 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Tourism Finance Corporation to be set up, says minister for Tourism
November 2006: The State Government plans to set up a Kerala Tourism Finance Development Corporation to provide funds for the development of infrastructure facilities, said Mr. Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, Minister for Tourism. The minister was speaking after inaugurating the fifth India International Boat Show (IIBS) held recently in Kochi. Projects have been planned for the development of waterways. The development of the waterway from Kovalam to Manjeswaram would be taken up with central assistance. Tax concessions will be given for eco-friendly houseboats. The IIBS is a boost to the boating and tourism industry in the state.
The Government lays emphasis on the development of infrastructure, the minister said. Mr. C.M. Dinesh Mani, MLA presided over the function that was graced by Dr. Sebastian Paul, MP; Prof. Mercy Williams, Mayor of Cochin, Prof. K.V. Thomas, MLA and Mr. Cherian Philip, Chairman, Kerala Tourism Development Corporation.Speaking on the occasion, Mr. E. K. Bharat Bhushan, Principal Secretary, Tourism, said that there is a 30 percent increase in seller participation for IIBS 2006. Tourism that has emerged as a major sector in the State provides employment to over one million people. Kerala is the fastest growing destination in the world.
The World Travel and Tourism Council has predicted 11.6 pc growth rate for Kerala's tourism sector up to the year 2013, Mr. Bharat Bhushan said. The State has huge potential in marine and leisure tourism, Mr. B. Suman, Director, Kerala Tourism said. The geographical location of the state between Dubai and Singapore, two international boating hubs, is an added benefit. The show also serves a social responsibility since small-scale traditional operators and fishermen in the state are given an opportunity to learn about new technologies, Mr. Suman said.
