Thiruvananthapuram: Budget has allocated Rs 326 crore for tourism sector. Though lower than funds sanctioned in the previous years, new govt has announced its intention to declare the sector as an industry and develop destinations, promote heritage, pilgrim, farm, dam and plantation tourism.Presenting the revised budget for 2026-27, chief minister V D Satheesan said that steps will be taken to make tourism a priority sector. “Measures will be initiated to declare tourism as an industry so that all incentives available to industries may also be extended to the tourism sector,” he added.In addition to announcing a pilgrim circuit, amendment of law to use plantations for tourism was also announced in the budget.The minister also announced setting up tourism amenity centres and renovation of houseboat terminals that have fallen into disuse. A modern waste treatment plant will also be set up in Alappuzha to handle waste, including that from houseboats. Satheesan said that brand Wayanad will be created and a Muziris heritage tourism project will be set up.“Muziris tourism project will be made a foremost heritage tourism destination by promoting environmentally sustainable tourism while preserving the ancient monuments in the area. The project will include a live museum, heritage museums and boat journeys through traditional waterways. As much as Rs 19 crore has been allocated for it,” he said.He said that greater emphasis will be given to eco-tourism, biodiversity tourism, mangrove tourism, farm tourism, agri tourism and rural experiential tourism. Community-based tourism hubs and cultural tourism hubs will be established to generate employment while preserving unique heritage, food culture and cultural traditions.“A brand Wayanad concept will be introduced and Ashtamudi Lake tourism will be promoted. Women-led tourism enterprises, homestays and responsible tourism projects will be expanded across the state. Smart tourism applications, including AI-enabled advanced digital tourism platforms, will be developed,” he added.Pathiramanal Island, a popular tourist spot on Vembanad Lake, will get a comprehensive master plan, along with a ropeway connecting it to Muhamma Jetty to make the island more accessible.He also stated that a new Green Marshals scheme will be introduced on a pilot basis in Fort Kochi, Munnar, Kovalam and Alappuzha under which women will be trained to promote cleanliness, responsible visitor behaviour and environmental awareness. Govt will also set up coastal care units to strengthen healthcare access for coastal communities.A project connecting pilgrimage centres such as Arthunkal Basilica, Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Swamy Temple, Kakkazham Mosque, Mannarasala temple, Krishnapuram Palace, Mata Amritanandamayi Math and Ochira Temple will be implemented.He also said that amendments to the law will be brought in to enable the use of more land in plantation areas for tourism purposes.
