Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala: To boost tourism and development, Kerala’s Tourism Minister P.A. Mohamed Riyas has sought a Rs 700-crore package from the Union Government. The Minister met the Union Minister for Tourism Rajendra Singh Shekhawat on Thursday in Delhi and discussed the state’s needs.

Speaking to media, Riyas said that Kerala’s wish list for tourism development included a Rs 100-crore scheme each for the modernisation of several tourist spots across the state, The Hindu reported.

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He also conveyed that the Kerala would invite Prime Minister Narendra Modi to  inaugurate a planned wellness conclave, adding that the state government will set a date that does not conflict with the impending local body elections code of conduct.

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A total of Rs 100 crore would be used to revamp Kovalam, Varkala, and Kappil beaches, and the rest for a National Institute of Water Sports at Beypore, and new cruise terminals in Kochi and Kollam, among others.

Many beaches including Kovalam faces challenges from rough seas, coastal erosion, causing garbage accumulation and the lack of authority attention due to poor funding for proper maintenance. The issues have significantly impacted the beaches’ appeal to attract the visitors, necessitating proper attention and repairs.