Latest news with #andCinematography
The Hindu
13-06-2025
- The Hindu
A.P. Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh expresses delight over GSI recognition for Belum Caves
Minister for Tourism, Culture and Cinematography Kandula Durgesh on Friday expressed happiness over the inclusion of Belum Caves in the Geological Heritage list by the Geological Survey of India (GSI). Located in Kolimigundla mandal of Nandyal district, Belum Caves represent ancient culture and heritage, with a history dating back to around 450 BCE and spanning an area of approximately 23 acres. In a statement, the Minister said the GSI's declaration was expected to further enhance the tourism potential of the caves, and that the recognition would pave the way for development of the region. The Belum Caves were known to be the second largest underground cave system in the world and the longest in India, the Minister said, adding that they had gained international acclaim. He highlighted the mesmerising natural underground formations within the caves, which not only captivate visitors but also provide a unique and pleasant experience. He said lakhs of tourists visit the site annually, and added that efforts would be made to promote the site more extensively to attract both domestic and international tourists. Mr. Durgesh said the Rayalaseema region was rich with spiritual destinations such as Tirumala, Ahobilam, Mahanandi, Yaganti, Srisailam, Brahmamgari Matham, Gandikota, Siddavatam, Gandi and Horsley Hills, among many other places, and all these places would be developed further. 'A matter of pride' Meanwhile, addressing the media in Nandyal, Minister for Roads and Buildings B.C. Janardhan Reddy hailed the decision of the GSI. 'It is a very proud moment for the people of the Banaganapalle Assembly constituency,' Mr. Reddy said, adding that the rare recognition would place the famous caves on the national tourism map. He reiterated that the government would initiate all measures to develop the caves so that it could transform into a global tourist destination, which in turn would galvanise employment and economic opportunities in the region. 'The Department of Tourism will soon come up with a comprehensive action plan to attract both domestic and international visitors,' Mr. Reddy said.
Hans India
08-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Deputy CM to lay foundation for Akhanda Godavari Project foundation
Rajamahendravaram: The foundation of the prestigious Akhanda Godavari Tourism Project aimed at showcasing the historical and cultural magnificence of Godavari region, will be formally held on June 19, announced by State Tourism, Culture, and Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh. The ground-breaking ceremony will be jointly performed by Deputy Chief Minister Konidela Pawan Kalyan and MP Daggubati Purandeswari, with the support of the Central government, he said. The Minister conducted a field visit on Saturday to oversee the arrangements for the upcoming event, inspecting key sites like Pushkar Ghat and theHavelock Bridge alongside district officials. He issued directions to ensure the smooth execution of the programme. Speaking on the occasion, Minister Durgesh said the project is being taken up with a sanction of Rs 97 crore under the SASCI 2024–25 (Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment) scheme. The works will span across Rajamahendravaram, Dowleswaram, Kadiyam, Kovvur, and Nidadavolu, aiming for completion before the 2027 Godavari Pushkaralu. He said that the project will significantly transform several locations in East Godavari district, adding new dimensions of beauty and improved tourist amenities. District Collector P Prasanthi stated that the 127-year-old Havelock Bridge, a heritage icon, will undergo beautification and modernisation. Proposed developments include waterfalls, glass bridges, a gaming zone, a space-themed park, an urban hot craft bazaar, hanging gardens, a hologram zoo, time travel experience zones, a rail museum, and an aquarium tunnel. These attractions are expected to position the location as a major tourism hotspot. The Pushkar Ghat will also be further developed, and both the ghat and the Havelock Bridge will be integrated into a single dynamic tourist destination, she added. Joint Collector S Chinna Rammudu, Municipal Commissioner Ketan Garg, RDO R Krishna Naik, Rajamahendravaram City MLA Adireddy Srinivas,and District TourismOfficer P Venkatachalam participated.
Hans India
08-06-2025
- General
- Hans India
Yoga must be a part of daily life: Minister
Rajamahendravaram: Tourism, Culture and Cinematography Minister Kandula Durgesh emphasised the importance of incorporating yoga into daily life, noting that it promotes both physical health and mental well-being. He participated as the chief guest at the Yogandhra programme held on Saturday at Sri Satyadeva Nursery in Kadiyapulanka village, Kadiyam mandal, of Rajamahendravaram Rural constituency. The event was organised in Kadiyam Nurseries, a popular tourist destination under the aegis of the Sir Arthur Cotton Nursery Association. Minister Durgesh, along with local MLA Gorantla Butchaiah Chowdary, District Collector P Prasanthi, and other officials, took part in Surya Namaskar, Pranayama, and various yoga asanas. The Minister called on everyone to incorporate yoga into their daily routines for a healthier life. He stated that yoga, along with meditation and physical exercise, plays a key role in managing stress and improving mental resilience. A poster created by EAGLE (Elite Anti-Narcotics Group for Law Enforcement) as part of the anti-drug campaign was released by the Minister at this event. District Collector P Prasanthi said that the Yogandhra campaign, designed as a month-long programme was launched by the Chief Minister to spread awareness on the significance of regular yoga practice. MLA Gorantla Butchaiah Chowdary said that India introduced yoga to the world and expressed pride that over 170 countries now observe International Yoga Day annually. As part of the programme, a mango plant was ceremonially named 'Yogandhra 11' by Minister Durgesh, while another plant was named 'PSN 5' by Collector Prasanthi. Vriksha Vilapam song, penned by District School Education Officer K Vasudeva Rao, was also performed. District Yogandhra Nodal Officer and Joint Collector S Chinna Rammudu, nursery owners Kuppala Durga Rao, Pulla Peda Satyanarayana, Merla Krishna, Pulla Veera Venkata Rao, Nursery Association President Ratnam Ayyappa, RDO R Krishna Naik, District Tourism Officer P Venkatachalam, AP MIP PD A Durgesh, District Agriculture Officer S Madhava Rao, Information Officer Ch Srinivas, Horticulture Officer B Sujata Kumari and others participated.
