Latest news with #APTDC


Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
AP forms high-level panel to fast-track MSME tourism projects
Vijayawada: In a move to accelerate tourism development and promote entrepreneurship in the state, the govt has constituted a high-level committee to oversee the land allotment process for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) under Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode. This follows the rollout of the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Land Allotment Policy 2024–2029 and aligns with the overarching Tourism Policy 2024–2029. According to the Govt Order on Thursday night, the newly-formed committee will facilitate the transparent allotment of govt land to eligible MSME tourism projects. The committee is designed to ensure efficient, sustainable, and investor-friendly project implementation across tourism infrastructure, including hotels, resorts, wellness centres, amusement parks, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities, and more. The committee will be chaired by the vice chairman and managing director (VC&MD) of the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC). The chief executive officer of the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Authority will serve as co-chairman, while the executive director (projects) of APTDC is designated as the member convener. Additional members of the committee include representatives from the finance department, a transaction advisory consultant nominated by the VC&MD of APTDC, general manager/AGM (PPP) from APTDC, the chief general manager (projects) of INCAP (Infrastructure Corporation of Andhra Pradesh), and industry and academic experts as required for specific projects. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Technical officers such as the estate officer and chief engineer/superintending engineer of APTDC will be involved as invitees to provide technical scrutiny during the decision-making process. The decision to form this committee was based on proposals submitted by the VC&MD of APTDC under Rule 6.2 of the land allotment policy. The primary objective is to create a robust ecosystem that not only encourages private investment but also simplifies the approval process and ensures sustainable tourism growth. The vice-chairman and managing director of APTDC is directed to take further necessary action to operationalise the committee and initiate transparent bidding for MSME tourism projects.


New Indian Express
02-07-2025
- New Indian Express
Adventure tourism: APTDC gets 130 applications
VIJAYAWADA: The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) has received an overwhelming response to its newly launched adventure tourism policy, with over 130 applications submitted by individuals and organisations keen to operate land, water, and air-based adventure activities. These applications are currently under detailed review, and APTDC is expected to announce a second window for submissions soon. The surge in interest follows the release of Government Order Ms. No. 15, which introduced a robust regulatory and operational framework aimed at promoting eco-friendly, safe, and inclusive adventure tourism. The policy is also intended to create local employment opportunities, particularly for youth. Under the new guidelines, Adventure Tour Operators (ATOs) must register and obtain licences, conduct safety audits, and provide first-aid training for guides. The policy also prohibits minors under 18 from participating in high-risk activities. Adventure tourism has been categorised into land (trekking, rock climbing, ATV), water (scuba diving, kayaking, river cruising), and air (paragliding, skydiving, air safaris) segments. APTDC Managing Director Dr. Amrapali Kata said the policy ensures responsible tourism across the state. 'Our goal is to position Andhra Pradesh as a leading adventure tourism destination while prioritising safety and sustainability,' she said. The G.O. outlines strict responsibilities for operators, including following 'Leave No Trace' environmental ethics, using certified equipment, offering insurance coverage of at least Rs 2 lakh per participant, and clearly displaying risk signage at activity locations. A dedicated monitoring committee and periodic safety inspections will ensure compliance. Operators found violating norms—especially those linked to accidents—face penalties, blacklisting, or licence cancellation. With structured regulations and growing interest from potential operators, Andhra Pradesh is on track to emerge as a major adventure tourism hub in the country.


New Indian Express
29-06-2025
- Business
- New Indian Express
State-of-the-art caravans usher in a new chapter in AP travel and tourism
VIJAYAWADA: Unveiled by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu at the Tourism Tech AI 2.0 Conclave in Vijayawada on Friday, state-of-the-art caravans usher in a new chapter in travel and tourism in Andhra Pradesh. In collaboration with Hyderabad Luxe Caravans, the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) showcased two high-end caravans, a 10 or 12-seater, and a 6-seater at the conclave. The luxurious vehicles drew widespread attention for their stylish design, and premium amenities. Each caravan is fully equipped with star hotel-grade features, including a bed, a mini-conference area, television, fridge, microwave, kitchen, AC, washroom, sound system, and security cameras. The State government is set to unveil the new caravan tourism policy by July 30. It is aimed at bridging the shortage of star hotel rooms in popular tourist circuits. By then, the government plans to deploy more caravans across major tourist destinations. The caravan cost for a family of 12, including two children, will be less than car travel and star hotel accommodation, besides the rich experience. Explaining the bold new initiative, Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation Managing Director Amrapali Kata, said, 'Construction of star hotels is a costly affair. That's why we are introducing luxury caravans to overcome the shortage of rooms. The high-end facilities in the caravans will amaze tourists.'


Hans India
28-06-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Durgesh outlines vision for AP tourism, calls for more support from investors
Vijayawada: Tourism minister Kandula Durgesh on Friday emphasised the critical need for investor cooperation to accelerate tourism projects, develop robust infrastructure, provide world-class experiences for tourists, and ensure benefits for local communities. He participated on the second day of the AP Tourism Conclave Tech AI 2.0 jointly organised by the Global Forum for Sustainable Tourism and APTDC. Durgesh said that Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu's decision to grant industrial status to the tourism sector has significantly boosted its development. 'This is the opportune moment for investors to invest,' Durgesh declared, contrasting the current government's proactive approach with the 'lack of tourism development' in the state over the past five years. Durgesh stressed that the government's primary objectives are economic development and job creation for youth in Andhra Pradesh, with tourism playing a pivotal role in the development of all regions. He noted that the Centre has already sanctioned hundreds of crores of rupees through schemes like Swadeshi Darshan 2.0, PRASAD, SAASKI, and CBDD. The minister confirmed that tourism development would be pursued through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models. He outlined the state's goal to showcase its 974 km long coastline, natural beauty, and historical monuments to the world. He also revealed that Europeans have expressed interest in investing in wellness centers in AP. He gave details of six key areas guiding AP's tourism sector: Branding, marketing, product development, projects, investments, partnerships, tech enablement, creative economy and capacity building. The minister invited investors to put their money into AP, promising a free and conducive environment. He urged them to forget the 'shadows of sorrow' from the previous government, emphasising the long-term tourism pathways being laid and the commitment to improving employment opportunities in the sector. 'Andhra Pradesh tourism is conducive to investments. Share your ideas with the government, and it's our responsibility to provide assurance when you come with investments,' he added.


New Indian Express
28-06-2025
- Business
- New Indian Express
APTDC signs MoUs worth Rs 10.3k crore at tourism conclave
VIJAYAWADA: In a significant boost to the tourism sector, the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) signed 82 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) for investments amounting to Rs 10,329 crore during the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Conclave Tech AI 2.0. The MoUs, signed in the presence of Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu, span wellness, eco-tourism, caravan tourism, hospitality infrastructure, homestays, and digital solutions. Launching the AP Tourism Digital Calendar, the Chief Minister said the investments reflect restored confidence in the State's governance and vision. 'Tourism is not just an economic activity; it is a tool for empowerment, employment, and environment-friendly development,' he said. Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh said the partnerships align with the 2024–29 Tourism Policy, which grants industrial status to the sector. The policy offers 100% stamp duty exemption, electricity duty reimbursement, SGST incentives, and fast-tracked approvals. The MoUs include plans for luxury resorts, spiritual circuits, heritage restoration, medical and wellness tourism. APTDC MD Amrapali Kata said real-time dashboards will monitor project milestones and investor facilitation to ensure transparency and accountability. GFST Director Ch Kutumba Rao and Vice Chairman SP Tucker said the State is poised to lead in tourism-driven development.