In a strategic move to strengthen its tourism portfolio, the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Authority has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Culinary Institute (ICI), Tirupati, aimed at positioning the state as a leading culinary tourism destination. The agreement was formalised in Amaravati in the presence of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, marking a significant step towards integrating food culture with tourism experiences.
The MoU was exchanged between representatives of the Indian Culinary Institute and Special Chief Secretary (Tourism) Ajay Jain, with key stakeholders including Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh, Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation officials, and industry representatives also in attendance.
Under the agreement, both entities will collaborate to promote Telugu cuisine and regional food traditions at national and international platforms, enhancing the state’s culinary identity and global visibility. The initiative will also focus on organising food festivals, tourism events, and promotional activities, aimed at attracting both domestic and international travellers.
A key component of the partnership is skill development in the culinary sector, with structured programmes designed to enhance employment opportunities and improve livelihoods for youth. By leveraging the expertise of the Indian Culinary Institute – an autonomous body under the Ministry of Tourism, the collaboration seeks to build a robust ecosystem for culinary excellence and innovation.
The initiative aligns with the state government’s broader vision to diversify tourism offerings by integrating culture, cuisine, and experiential travel. By showcasing Andhra Pradesh’s rich food heritage, the partnership is expected to create unique travel experiences and strengthen the overall tourism value chain.
Officials highlighted that the move will not only enhance tourist engagement but also contribute to economic growth, job creation, and increased visitor footfall. As global travellers increasingly seek authentic and immersive experiences, Andhra Pradesh’s focus on culinary tourism is expected to position it as a distinctive destination in India’s tourism landscape.
With this collaboration, Andhra Pradesh takes a decisive step towards transforming its rich culinary heritage into a powerful tourism driver, reinforcing its ambition to emerge as a prominent player in India’s evolving tourism ecosystem.
