Andhra Pradesh has put technology at the center of tourism, says minister Kandula Durgesh
Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh at the International Tourism Innovation Summit-2026 in Seville, Spain on Wednesday. | Photo credit: Special Arrangements
Andhra Pradesh is taking a major step to transform the tourism sector through artificial intelligence and digital technologies, Tourism, Culture and Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh said on Wednesday at the International Tourism Innovation Summit-2026 in Seville, Spain.
NiVU AI
Speaking at a summit at the Seville-FIBES venue, the minister introduced NiVU AI (Neural Intelligence Vernacular Unified Model), developed by Explurger, as part of the state’s efforts to build smart tourism destinations.
Under the agreement between the Government of Andhra Pradesh and Explurger, AI-powered services will be introduced in more than 100 major tourist and pilgrimage destinations.
Tourists will be able to scan the ‘ASK AI’ QR code to access destination information in over 130 languages without having to download an app or pay any fees, Mr. Durgesh said, adding that the initiative has already been implemented at the Sri Panakala Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Mangalagiri, with the first phase covering 30 major destinations.
Describing Andhra Pradesh as a unique blend of spirituality, heritage, nature and culture, Mr. Durgesh said the state offers an extraordinary journey, from Tirumala hills and the ancient Buddhist heritage of Amaravati to the landscapes of Gandikota, Maredumilli forests, Araku valley and Visakhapatnam beaches.
The minister said the technology will enable international visitors to interact with artificial intelligence in their preferred language, understand the history and cultural significance of places and discover nearby attractions. It would also provide real-time analysis of tourist preferences, languages and behavior, which would help the state plan future tourism initiatives.
Mr Durgesh said innovation in tourism should go beyond technology and focus on improving visitor experiences, supporting local employment and promoting responsible tourism. He invited travel technology companies, startups, universities, investors and tourism operators to partner with Andhra Pradesh.
“Don’t just come to Andhra Pradesh as tourists, come as partners,” he told global tourism stakeholders, calling for investment in AI-based tourism services, digital tools and smart destination management.
“If you think you’ve seen India before, come to Andhra Pradesh sometime. We’re sure to surprise you,” he said.
Published – 8 Oct 2026 0:02 IST