In a move aimed at tapping the state’s tourism potential, the Telangana Government has unveiled its tourism policy for 2025–2030.
Aimed at revamping the sector through infrastructural growth, investments and global branding, the policy seeks to position Telangana as ‘India’s Most Preferred Destination.’
The comprehensive policy focuses on community empowerment, sustainable practices and world-class services to attract both domestic and international tourists. The policy document was tabled in the Telangana Assembly and Minister Jupally Krishna Rao spoke about it.
The state government, recognising a decade-long gap in cohesive tourism initiatives, emphasized the urgent need for structured interventions. Aiming to attract investments of Rs 15,000 crore and to create three lakh jobs over the next five years, the policy sets targets to place Telangana among the top five tourism states.
The policy introduces 27 Special Tourism Areas (STAs) to leverage the state’s natural, cultural and spiritual heritage. Nine key STAs, including Nagarjuna Sagar, Ramappa, Bhadrachalam, Warangal and Charminar, will receive priority attention. These areas will be equipped with robust infrastructure, adventure activities and facilities like water sports and heritage conservation projects modelled on international standards.
The policy prioritises infrastructure development to make Telangana globally competitive. The initiatives are positioning the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport as the focal point, constructing mega retail malls, promoting river festivals on the Godavari and Krishna rivers, and enhancing waterfronts with eco-tourism facilities. Helipads, golf tourism and specialized shopping experiences along the Regional Ring Road are part of the proposed framework.
The government has adopted public-private partnership (PPP) models with clear incentives in an attempt to attract private investors.
These include capital investment subsidies, state GST reimbursements, and exemptions in land conversion and registration charges. Tourism projects will be categorized into micro, medium, large and mega with incentives reserved for iconic projects such as theme parks and film studios.
The policy also incorporates a strong emphasis on safe tourism, introducing dedicated tourist police units, surveillance systems, and women-friendly measures. Simultaneously, eco-friendly initiatives like green energy, water conservation and plastic-free zones underline the state’s commitment to responsible tourism.
Marketing and branding strategies will play a pivotal role in the policy’s implementation. Telangana Tourism plans to engage professional agencies, strengthen its digital presence, and promote its handlooms, handicrafts, and cuisine through food festivals, fairs and global tourism forums. Notable programmes include the ‘Telangana Darshini’ initiative, aimed at encouraging educational tours for students.
The policy highlights efforts to skill local communities through a hub-and-spoke training model. The state plans to upgrade the National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management (NITHM) into a full-fledged Tourism & Hospitality University to bridge skill gaps. Specialized training programs will ensure the active participation of women and local entrepreneurs.
A calendar of iconic festivals will be created with events like Bathukamma, Kakatiya Festival, International Buddhist Festival, and River Festivals to attract global attention. The Medaram Jatara will be promoted on par with the Kumbh Mela to highlight Telangana’s cultural richness.
A robust institutional mechanism has been outlined for implementation. A State Tourism Promotion Board, chaired by the Chief Minister, will oversee policy execution, while Destination Management Organizations (DMOs), headed by collectors will manage STAs. The policy also integrates frameworks for thematic tourism sectors, including medical, eco and heritage tourism.
The government hopes this landmark policy will significantly enhance Telangana’s contribution to the national tourism map. Officials underscored its potential to create a vibrant ecosystem which fosters prosperity, empowers local communities and safeguards the state’s heritage for future generations.
