AP Chambers Tourism panel seeks MSME tag for projects up to ₹50 crore

The Andhra Pradesh Federation of Commerce and Industry (AP Chambers) State Tourism Committee, led by Chairman RV Swamy and AP Chambers President Bhaskara Rao, held a meeting with Special Principal Secretary Tourism and Culture Ajay Jain and Executive Director and General Manager (FAC) Padmavathi to discuss measures to boost the tourism industry in Andhra Pradesh.

The committee presented several key proposals aimed at accelerating the development of tourism. It demanded that tourism projects up to ₹50 crore be included in MSME support schemes to facilitate access to incentives, funding and government assistance. The committee also sought to relax financial eligibility requirements, including turnover and net worth criteria, for genuine investors who develop tourism projects on their own land.

To strengthen tourism promotion, the committee proposed the creation of a network of 50 active tour operators and travel agencies to aggressively market Andhra Pradesh in both domestic and international markets. Concerns were also raised regarding the shortage of skilled labor in the hospitality sector and suggestions to strengthen training and skills development initiatives.

In addition, the committee recommended the formation of a Tourism Stakeholders Committee that would meet every two months to address challenges in the industry and ensure timely resolution of issues.

Mr. Ajay Jain emphasized the importance of cooperation between stakeholders and reiterated the government’s commitment to significantly increase tourist arrivals and position Andhra Pradesh as a leading tourist destination.

Published – 19 Jun 2026 0:58 IST