significantly increasing domestic and international tourist arrivals, ultimately enhancing India's foreign earnings.
Union Minister of State for Tourism Shri Suresh Gopi also participated in the review meeting. Smt. Sikha Surendran, Director, Kerala Tourism, presented updates on major tourism projects underway, including the Pilgrim Tourism Circuit project encompassing significant sites such as Sabarimala Temple, Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple, and Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple.
Key developments under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 and PRASAD schemes were reviewed, along with significant regional projects such as the Thalassery Spiritual Nexus, Beypore developments, Kumarakom enhancements, and the Varkala Sivagiri initiatives. Progress on various tourism-related proposals submitted by Kerala to the central government was also discussed.
With comprehensive collaboration between state and central authorities, Kerala is set to further enrich its tourism landscape, attract global attention and strengthen its already robust tourism economy. Such strategic focus promises to establish Kerala firmly as a top-tier international tourism hub, driving substantial economic growth and enhancing cultural exchange.
