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Tourism & Heritage Investment
🏞️ ₹177 Crore Sanctioned for Akhanda Godavari & Gandikota Circuits in Andhra Pradesh
In a major push to revive heritage tourism, Minister for Tourism & Cinematography, Kandula Durgesh, announced that the Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned ₹177 crore under the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (2023–24) scheme. This fund will develop two iconic circuits — Akhanda Godavari and Gandikota — through a Public-Private-People Partnership (PPPP) model.
🌺 Akhanda Godavari Circuit – ₹98 Crore
- Reviving the century-old Havelock Bridge into a heritage walkway over the Godavari River.
- Upgrading the famous Kadiyam flower nurseries into a vibrant tourist attraction.
- Strengthening riverine tourism, local livelihoods, and cultural ecology.
🏰 Gandikota Circuit – ₹79 Crore
- Restoration of the 12th-century Gandikota Fort, a gem of medieval Deccan architecture.
- Beautification of the Penna River Gorge, famously known as the “Grand Canyon of India.”
- Fort reflects the legacy of Kalyani Chalukyas, followed by the Golconda Sultanate, blending Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.
- Development of eco-tourism facilities, improved amenities, and sustainable hospitality infrastructure.
🧭 Why Gandikota Matters
| Element | Importance |
|---|---|
| Dynastic Heritage | Seat of Kalyani Chalukyas, later part of Golconda Sultanate |
| Architecture | A unique blend of Islamic arches and Hindu temple art |
| Geography | The Penna River Gorge and Erramala Hills form a breathtaking landscape |
| Cultural Magnet | A rising star on India’s adventure and heritage tourism map |
💰 Capital Investment Scheme (2023-24) – A Quick Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launched by | Ministry of Finance |
| Fund Type | ₹1.3 lakh crore interest-free loans (50 years) |
| Objective | Support state infrastructure, employment, and tourism revival post-COVID |
Key Components:
- Part I: ₹1 lakh crore for state-led capital works (tax-share basis).
- Parts II–IV: Vehicle scrappage, urban reforms, and housing for police.
- Part VI: Supports Make in India, ODOP, and Unity Malls.
- Part VII: ₹5,000 crore for Digital Libraries in panchayats and wards.
📸 From restoring riverside forts to celebrating floral legacies — Andhra Pradesh is shaping itself into a timeless confluence of culture, commerce, and community-led tourism.
