Special CS Asks Collectors to Celebrate Bathukamma on Large Scale

Bathukamma celebrations in Telangana should be organised on a grand scale, with extensive publicity through photographs and videos, special chief secretary (CS) Vani Prasad of Tourism and Culture underlined on Tuesday during her video conference with collectors of various districts in the state.

During the online meeting from Hyderabad, she reviewed preparations for Bathukamma, tourism development projects, funding opportunities, and safety measures at major tourist destinations.

Vani Prasad suggested that collectors could organise Bathukamma song competitions to spread awareness about the possible effects of Super El Niño on rainfall, water availability, agriculture, and environment. Songs should highlight water conservation, environmental protection, and judicious use of water, with women’s groups and youth participating in the chorus.

The special CS pointed out that state government has transferred 56 tourism development projects to districts for implementation. She directed collectors to coordinate with area engineering departments and closely monitor the progress and quality of works.

Vani Prasad asked officials to assign the responsibility of preparing detailed project reports (DPRs) to engineering departments or suitable agencies within two weeks. The reports should cover land availability, infrastructure requirements, estimated costs, funding sources, and implementation timelines.

She said the government is exploring public-private partnership (PPP) options to complete partially constructed Haritha hotels and bring them into operation. She asked collectors to identify interested private investors and take the PPP process forward with support from public representatives.

The special chief secretary called for comprehensive tourism development plans identifying historical sites, spiritual centres, natural attractions, and heritage destinations in each district. Officials should explore funding through state and central government schemes, private investments, and other sources, including the Swadesh Darshan programme.

She wanted roads, drinking water, sanitation, accommodation, parking, and security prioritised at tourist destinations. Linking tourism with local arts, handicrafts, self-help group products, and traditional cuisine would generate employment, she said.

Among those who attended the programme in Nizamabad included collector Ila Tripathi, district revenue officer Geetha and district tourism development officer Pawan Kumar.