Title: Pre-Budget Meetings: Deputy CM Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka Stresses on Revenue Augmentation and Tourism Development
Hyderabad, Date: In a crucial pre-budget meeting, Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka convened discussions with officials from the Prohibition & Excise, Tourism, Culture, and Archaeology departments at the Secretariat. The meeting also saw the participation of Minister for Excise and Prohibition, Tourism, and Culture, Jupally Krishna Rao.
Key Points Discussed:
Deputy CM Vikramarka emphasized the imperative to identify potential sources for augmenting excise revenue without raising liquor prices. He underscored the need to establish elite bars/shops following a uniform and justifiable pattern, urging the formulation of policy guidelines. The Deputy CM advocated the creation of multidimensional teams involving excise, police, and information departments to develop an action plan for raising awareness against the drug menace.
Tourism Development Focus:
Highlighting the state’s high potential for temple tourism and eco-tourism, Vikramarka called for coordinated efforts among the Departments of Endowment, Tourism, and RTC. He stressed the need for a comprehensive tourism policy, earmarking specific destinations for development as tourist centers. The Deputy CM urged officials to expose the state’s cultural heritage to the international audience.
Private Investment in Tourism Infrastructure:
Minister Jupally Krishna Rao emphasized that the government alone cannot undertake all tourism projects. He suggested the formulation of guidelines to encourage private players to invest in tourism infrastructure projects, fostering a collaborative approach for holistic tourism development.
Departmental Proposals:
The Excise Department proposed budget allocations for the construction of office buildings and strengthening of check posts. Similarly, the Tourism Department sought funds for developing new tourist destinations and spill-over works.
Officials in Attendance:
Special Chief Secretary Finance Ramakrishna Rao, Special Chief Secretary Excise Sunil Sharma, Principal Secretary Tourism and Culture Sailaja Ramaiyer, along with senior officials from excise, tourism, culture, and archaeology, participated in the meeting.
As the state gears up for budget considerations, these discussions reflect a strategic focus on revenue enhancement and tourism development to propel overall economic growth and cultural exposure.
