
Naidu to lay foundation for grand Gandikota tourism project
Speaking to the media at Nidadavolu, minister outlined the govt's upcoming plans to transform the tourism sector and draw in industrial investments.
On Friday, chief minister Chandrababu Naidu will lay the foundation stone for a prestigious 78-crore Gandikota tourism project in YSR Kadapa district, under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme in collaboration with the central govt. The event is scheduled to take place in the afternoon at Gandikota, following the conclusion of the pension distribution program in Jammalamadugu.
Minister Durgesh emphasized that the project is part of the government's vision to revitalize tourism infrastructure in the region, showcasing Gandikota as a heritage and adventure tourism destination.
Further, on Saturday and Sunday, Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) will organize a major tourism exhibition in Udaipur, Rajasthan. The exhibition aims to engage young entrepreneurs and industrialists from northern states and invite them to invest in Andhra Pradesh's tourism sector.
In addition, minister Durgesh announced that the state will host a major partnership summit in Visakhapatnam on November 14 and 15, marking the return of high-profile investment conclaves under the new TDP-led administration. The summit is expected to open doors for multi-sectoral investments, with a special focus on infrastructure, hospitality, and tourism.
A cabinet sub-committee has been formed to oversee preparations for the summit.
Minister Durgesh confirmed that minister Nara Lokesh has been appointed as the chairman of the committee, while he himself will serve as one of the key members. The summit will serve as a platform to showcase Andhra Pradesh's investor-friendly policies and attract both domestic and international investors.
Durgesh noted that during Naidu's earlier tenure, the partnership summit was held annually, particularly in Visakhapatnam, and resulted in substantial investments as many enthusiastic entrepreneurs responded positively to the state's proactive approach.
He also criticized the previous YSRCP govt, stating that during their five-year term, there was no consistent policy to promote investment or tourism, except for holding a solitary meeting that lacked follow-through. He affirmed that the current government, under CM Naidu and deputy CM Pawan Kalyan, is fully committed to reinvigorating the state's investment climate through sustained engagement and robust summits.
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