Thiruvananthapuram, Jan 29 (NationPress) The Kerala Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas announced on Thursday that the increased budgetary allocation for the tourism sector will significantly boost both current and future projects, especially in infrastructure development and destination enhancement.

The state Budget for 2026–27, introduced by Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal in the Assembly, has raised the tourism allocation to Rs 413.52 crore from Rs 385.02 crore in the previous fiscal year, emphasizing the government’s commitment to fostering growth through destination-oriented development, heritage preservation, and marketing expansion.

This Budget prioritizes tourism infrastructure development, Destination Challenge projects, the application of the Design Policy, the creation of tourism hubs, heritage and cultural tourism, Responsible Tourism initiatives, and enhanced marketing campaigns.

To fortify tourism circuits, the government revealed plans for a ‘Blue Green Integrated Tourism Circuit’, with the initial phase set at Dharmadam in Kannur, costing Rs 2 crore.

This project will incorporate the Dharmadam river cruise circuit, Dharmadam Island Bio Reserve, a walking museum, and a mangrove information center.

Work is already in progress on the Kollam Biodiversity Circuit and the Malabar Literary Circuit. Marketing budgets have been increased to Rs 85 crore, with Rs 20 crore allocated to support the Responsible Tourism (RT) Mission Society, further cementing the state’s dedication to community-focused and sustainable tourism.

A substantial portion of the budget—Rs 159 crore—is dedicated to renovating, developing basic infrastructure, and enhancing visitor amenities at tourism centers.

Beypore ‘Uru’ Tourism and Kochi Heritage will each receive Rs 5 crore.

The Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) has been allocated Rs 14.10 crore for various projects.

To encourage investment and entrepreneurship, Rs 13.50 crore is designated for subsidies and incentives related to tourism products and infrastructure.

The Budget also includes Rs 5 crore for the construction of a heliport at Kumarakom and an initial allocation of Rs 1 crore for exploring PPP-based development of the Peechi tourism project.

Heritage-focused initiatives remain a priority, with Rs 14 crore allocated for Muziris Heritage and Spices Routes as well as River Cruise Heritage projects, while Rs 29 crore has been set aside for a new initiative titled Conservation and Promotion of Heritage, Environment and Culture.

The Champions Boat League (CBL) has been allocated Rs 10.46 crore.