AP State’s village tourism project on track

Vijayawada: The Andhra Pradesh government is keen to develop village tourism by attracting tourists from across the globe. The government aimed at developing tourism sector and made plans to revive the ancient history and greatness of villages in the state. Initially, 12 villages have been identified and were divided into four clusters.

Madhavamala, Venkatagiri, Lepakshi, Nimmalakunta, Veerapuram, Dinidi, Narsapuram, Uppada and Srikalahasti villages were among those selected under the scheme. The government has also plans to identify some other villages exclusively in Chittoor cluster. The government would provide all facilities, including local guides for the convenience of the tourists to know the importance of villages.

Especially, the tourism department would arrange interactions with the local people. They supply special delicacies of the area and exhibit the arts and culture. The tourism department would provide lodging facilities for tourists with the help of villagers. The dance performance with local talent is a special attraction in the tours. The entire programme is being conducted under public-private participation (PPP).

As part of it, the government has successfully launched the village tourism project recently by inviting tourists from Belgium. The tourists visited Madhavamala village in Chittoor district recently and spent nearly two days. They understood the village culture, lifestyles of villagers. They expressed interest to interact with villagers and know the farming activities.

Interestingly, they also tasted chicken curry and other local delicacies, said tourism department secretary Mukesh Kumar Meena. He said that the foreigners could know the importance of handicrafts and talent of artisans. Eventually, the concept would provide employment to villagers and income to the tourism department. The historical of villages also could be revived, he said.