Tourism Minister Kandula Minister speaks at the GTM-2026, held at Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, on Thursday.
| Photo Credit: HANDOUT
Andhra Pradesh Tourism, Culture and Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh on Thursday received “Best Tourism Promotion State” award at the Global Travel Market (GTM) 2026, held at Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala.
The Minister dedicated the recognition to the collective efforts of the people of Andhra Pradesh, the State government, tourism stakeholders and industry partners. He credited the visionary leadership of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan for driving transformative reforms in the tourism sector.
The Minister highlighted the State’s progressive Tourism Policy 2024–29, investor-friendly incentives, and the development of seven anchor tourism hubs and more than 25 thematic tourism circuits. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making Andhra Pradesh a world-class tourism destination by 2047.
During the event, Andhra Pradesh showcased its diverse tourism offerings, including spiritual, beach, eco, adventure, cruise, wellness, heritage, Buddhist and culinary tourism. Mr. Durgesh also invited global investors to explore opportunities in the State’s rapidly growing tourism ecosystem.
A major highlight of the event was the announcement that ‘GTM 2027’ would be hosted in Andhra Pradesh on September 27, 2027, coinciding with World Tourism Day.
The Minister noted that Andhra Pradesh recorded 364.2 million tourist visits in 2025–26, while international tourist arrivals witnessed growth of over 48 %. He said with its rich cultural heritage, 1,054-km coastline, renowned pilgrimage centres, wildlife reserves, backwaters and iconic destinations, Andhra Pradesh continues to emerge as one of India’s most dynamic tourism destinations.
“This award strengthens our resolve to position Andhra Pradesh as a leading force in India’s tourism growth story,” Minister Durgesh said.
Published – June 04, 2026 11:41 pm IST
