How did Telangana secure over Rs 22,000 crore in tourism investments?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Telangana secured Rs 22,324 crore in tourism investments for 2025.
- Projected creation of 90,000 jobs through tourism development.
- Significant cultural events, including Miss World 2025, are planned.
- New 'Tourist Police' force enhances visitor safety.
- Digital transformation initiatives include online portals and travel cards.
Hyderabad, Dec 31 (NationPress) Telangana has successfully attracted investment commitments totaling Rs 22,324 crore in the tourism sector for the year 2025.
The state’s tourism department released a detailed year-end review on Wednesday, declaring it a transformative year that positioned Telangana as a leading global tourism destination.
This report highlighted a substantial influx of investments and a significant upgrade of infrastructure, reshaping Telangana’s status on the international tourism landscape.
This surge in capital, fueled by the ambitious "Telangana Tourism Policy 2025-2030," is expected to create around 90,000 new jobs.
A large part of this growth was driven by the Tourism Conclave 2025, which drew in 30 projects worth Rs 15,279 crore, while the Telangana Rising Global Summit contributed an additional Rs 7,045 crore.
Prominent international investors have pledged their support for significant initiatives in the convention, cultural, and wellness sectors.
The year was marked by remarkable cultural achievements and unprecedented international exposure.
The hosting of the Miss World 2025 pageant in Hyderabad acted as a powerful branding opportunity, highlighting the state’s modern infrastructure and its "Safe and Friendly" environment to a worldwide audience.
Moreover, the state celebrated two Guinness World Records during the Bathukamma festival for the tallest floral arrangement (19.44 meters) and the largest folk dance performance featuring 1,354 women.
The department emphasized that safety and digital innovation were key priorities. The introduction of the specialized "Tourist Police" force, consisting of 80 members, has set a standard for visitor safety, successfully managing emergency rescues and property recoveries at major heritage locations.
In parallel, the department is advancing its digital transformation by launching a Unified Online Tourism Portal, utilizing GIS-based mapping, and offering Digital Travel Cards for hassle-free, cashless access to attractions.
Infrastructure development reached new milestones with the completion of 78 out of 123 initiated state projects. Additionally, projects worth Rs 275 crore are underway under central schemes like Swadesh Darshan 2.0 and PRASHAD, which include an Eco-Tourism Zone at Ananthagiri Hills and an Experiential Zone at Bhongir Fort.
The department also expanded water tourism by introducing the "Muchukunda," a double-deck boat with 120 seats at Hussain Sagar.
The 2026 Roadmap, presented in the report, lays out an ambitious agenda focused on high-tech engagement and niche tourism.
Noteworthy plans for the coming year involve the full activation of a Heli-Tourism circuit linking Hyderabad, Somasila, and Srisailam.
A standout feature of the 2026 strategy is the establishment of premium wedding destinations at Nagarjuna Sagar, Baswapur, and Somasila, aimed at tapping into the booming global destination wedding market.
To usher in the new year, the department will organize various international events in January, including the International Kite and Sweet Festival with participation from 19 countries, a Hot Air Balloon Festival featuring European flyers, and an advanced Drone Show at Gachibowli Stadium.