Telangana's New Tourism Policy to Develop Nine Special Tourism Areas
The Telangana government has unveiled a new tourism policy aimed at boosting the state’s tourism sector. As part of this initiative, nine special tourism areas (STAs) will be developed on a priority basis. Additionally, the government plans to promote the Bathukamma festival globally to highlight Telangana’s cultural heritage.
During a discussion on the “Telangana State Tourism Policy” in the State Assembly, Tourism Minister Jupally Krishna Rao announced that 27 STAs have been identified across the state. However, the initial focus will be on nine areas with the highest tourist potential. These include Vikarabad, Somasila–Nallamala, Ramappa, Kaleshwaram, Nagarjuna Sagar, Bhadrachalam, Warangal, the Tribal Circuit, and Charminar.
The Minister criticized the previous government, saying, “The BRS regime has neglected the tourism sector for the past ten years. They failed to recognize its importance in creating jobs and boosting the economy.” He added that under the leadership of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, the government aims to transform Telangana into a global tourism destination within the next four and a half years.
To promote fairs and festivals, a special project unit will be set up within the tourism or culture department. The Bathukamma festival, celebrated primarily by women, will be promoted internationally as a unique state festival. Additionally, the Medaram Jathara, a major tribal festival, will be highlighted on the same scale as the Kumbh Mela.
The Minister also addressed the need for skill development to meet the growing demands of the travel and tourism sector. Over the next five years, the government will train a significant number of people to support the sector. “The new policy combines incentives and frameworks to create a supportive ecosystem that attracts investments and drives growth in tourism,” he said.
A key aspect of the policy is its focus on sustainable tourism. Jupally explained that the government aims to align tourism practices with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The policy will encourage green initiatives, eco-friendly practices, and waste minimization while prioritizing environmental conservation and resource efficiency.
The Minister further stated that the policy promotes responsible tourism, which benefits local communities, boosts rural economies, and safeguards cultural heritage. “This approach will ensure long-term economic prosperity and uphold Social, Environmental, and Governance (SESG) principles,” he concluded.
