Tourism – Andhra Pradesh Cabinet Clears Amaravati Eye and Major Growth Projects
Tourism – The Andhra Pradesh government has approved a series of significant projects aimed at strengthening tourism, transportation infrastructure, higher education, and public wellness initiatives. The decisions were taken during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu at the State Secretariat on Thursday.
Amaravati Eye Approved as New Tourist Attraction
Among the major announcements, the Cabinet gave its approval for the construction of the Amaravati Eye, a large observation wheel planned along the banks of the Krishna River in Amaravati. Inspired by globally recognized observation attractions, the project is expected to offer sweeping views of the capital city, the riverfront, and nearby scenic areas.
Officials believe the attraction could become one of Amaravati’s most recognizable landmarks and help increase tourist arrivals from both India and overseas. The project will be developed on nearly six acres of riverfront land under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) model. The Andhra Pradesh Infrastructure Corporation will invite competitive bids and requests for proposals from interested developers.
New Aviation Policy Targets Long-Term Expansion
The Cabinet also approved the Andhra Pradesh Aviation Policy 2026-31, which aims to accelerate growth in the aviation sector through improved infrastructure, stronger connectivity, and fresh investments.
The policy outlines plans for airport expansion, cargo network development, aerospace manufacturing, Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facilities, aviation training programs, and adoption of emerging technologies such as Advanced Air Mobility and Sustainable Aviation Fuel.
According to government estimates, annual passenger handling capacity is expected to rise from 6.2 million passengers to more than 30 million by 2035. Air cargo handling capacity is also projected to witness substantial growth, increasing from 6,240 metric tonnes to approximately 4.27 lakh metric tonnes during the same period.
Plans for Airports, Waterdromes and Investments
To improve regional accessibility, the government intends to establish nine additional airports and 10 waterdromes across Andhra Pradesh. The objective is to ensure that residents have access to an airport within a radius of about 150 kilometres.
The aviation roadmap also seeks to attract investments exceeding one billion dollars in aerospace and MRO industries. In addition, the State plans to provide aviation-related skill training to around 5,000 individuals every year, improve international air connectivity, and encourage environmentally sustainable aviation practices.
Investors participating in these sectors will be eligible for various incentives, including subsidies, reimbursement of stamp duty charges, viability gap funding support, and skill development assistance.
International University to Come Up in Sri City
In another key decision, the Cabinet approved an ordinance to amend the Andhra Pradesh Private Universities Act, 2016, paving the way for the establishment of Sri City International University in Tirupati district.
The institution will be developed by the Sri City Education Foundation under the Greenfield category. The proposed university will be built on a 60-acre campus with an estimated investment of around Rs 250 crore.
Authorities said the university is expected to focus on advanced education, research, innovation, and industry-linked skill development. It is also envisioned as a center for start-up activity, incubation programs, and entrepreneurship support, helping students access opportunities in global job markets.
As part of regulatory requirements, the university has agreed to allocate at least 35 percent of seats in non-medical courses under the government quota system.
Statewide Preparations for International Yoga Day
The Cabinet further approved a budget allocation of Rs 10 crore for International Yoga Day 2026 celebrations. Events will be organized across Andhra Pradesh between June 7 and June 21, with the government aiming to encourage wider public participation in yoga and wellness activities throughout the State.