VIJAYAWADA: Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday bagged the Tour and Travels Association’s Best Tourism Policy Award.
Speaking at the virtual awards function, special chief secretary Rajat Bhargava pointed out that AP has abundant tourism potential, as it is blessed with the country’s second longest coastline of 974 km, perennial rivers, scenic backwaters, hills, forests, ancient temples and Buddhist sites, in addition to a vibrant heritage and culture.
He commended Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy for considering tourism as one of the growth engines for socio-economic development of the state. Strengths and advantages of tourism in AP are such that both large-scale and small-scale investors can flourish in this area.
The special chief secretary explained the salient features of AP Tourism Policy, which includes creating a congenial environment for co-creation of diverse tourism products focusing on rural, heritage, Buddhist, beach, water, recreation, adventure, religious, cuisine, wellness, medical and eco-tourism.
Rajat Bhargava stated that the government’s aim is to provide best quality experience at all touch points of tourists visiting the state, promote responsible tourism practices among all stakeholders, foster skill development, position the state as a preferred tourism destination nationally and globally, and facilitate private investments and entrepreneurship in the tourism sector.
