Kerala Tourism converting dreams to reality

After the Dream Season package introduced by them to make the lean months from April to October beneficial and transform the state into a round-the-year destination, Kerala Tourism's dream project of the proposed International Convention Centre at Akkulam realised, with V S Achuthanandan, chief minister, laying the foundation stone. The Rs 8,050 million project is expected to be a real boost to the tourism possibilities of the state.

Achuthanandan said that the government would give utmost priority to the tourism sector, with many development-oriented projects. Presiding over the function, Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, minister for tourism, termed this as one of the most proud moments for Kerala Tourism. "It is a giant leap toward for the development of the capital and the tourism sector", he said. Speaking on the occasion, Dr Venu V, secretary, Kerala Tourism said "MICE tourism will get a fillip - not just in the city but also in the South - once the first phase of the ICCC is commissioned". M Sivasankar, director, Kerala Tourism, extended the vote of thanks.

A plenary hall with a capacity of 1,500 persons, a hi-tech hall, three meeting halls, eight meeting rooms, and a VIP room will be the facilities offered by ICCC. Apart from this, there will be a five-star hotel, 25 luxury cottages, gymnasium, spa, marina, water sports and parking facilities.

The Dream Season package has proved successful with many tourist destinations in the state getting boosted with the package. All of the service providers, who have registered for the package, have received a good turnout businesswise. Dr Venu termed this as the success of the efforts to transform the state into a destination for all seasons. Efforts are on to bring the enchanting monsoon season of Kerala, which is also important as a fruitful season according to the traditional system of medicine, ayurveda, more to the international attention, he added.

Rise in tourism revenue

In two years, the revenue from tourism industry has recorded a growth of 10,000 million rupees, informed Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, minister for tourism. Many tourism projects are planned to be implemented with the assistance of National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). The government is concentrating on the infrastructure development of tourism destinations. The existing eco-tourist destinations in the state will be given better facilities, like the building of treetop huts. Dr Venu V, secretary, Kerala Tourism, has viewed the rise in revenue as a reward for the visionary initiatives of Kerala Tourism. With its healthy, eco-friendly and responsible enterprises, Kerala Tourism has already become a model for many, he added.