Kerala Budget Boosts Tourism with 413.52 Crore Allocation, New Blue-Green Circuit

Thiruvananthapuram: Tourism in Kerala is set to receive a new impetus through the state budget, said Minister P.A. Mohammed Riyas. The budget allocation for the tourism sector has been increased from 385.02 crore rupees to 413.52 crore rupees. Priority areas include heritage and cultural tourism promotion, infrastructure development, Destination Challenge projects, implementation of design policy, development of tourism hubs, marketing, and responsible tourism.

A new scheme called “Blue-Green Integrated Tourism Circuit” has been announced to develop tourism circuits. The first phase will be implemented in Dharmadom, Kannur district, with an outlay of 2 crore rupees. The project includes the Dharmadom River Cruise Circuit, Dharmadom Island Bio Reserve, Walking Museum, and Mangrove Information Center. Work is also progressing on the Kollam Biodiversity Circuit and Malabar Literary Circuit, the budget noted.

The budget has increased the allocation for marketing activities to 85 crore rupees. 20 crore rupees has been earmarked for Responsible Tourism (RT) initiatives. 159 crore rupees is allocated for renovation and infrastructure development at tourism centers, and 5 crore rupees each has been allocated for new projects such as Beypore ‘Uru’ Tourism and Kochi Heritage. 14 crore rupees has been set aside for projects including Muziris Heritage, Spices Routes, and River Cruise Heritage. 1 crore rupee has been allocated for studies on the Oceanarium project in the Kochi Vypeen area.

To make Kerala’s traditional festivals and cultural programs more attractive and to promote and preserve heritage, environment, and culture, the government has earmarked 29 crore rupees, the minister added.