FICCI : Industry's Voice for Policy Change

The Kerala government will take all possible steps to promote entrepreneurship and is committed to provide all possible assistance to start-ups, Director of State Industries and Commerce Department S Harikishore has said.

Harikishore was speaking at a webinar organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) - Kerala State Council on Monday to promote entrepreneurship with the objective of increasing employment opportunities and achieving socio-economic growth in the post-COVID period.

He said more change is expected in the MSME sector as small and medium enterprises do not need a license for three years.

"There are about 1.5 lakh MSME units in Kerala and all assistance will be given to them. Currently, there are many schemes in place but many fail to utilise it. The government will take all possible steps to promote entrepreneurship and is committed to provide all possible assistance to start-ups. More changes are expected in the sector as small and medium enterprises do not need a licence for three years," he said during the webinar.

"There are eight schemes that provide financial assistance to enterprises. Subsidies were also available in the service sector," he said in a release.

FICCI Kerala State Council Co-Chair Deepak Aswani said that as a state that provides a lot of support and assistance to startups, Kerala has a lot of positive elements.

"Kerala has a lot of potential in the areas of food processing, textiles and agro industry. However, we need immediate steps to increase women entrepreneurship," he said.

Gurcharan Cheema, Senior Vice President and Regional Head, Amway India, Damodar Avanur, former president of the Kerala State Small Industries Association, John Kuriakos, Managing Director of Dentcare Dental Lab, Central MSME Assistant Director UC Lachitamol and others participated in the webinar

Outlook | Aug 31, 2021

Kerala got to promote entrepreneurship, assistance to start-ups

Tucker Daily News | Aug 31, 2021

Kerala acquired to advertise entrepreneurship, help to start-ups

Udayavani | Aug 31, 2021

Kerala got to promote entrepreneurship assistance to start-ups

Zee5 | Aug 31, 2021

Kerala got to promote entrepreneurship assistance to start-ups

The Hindu Business Line | Aug 09, 2021

Kerala mulls setting up of FMCG cluster with the support of FICCI

The Outreach | Aug 09, 2021

Kerala mulls setting up of FMCG cluster with the support of FICCI

Jonathan Desverney USA News | Aug 09, 2021

Kerala mulls setting up of FMCG cluster with the support of FICCI

Business Standard | Jul 16, 2021

Kerala govt to strengthen public-private partnership in healthcare in state

ANI News | Jul 16, 2021

Public-private partnership in healthcare will be strengthened in Kerala, says Health Minister Veena George

News Online Che | Jul 16, 2021

Kerala Govt to strengthen Public-Private Partnership in Healthcare in State

Lokmat English | Jul 16, 2021

Public-private partnership in healthcare will be strengthened in Kerala, says Health Minister Veena George

Latest LY | Jul 15, 2021

Healthcare: 'Public-private Partnership to Be Given a Boost'

Devdiscourse | Jul 15, 2021

Healthcare: 'Public-private partnership to be given a boost'

Yahoo News | Jul 15, 2021

Healthcare: 'Public-private partnership to be given a boost'

The Hindu | Jul 15, 2021

Kerala will be turned into a model destination for responsible investment: Industries Minister

The Hindu | Jul 15, 2021

Kerala posed to become favoured investment destination: FICCI

Orissa Diary | Jul 15, 2021

Public-Private Partnership will be strengthened in Healthcare sector: Veena George, Health & Family Welfare Minister, Govt of Kerala

Outlook | Jul 15, 2021

Healthcare: "Public-private partnership to be given a boost"

News Experts | Jul 14, 2021

Kerala to be among the favoured destinations of Investment in the Country: FICCI

Manorama | Jul 01, 2021

Kerala govt to come out with second relief package for MSMEs

Nyoooz | Jul 01, 2021

Kerala government to come out with second package for MSMEs

Outlook | Jul 01, 2021

Ker govt to come out with second package for MSMEs

Deccan Chronicle | Jul 01, 2021

Kerala government to come out with second package for MSMEs

Financial Express | Jul 01, 2021

Kerala govt to come out with second package for MSMEs

Kaumudi Online | Jun 28, 2021

Govt announces Rs 1416 crore Covid package for MSMEs

News Experts | Jun 03, 2021

FICCI organized webinar on Indigenous Oxygen Concentrate production

India City Blog | May 30, 2021

FICCI Kerala urges government to rescue sinking tourism industry amid Covid second wave

Hotelier India | May 29, 2021

Govt committed to revival of tourism, Minister assures stakeholders

Travel Trends Today | May 28, 2021

Kerala govt committed to revival of tourism, says Minister

Times of India | May 21, 2021

FICCI Kerala in favour of free movement for fully vaccinated domestic tourists

ET Hospitality World | May 19, 2021

Give vaccinated tourist free access to Kerala: FICCI Tourism Committee

News Experts | Feb 02, 2021

Union Budget 2021-22 to propel growth and employment

Commenting on the Union Budget 2021-22 Dr. M.I. Sahadulla, Co-Chair, FICCI Kerala State Council termed budget as “growth-oriented budget that lays a strong foundation for an Atmanirbhar Bharat. Government chose growth over fiscal consolidation is indeed heartening. with sharp focus on capital expenditure. It’s heartening the Finance Minister has taken concert steps to improve the Ease of Doing Business and encourage compliance.”

There has been a strong emphasis on infrastructure development be it social, physical, or financial infrastructure. Increased allocation to strengthen Health sector. Government has shown commitment to augment resources through several bold and strategic measures such as the disinvestment agenda plan to monetize the land banks Increased thrust on n attracting capital from abroad. The proposed simplification in REITS and InVITS alongside the announcement of InVITS by NHAI and PGCIL will help attract foreign investments in these areas. Setting up an Asset Reconstruction and Management Company and National Research Foundation are all welcome move.

Kerala has plenty to cheer about with Rs.65,000 Cr. allocation for development of National Highways which would a great boost to speed up the development on going pending National Highway development projects, Clearance of Phase II of Kochi metro and most important to include Kochi Fishing Harbour in the proposed 05 fishing harbour projects and the proposal to notify rules for removing the hardships of doble taxation for NRIs.

Tourism and hospitality sector which is under crises due to Covid has not received the necessary vital support in the budget.

The Hindu Business Line | Nov 19, 2020

FICCI webinar calls for transforming Kerala's healthcare sector

The Covid crisis has taught a lesson that the economy will collapse if healthcare is not protected: Dinesh Arora, Secretary, Department of Energy and Public Works, Kerala

Dinesh Arora, Secretary, Department of Energy and Public Works, Kerala, has called for more far-sighted measures in health sector in the State by strengthening private participation.

The health sector in the State is on the path of transformation and attention should be paid to primary healthcare by taking into account the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic in the society, he said.

Arora was delivering the keynote speech at a virtual conference organised by FICCI on ‘Transforming Healthcare Sector in Kerala’.

He pointed out that a single virus was able to paralyse the world economy, which is being hit harder than the recession. The Covid crisis has taught a lesson that the economy will collapse if healthcare is not protected. He also demanded that private hospitals be made part of the Ayushman Bharat project.

FICCI Health Services Committee Chairman Alok Roy delivered the opening remarks.

The inaugural meeting was followed by a business session on survival plans for healthcare industry to meet the economic impact, strategic alliance with larger hospitals in line with the Make in India and Digital India, post Covid opportunities in Medical Value Tourism.

News Experts | Nov 19, 2020

FICCI Seminar on "Transforming Health Care Sector"

Dr. Dinesh Arora, Secretary, Department of Energy and Public Works, Govt. of Kerala and former Deputy CEO, National Health Authority, said that the health sector in Kerala is on the path of transformation and Covid should be a lesson.

More attention should be paid to primary health care. A single virus was able to paralyze the entire world economy. The world economy itself is being hit harder than the recession. The Covid crisis is also a lesson that the economy will collapse if health is not protected. More far-sighted measures need to be taken in the health sector. Dinesh Arora also demanded that private hospitals be made part of the AYUSHMAN BHARAT project.

Technical systems should also be implemented. He said private participation in the health sector should be further strengthened. Dinesh Arora said. He was delivering the keynote speech at a virtual conference organized by FICCI on ‘Transforming Healthcare Sector in Kerala’. FICCI Health Services Committee Chairman and Medica Group of Hospitals Chairman, Dr. Alok Roy delivered the opening remarks. FICCI KESC Co-Chairman and KIMS Health Managing Director, Dr. M.I. Sahadullah, FICCI Secretary General, Dilip Chenoy, FICCI Kerala Co- Chair, Deepak L Aswani addressed the inaugural session.

It was followed by business session on Survival plans for Hospital Industry to meet the economic impact, strategic alliance with larger hospitals in line with the Make in India and digital India, Post Covid Opportunities in Medical Value Tourism. Eminent Speakers from Health Sector Bibu B. Punnooran, , Dr. Harish Pillai, G. Vijaraghavan, Harish Manian, Uday Dave, Dr. Sheriff Sahadulla, C. Padmakumar, Dr.Gautam Khanna, Thomas John, Balamurali, V. Sanjeev Kurup, Dr. Geethakrishnan, Dr. Abhik Moitra, Y. R. Vinod, addressed various technical sessions.

The Hindu Business Line | Nov 13, 2020

Kerala will resolve problems in real estate and construction sectors: chief secretary Vishwas Mehta

Vishwas Mehta, Chief Secretary, Kerala has assured the builders that the problems and grievances in the real estate and construction sectors in the State would be resolved soon.

He was inaugurating the virtual dialogue programme organized by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) Kerala State Council in association with CREDAI Kerala on the topic of effortless business in the real estate and construction sectors.

The good deeds done by the government to overcome adverse conditions often go unnoticed. It is easy to blame. The real estate sector, which is one of the most challenging sectors in the state, is also a major contributor to the economy. Without investment and plans, the State can no longer move forward, he said.

RERA's web portal will be operational in Kerala soon and more than 50 per cent of the work has been completed, said P H. Kurian,Chairman,RERA Kerala. Efforts to address the concerns related to building rules will be intensified, he said.

M.G. Rajamanikyam, Managing Director, KSIDC and Mir Muhammadali, Director, Kerala Coastal Zone Management Authority, have also addressed the gathering.

The Hindu Business Line | Nov 05, 2020

'India and Maldives should tap business potential in seafood trade'

Investment in fisheries sector will have both economic and social impacts

India and Maldives should explore investment and partnership synergies, especially for the promotion of seafood export-import trade, speakers at a consultative meeting organised by FICCI-Kerala said.

Fayyaz Ismail, Maldives Economic Development Minister, said the Kochi- Maldives ferry service is vital and critical enabler to accelerate export/import trade relations, and there is significant potential for investment in the fisheries sector that will have both economic and social impacts. The cordial relationship between the two countries has strong potential for fruitful, productive and strong business relations, he added.

Sunjay Sudhir, Indian High Commissioner, Maldives, said the regular cargo ferry services significantly helped to enhance export-import trade between two countries. Seafood exporters from India should tap the immense potential of raw seafood available at Maldives and reprocess the same in India with value addition.

M Beena, Chairperson, Cochin Port Trust, said Kochi, with significant capabilities in seafood processing, could become the gateway for seafood imports from Maldives and re-export the same to European markets with reduced transhipment time.

P Anil Kumar, Jt. Director (Mktg), Marine Products Export Development Authority, highlighted the strength of Maldives in fisheries and said it had exported $24000 million worth seafood in 2019-20. Tuna is the major component of seafood exports from Maldives. India exports Tuna worth $56 million and major exporters are from Kerala. Hence, there is strong potential for close collaboration, joint venture between seafood exporters and importers from both the countries.

Given the potential of canned processed Maldivian seafood in the Indian markets, Alex Ninan, president, Seafood Exporters Association of India-Kerala region, called for closer cooperation between seafood exporters in both the countries. Indian seafood exporters could also become strong customers for Maldivian tourism sector with supply of canned processed seafood and ready-to-cook products.

Prominent seafood exporters from Maldives and India participated in the deliberations.

Republic World | Sep 23, 2020

Cargo ship from Maldives makes maiden call at Kochi Port

A day after India and Maldives jointly launched a Cargo Ferry Service between the two nations, a cargo ship M V MCP Linz made its maiden call here on Tuesday.

The inaugural India-Maldives service was accorded a formal reception at Cochin Port, a Port Trust spokesman said.

In a brief felicitation ceremony, Port Trust Chairman M Beenaexchanged a plaque with the Captain of the vessel to commemorate the maiden call.

PK Mohammed Yousaf, Commissioner of Customs, Cochin was the guest of honour at the function.

The event was attended by Deepak L Aswani, FICCI state co-chair Krishna Kumar, president, Cochin Steamer Agents Association, Alan Jose, president, Cochin Customs Brokers Association, representatives of vessel agents and other dignitaries, he said.

The vessel will sail for the Maldives after loading containers and breakbulk cargo from Cochin.

M V MCP Linz, operated by the Shipping Corporation of India, has a capacity to carry 3,000 TEUs and 3000 MT dry bulk/break-bulk.

The service will connect TuticorinCochinMaldives ports once in a fortnight.

Minister of State for Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Republic of Maldives Aishath Nahula had jointly launched the Cargo Ferry Service from India to the Maldives through video conferencing on Monday.

This brings to fruition the commitment made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the Maldives in June 2019 to start a direct shipping service between Maldives and India, connecting the ports of Tuticorin and Cochin, a Port Trust statement said.

It said the direct India-Maldives services offers tremendous opportunities to the members of the EXIM trade in Cochin/India to tap the potential of the Maldives market.

Marine products, construction material, tiles and ceramics, food grains, pulses, flour, vegetables, edible oil, meat products etc are some of the areas of huge potential for Indian exporters, the statement said.

Outlook | Sep 22, 2020

Cargo ship from Maldives makes maiden call at Kochi Port

A day after India and Maldives jointly launched a Cargo Ferry Service between the two nations, a cargo ship M V MCP Linz made its maiden call here on Tuesday. The inaugural India-Maldives service was accorded a formal reception at Cochin Port, a Port Trust spokesman said. In a brief felicitation ceremony, Port Trust Chairman M Beena exchanged a plaque with the Captain of the vessel to commemorate the maiden call. P K Mohammed Yousaf, Commissioner of Customs, Cochin was the guest of honour at the function. The event was attended by Deepak L Aswani, FICCI state co-chair Krishna Kumar, president, Cochin Steamer Agents Association, Alan Jose, president, Cochin Customs Brokers Association, representatives of vessel agents and other dignitaries, he said. The vessel will sail for Maldives after loading containers and break bulk cargo from Cochin. M V MCP Linz, operated by the Shipping Corporation of India, has a capacity to carry 3,000 TEUs and 3000 MT dry bulk/break-bulk. The service will connect Tuticorin Cochin Maldives ports once in a fortnight. Minister of State for Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya and Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Republic of Maldives Aishath Nahula had jointly launched the Cargo Ferry Service from India to Maldives through video conferencing on Monday. This brings to fruition the commitment made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Maldives in June 2019 to start a direct shipping service between Maldives and India, connecting the ports of Tuticorin and Cochin, a Port Trust statement said. It said the direct India-Maldives services offers tremendous opportunities to the members of the EXIM trade in Cochin/India to tap the potential of the Maldives market. Marine products, construction material, tiles and ceramics, food grains, pulses, flour, vegetables, edible oil, meat products etc are some of the areas of huge potential for Indian exporters, the statement said.

Daiji World | Sep 21, 2020

Direct cargo ferry service between India and Maldives launched

In a landmark development, a direct cargo ferry service between India and Maldives commenced on Monday. This is the first time that a direct cargo shipping line is connecting the two neighbouring countries.

The ferry service, which was first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in June 2019 during his visit to Maldives, was launched in an e-flag off ceremony hosted jointly by Minister of State (independent charge) for Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya and Aishath Nahula, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Maldives .

Commencement of a cargo ferry service between India and Maldives was announced by the External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar during his virtual meeting with the Foreign Minister of Maldives, Abdulla Shahid, on August 13.

The ferry service will run twice a month. It will be operated by the Shipping Corporation of India on a vessel with a capacity of 380 TEUs.

The ferry will herald direct connectivity for movement of cargo between India and Maldives, giving a boost to bilateral trade.

Despite geographical proximity, India is currently only the 4th largest trade partner of Maldives. Maldives imports more from the UAE, China and Singapore, implying that bilateral trade with India is not commensurate with it's potential.

India's bilateral trade has hovered at around $280 million annually for some years now and stood at $286.85 million in 2019.

Direct ferry will reduce transportation cost, provide a timely, short and cost-effective means of transportation for goods from India to Maldives and thereby incentivise more trade between the two countries.

The ferry has cold storage facility, which will also allow more exports from Maldives of tuna fish and other marine food items which are specialties of Maldives.

In March-April this year, FICCI's Kerala state council conducted a study on the viability of a ferry service between India and Maldives. The study found that for 27 principal import items of Maldives, India's share of imports is well below their potential.

Currently, maximum imports to Male originate from Dubai, China, Singapore and Colombo, while Dubai, Singapore and Colombo are mostly transhipment ports. A direct and reliable service will provide an alternate and cost effective way of transportation of goods from India to Maldives.

Since Maldives is a 100 per cent import dependent country, improved connectivity between India and Maldives will help boost bilateral trade and help economic acitivity in Maldives, already reeling under the disruption brought about by Covid-19.

The Covid-19 crisis has, drawn the attention of the world towards resilient supply chains. In May-June this year, while Maldivian imports have fallen by 50 per cent, India has become the second largest exporter to Maldives. India has, therefore, proven that it can provide supply side security to the Maldives during such uncertain times.

A number of bilateral projects are in the pipeline, owing to which export of construction material and other commodities from India to Maldives is bound to rise in the coming months. This includes the Greater Male Connectivity Project (under $400 million LOC and $100 million grant), and projects under the $800 million Line of Credit.

There is great enthusiasm on both the sides for the launch of this service. FICCI organised three virtual roadshows in Tuticorin, Kochi and Mumbai to publicise this service. The response from exporters has been positive.

During its maiden journey, the ferry will make a stop at Kulhudhuffushi port in North Maldives before it reaches Male on September 29.

The Maldives government is making concerted efforts to revitalise the economy of Northern Maldives. It is understood that in order to give financial incentives, the Maldives Majlis has approved 50 per cent reduction in custom duties for import items cleared at the Kulhudhuffushi port. India has also been assisting the Maldives government in developing its Northern region through a number of bilateral projects/ initiatives.

This service will improve regional connectivity. The government has been working to promote a number of initiatives and projects in order to increase regional connectivity in the Indian Ocean region.

Techno Codex | Sep 21, 2020

India launches first ever Cargo Ferry with Maldives: Milestone in Indian Ocean connectivity initiatives

The first ever Cargo Ferry Service between India and the Maldives was jointly launched on Monday opening a new chapter in connectivity initiatives in the Indian Ocean Region.

Mansukh L. Mandaviya, Minister of State for Shipping (Independent Charge) and Aishath Nahula, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation of the Maldives in a virtual ceremony.

The ceremony was also attended by representatives from Tuticorin and Cochin ports, as well as officials from the Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) and the Foreign Ministry of Maldives.

The Cargo Ferry Vessel MCP Linz operated by the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI) will connect Tuticorin and Cochin ports in India with Kulhudhuhfushi and Male ports in the Maldives.

The vessel is expected to arrive in Kulhudhuhfushi on September 26 and Male on September 28. The MCP Linz is a combination vessel which can carry 380 TEUs and 3000 MT on bulk cargo, and will have a turnaround time of 10-12 days for its voyages, officials said.

This vessel provides direct cargo connectivity between India and the Maldives on a predictable and affordable basis for the first time, and will lower costs and times for traders in both countries.

In his address to the People’s Majlis during his State Visit to the Maldives in June 2019, PM Narendra Modi announced India’s commitment to start a ferry service connecting India and the Maldives.

An MoU was signed between the Ministry of Shipping in India and the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, Maldives, on the sidelines of the State Visit. A team from SCI had visited Maldives in July 2019 to undertake preliminary studies.

Thereafter, FICCI undertook a feasibility study on a cargo ferry service between India and the Maldives, earlier this year. The decision to commence the Cargo Ferry Service between the two nations was announced during a virtual meeting between Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid on August 13. To begin with, India will subsidise the service at approximately $ three million.

Nourished by close historical and cultural ties, Indians and Maldivians have traded for centuries. Yet, India is only the fourth largest trading partner of the Maldives today. The Cargo Ferry Service is visioned as a key instrument to upgrade the trade partnership and unfetter logistics on both sides.

Alongside the expansion of the Hanimaadhoo Airport (through an Indian Line of Credit), the Cargo Ferry Service connectivity to the northern port of Kulhudhuhfushi will underpin the economic development of northern Maldives and facilitate investments in tourism and other engines of prosperity. Beside the expansion of markets for MSMEs in India, the Cargo Ferry service will provide an opportunity to Maldivian exporters of tuna and other marine products to scope the vast Indian market and springboardto Europe through Cochin and Tuticorin ports. For instance, Cochin Port has weekly connectivity to Europe through a 6500 TEU vessel.

The Cargo Ferry Service is another commitment delivered by India to connect Indian and Maldivian markets, unlock the trade and investment potential between the two nations, and, strengthen people-to-people contacts for mutual prosperity, officials pointed out.

The New Indian Express | Aug 27, 2020

India's first international women's trade centre to come up in Kerala

Kerala will set up India's first international women's trade centre (WTC), in consonance with the United Nations sustainable development goals (SDGs), at Angamaly.

"This initiative aims to accelerate women entrepreneurship and secure gender parity while providing women with a safe place away from home to start new businesses, set up or expand, and get their products marketed globally," said Biju Prabhakar, IAS, Secretary, Department of Social Justice, Women & Child Development.

He was making the keynote address at the webinar on ‘Scaling up Opportunities for MSME Women Entrepreneurs in Kerala’ organized by FICCI Kerala State Council.

Besides serving as a facilitator to launch their own ventures, WTC will enable women entrepreneurs to come forward and participate in international trade, enjoy greater economic benefits and enhance their competitiveness to tap market opportunities. REACH or Resource Enhancement Academy for Career Heights is also aimed at empowering women with the required life-skills to ensure success in life.

N S K Umesh, IAS, executive director-invest cell, KSIDC, said Kerala has already come across a crisis similar to the Covid19 pandemic in the past. "We have come out successfully of such crisis and Make in Kerala is what is going to matter. NRKs are also coming back in huge numbers. We have to come out with tangible projects,” he said.

We Mission Kerala of KSIDC aims at scaling up the women-led endeavours through comprehensive support measures. Ecommerce enabling local MSMEs to go global in the Digital Era, www.graameen.in a venture of Eram Group was the Supporting Partner for the event.

Travel Trends Today | Jul 01, 2020

Kerala promotes safe and Hygienic Tourism

Rani George, Tourism Secretary, Government of Kerala said that the state government is working to revive the tourism sector and has identified ayurveda, adventure and houseboats as focus areas.

Addressing an interactive session organized by FICCI via virtual conference, George said, “SOPs for these areas are already prepared and will soon be circulated to the industry for implementation.”

She said, “Kerala government has been proactive in preventing COVID-19 in the state. Health of people is a priority for us. We will be focusing on promoting Kerala as a safe and hygienic destination for prospective tourists.”

Jyotsna Suri, Past President, FICCI; Chairperson, FICCI Tourism Committee and CMD, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, while highlighting the measures needed for survival and revival, said, “Tourism will be the torch bearer of economic revival. We have the demand and the supply in India and the need is to focus on Domestic Tourism. Kerala has been the ultimate travel destination. Now more than ever, people understand the value of wellness and this is what Kerala offers.”

Dipak Deva, Co-Chairman, FICCI Tourism Committee & Managing Director, Sita, TCI & Distant Frontiers said, “It is a good opportunity for Kerala to position itself for value Tourism. Kerala is known for its beautiful smaller hotels. If smaller groups travel and book the entire property, there would be a higher level of safety and hygiene for the group. This could be weaved into the communication strategy.”

Baby Mathew, President, Kerala Travel Mart Society and Managing Director, Somatheeram Group said, “We are planning to hold a virtual Kerala Travel Mart in September. We will concentrate on regional tourism and focus on tourists within the state, then other states and eventually international tourists. For the support of the industry, we have submitted recommendations for relief measures, and we request the government to kindly consider them.”

Riyaz UC, Convenor, FICCI KESC Tourism Committee and Managing Director, Spiceland Holidays and Entertainments said, “The Kerala government has always helped the tourism sector and the industry now needs the support of the government for its revival.”

Dilip Chenoy, Secretary General, FICCI said, “Government of Kerala has emerged as a role model state in managing COVID-19 pandemic. Kerala has always led by example in Tourism and hospitality. We believe that under your leadership, Tourism will once again revive and thrive in the State very soon.”

Travel Trade Journal | Jul 01, 2020

Kerala to be promoted as a safe and hygienic tourist destination

Rani George, Tourism Secretary, Government of Kerala yesterday said that the state government is working to revive the tourism sector and has identified ayurveda, adventure and houseboats as focus areas.

Dr Jyotsna Suri, Past President, FICCI, Chairperson, FICCI Tourism Committee and CMD, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, while highlighting the measures needed for survival and revival, said, “Tourism will be the torch bearer of economic revival. We have the demand and the supply in India and the need is to focus on Domestic Tourism. Kerala has been the ultimate travel destination. Now more than ever, people understand the value of wellness and this is what Kerala offers.”

The session was moderated by Ashish Kumar, Co-Chair, FICCI Travel Technology Committee & Managing Partner, Agnitio Consulting and was attended by key stakeholders from travel and tourism industry.

The Hindu Business Line | Jul 01, 2020

Kerala to be promoted as safe and hygienic tourist destination

Focus should be on domestic tourism, say players

“We will be focussing on promoting Kerala as a safe and hygienic destination for prospective tourists”, said Rani George, Tourism Secretary, on Wednesday.

“The government has been proactive in preventing Covid in the State, and the health of people is a priority for us,” she said in a video conference organised by the FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry) National Tourism Committee, key industry players and tourism stakeholders to discuss the support needed for the survival of the industry and steps to open tourism in the State.

She pointed out that ayurveda, health and wellness, and adventure tourism are the key focus areas. The standard operating procedures (SOPs) for these areas have already been prepared and will soon be circulated for implementation. The Tourism Department will soon come out with more financial packages and relieves as per the request from industry stakeholders.

‘Torchbearer of revival’

Jyotsna Suri, former president of FICCI, Chairperson of FICCI Tourism Committee and CMD of The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, while highlighting the measures needed for survival and revival of the industry, said that tourism would be the torchbearer of economic revival. “We have the demand and supply in India, and the need is to focus on domestic tourism. Kerala has been the ultimate travel destination.”

Dipak Deva, Co-Chairman, FICCI Tourism Committee, and Managing Director, Sita, TCI & Distant Frontiers, said it is a good opportunity for Kerala to position itself for value tourism as the State is known for its beautiful smaller hotels.

Baby Mathew, president, Kerala Travel Mart Society, and Managing Director, Somatheeram Group, said: “We are planning to hold a virtual Kerala Travel Mart in September with a focus on regional tourism and tourists within the State, then other States and eventually international tourists.

Riyaz UC, Convenor, FICCI KESC Tourism Committee, and Dilip Chenoy, Secretary General, FICCI, also spoke.

Orissa Diary | Jun 30, 2020

Ayurveda, Adventure and Houseboats are key areas of tourism in Kerala

Addressing an interactive session organized by FICCI via virtual conference, Ms George said, “SOPs for these areas are already prepared and will soon be circulated to the industry for implementation.”

Dr Jyotsna Suri, Past President, FICCI; Chairperson, FICCI Tourism Committee and CMD, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, while highlighting the measures needed for survival and revival, said, “Tourism will be the torch bearer of economic revival. We have the demand and the supply in India and the need is to focus on Domestic Tourism. Kerala has been the ultimate travel destination. Now more than ever, people understand the value of wellness and this is what Kerala offers.”

Mr Dipak Deva, Co-Chairman, FICCI Tourism Committee & Managing Director, Sita, TCI & Distant Frontiers said, “It is a good opportunity for Kerala to position itself for value Tourism. Kerala is known for its beautiful smaller hotels. If smaller groups travel and book the entire property, there would be a higher level of safety and hygiene for the group. This could be weaved into the communication strategy.”

Mr Baby Mathew, President, Kerala Travel Mart Society and Managing Director, Somatheeram Group said, “We are planning to hold a virtual Kerala Travel Mart in September. We will concentrate on regional tourism and focus on tourists within the state, then other states and eventually international tourists. For the support of the industry, we have submitted recommendations for relief measures, and we request the government to kindly consider them.”

Mr Riyaz UC, Convenor, FICCI KESC Tourism Committee and Managing Director, Spiceland Holidays and Entertainments said, “The Kerala government has always helped the tourism sector and the industry now needs the support of the government for its revival.”

Mr Dilip Chenoy, Secretary General, FICCI said, “Government of Kerala has emerged as a role model state in managing COVID-19 pandemic. Kerala has always led by example in Tourism and hospitality. We believe that under your leadership, Tourism will once again revive and thrive in the State very soon.”

The session was moderated by Mr Ashish Kumar, Co-Chair, FICCI Travel Technology Committee & Managing Partner, Agnitio Consulting and was attended by key stakeholders from travel and tourism industry.

Nyoooz | Jun 30, 2020

Ayurveda Adventure and Houseboats are key areas of tourism in Kerala

Ms Rani George, Tourism Secretary, Government of Kerala yesterday said that the state government is working to revive the tourism sector and has identified ayurveda, adventure and houseboats as focus areas. We have the demand and the supply in India and the need is to focus on Domestic Tourism. Now more than ever, people understand the value of wellness and this is what Kerala offers. Mr Dipak Deva, Co-Chairman, FICCI Tourism Committee & Managing Director, Sita, TCI & Distant Frontiers said, "It is a good opportunity for Kerala to position itself for value Tourism. This could be weaved into the communication strategy." Mr Baby Mathew, President, Kerala Travel Mart Society and Managing Director, Somatheeram Group said, "We are planning to hold a virtual Kerala Travel Mart in September. We will concentrate on regional tourism and focus on tourists within the state, then other states and eventually international tourists."

India Education Diary | May 22, 2020

Kerala keen to make itself the most preferred investment destination: Chief Minister

Mr Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister of Kerala today said that the state government is making all efforts to ensure Kerala becomes the most preferred investment destination. He also invited industry to come forward as the state government is willing to provide all necessary support.

Addressing the webinar on “Rebuilding and Reinvigorating Kerala’s Economy Post COVID-19”, organized by FICCI, Mr Vijayan said, “We are focusing on agriculture, MSMEs, tourism and IT sector. Let us work together and we will give all possible help. Together we can bring Kerala back and will make it the most preferred investment destination.”

Highlighting the steps taken by the government to attract investments, Mr Vijayan said, “We are committed further to easing the norms for industrial licensing. All licenses will be issued in 7 working days. We have also setup an Investment Promotion Taskforce including both national and international experts. Kerala has a distinct advantage in having an educated skilled labour force and this is advantageous for knowledge based industrial sectors.”

Mr Vijayan highlighted that the state has undertaken steps to ease the industrial licensing system including end-to-end online system, automated approvals based on self-certifications, and introduction of deemed approvals. The government has also rationalized existing rules and introduced new technologies to support the system.

“Kerala is keen to make itself an investment destination and we will make changes to attract investments. Our ports, airports, and other infrastructure will help us in a big way. We request investors to come forward and strengthen our efforts,” added Mr Vijayan.

Dr Sangita Reddy, President, FICCI in her welcome remarks congratulated Hon’ble Chief Minister and Government of Kerala for the excellent handling of COVID 19 in the state which is highly appreciated all over the country and world at large. She also mentioned that we need to ideate, reinvent, and find ways to revive the economy. “Strength of Kerala lies in its people, human resources, agriculture, IT sector, and FICCI would extend all support to work with the state government,” said Dr Reddy.

The webinar was addressed by industry leaders from various sectors including Dr Jyotsna Suri, Past President, FICCI and CMD, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group; Dr Vidya Yeravdekar, Chairperson-FICCI Higher Education Committee & Pro-Chancellor, Symbiosis International University; Dr Harish Pillai, Chair- FICCI Medical Value Travel Committee; Member- FICCI Health Services Committee & CEO-Aster India, Mr Sanjog Gupta, Chairman, FICCI Sports Committee & Sports Product Head, Star India and Mr Harsh Goenka, Chairman, RPG Enterprises.

Other eminent speakers who highlighted the sectoral potential included Mr Sudhakar Gande, Co-Chair, FICCI Defence and Aerospace Committee & Non-Executive Director, AXISCADES Engineering Technologies Ltd. and CEO, Jupiter Capital Private Limited, Dr Subba Rao Pavuluri, Co-Chair, FICCI Space Committee & CMD, Ananth Technologies Ltd, Mr Bijay Sahoo, Past Chair, FICCI Skills Committee & President HR, Reliance Industries Ltd, Mr Ajay Das, AVP- Business Development, Adani Synergy Ltd and Mr Deepak L Aswani, Co-Chair FICCI Kerala State Council & Managing Partner, Lachmandas & Sons.

Dr K Ellangovan, Principal Secretary Industries & Commerce, Government of Kerala also apprised the participants of various steps being taken by the State Government to promote investments in Kerala during the webinar.

Dr M.I. Sahadulla, Co-Chair, FICCI Kerala State Council proposed the Vote of Thanks on behalf of FICCI.

India Today | May 21, 2020

CM Pinarayi Vijayan seeks FICCI support to build Brand Kerala post-Covid-19

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has sought support of the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FICCI) to build Brand Kerala for investment and business in post-Covid-19 time.

During his video conference with FICCI leaders, CM Vijayan said Kerala has become a safe destination for investments. The state government has taken pro-active steps to transform the state as a manufacturing hub for focused sectors, he said.

FICCI President Sangita Reddy and Secretary General Dilip Chenoy assured the chief minister all support and cooperation for developing the state as a friendly and lucrative destination of investors.

The FICCI officials suggested some reform measures that the Kerala government should take to attract investors to the state. They said Kerala has great potential in tourism, healthcare, Ayurveda, information technology, higher education, agriculture and aerospace sectors.

They said demand for quality healthcare professionals is certain to increase particularly in the US and Europe in post-coronavirus pandemic time. Kerala could upgrade its healthcare training infrastructure for the next level, they suggested the chief minister.

The FICCI leaders advised CM Vijayan to encourage nursing professionals to learn more foreign languages and improve their proficiency. Vijayan, in turn, assured to take steps in this direction.

In his presentation, Vijayan explained various steps taken by the government to develop micro, small and medium enterprises in the state since 2016.

He said the procedures of clearance for industrial projects have been simplified. All clearance are now done in seven working days since submission of project details online.

"Kerala remained as a consumer state for long. Now we are trying to make it manufacturing and investor friendly state. In this context, the state needs your support and cooperation," CM Vijayan told the FICCI gathering.

FICCI leaders congratulated Kerala for taking effective steps in checking Covid-19 outbreak and offering great support for migrant workers during lock down.

Minister for Industries EP Jayarajan and principal secretary of industries K Elangaovan also participated in the videoconference with the chief minister. Among others who attended the video-conference included former FICCI President Jyotsana Suri, SYMBIOSIS pro-vice chancellor Vidya Yeravdekar, Sanjay Gupta and Harish Pillai.

The Hindu Business Line | May 03, 2020

Call to involve private sector in fight against Covid

“Increased budgetary allocation for the health sector is the need of the hour in the Covid scenario, as currently, the country is spending only 1.28 per cent GDP on the health sector. This needs to be drastically improved,” said Indu Bushan, Chief Executive Officer, Ayushman Bharat - PMJAY and National Health Authority.

He was delivering the keynote address at a webinar organised by FICCI Kerala State Council on the ‘impacts of Covid-19 on the private health sector’.

He said private health sector needs to be allotted more roles in the fight against Covid-19. Private hospitals should take advantage of opportunities through innovative methods such as telemedicine and virtual consultation. The way Kerala has fought against containing the virus could serve as a case study in the future, he added.

The Ayush sector can play an important role in augmenting the immunity of persons recovering from Covid and in enhancing the immunity of those vulnerable, said Sharmila Mary Joseph, secretary, Ayush.

The webinar called for the Central and State governments to make the most of the potential of the private health sector in the fight against Covid-19, as the private health sector has all along played a key role in providing quality health system to the people of Kerala.

M.I. Sahadulla, Co-Chairman, FICCI Kerala State Council, pointed out that the private health care sector and particularly hospitals are going through the worst crisis in terms of financial liquidity, resource crunch and it would take many months for the industry to be back on track and sought the support of government for the various representations submitted highlighting the plight of the industry.

The Hindu Business Line | May 03, 2020

Call to involve private sector in fight against Covid

He was delivering the keynote address at a webinar organised by FICCI Kerala State Council on the ‘impacts of Covid-19 on the private health sector’.

The Ayush sector can play an important role in augmenting the immunity of persons recovering from Covid and in enhancing the immunity of those vulnerable, said Sharmila Mary Joseph, secretary, Ayush.

Financial Express | Apr 25, 2020

More relief for realty sector? Here’s what union housing and urban affairs secretary has to say

The real estate sector can expect more relief and revival measures in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, Union housing and urban affairs secretary Durga Shankar Mishra said on Friday. He was delivering the keynote address at a webinar, organised by the Kerala state council of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) to discuss the issues confronting the real estate, housing and construction sector following the virus outbreak.

Mishra said steps would be taken to speedily implement the RBI’s packages and credit facilities. He urged the real estate community to resume construction as soon as possible utilising the benefits of the packages announced by the Centre and the RBI. He assured that the government would provide the necessary support to address all pending issues arising out of Covid-19 to bring back growth.

PH Kurian, chairman of RERA, Kerala, announced that the concessions would be announced for projects registered with the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA). The RERA would consider allotting more time to pay for projects currently under construction without penalty. Kurian said all the builders in Kerala should register their projects with the RERA.

The state government has already initiated steps to ensure the availability of construction materials and labour for the construction sector, special secretary LSGD K Biju said. The government estimates that 30% of workers from other states will remain in Kerala even after the lockdown. Precautions have been taken to prevent supply chain disruption as there is a special situation in Kerala where many construction equipment need to be sourced from other states.

The Hindu Business Line | Apr 19, 2020

Cochin Port Trust plans concession for Exim trade

The Cochin Port Trust will extend all possible support to Exim trade and Exim community, which has been hit severely by the lockdown, said M Beena, the port Chairman.

The port is considering concessions, including ground cargo rent/container rent, CFS charges, godown rental waiver/reduction, etc. The decision on the concessions will be taken in consultation with the Shipping Ministry.

She was speaking at a webinar organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) on the problems being faced by the export-import sector in Kerala and the road ahead after the lockdown period.

The Customs Commissioner PK Mohammed Yousuf said that the Customs House would be vigilant to get refunds and services for exporters expeditiously as possible. The interest waiver for delayed Customs duty remittance is also under consideration.

KM Harilal, Joint Director General of Foreign Trade, assured that all concessions announced by the Commerce Ministry will be made available to the exporters without delay.

Praveen Thomas Joseph, CEO, DP World, said they are considering the waiver of ground rent and container detention charges at the Vallarpadam Container Terminal. He urged exporters and importers and the Exim community to cooperate in speeding up the delivery of containers from the terminal.

Antony Thomas Kottaram, Chairman of the FICCI KESC Taxation Committee, was the moderator of the Session and also appraised the participants about the representations submitted by FICCI at the national level and with State government in this regard.

Financial Express | Apr 17, 2020

Coronavirus lockdown in Kerala: State eases curbs for cashew, coir, handloom, beedi

Cashew processing, coir spinning, handloom and beedi industries will be excluded from lockdown curbs in Kerala after April 20. The state cabinet, which met on Thursday, has recommended lockdown waiver for these segments.

However, these relaxations,in sectors with employment implications, would be in strict adherence to the social distancing norms prescribed to check the Covid-19 pandemic, sources in the CMO told FE.

FICCI-Kerala region had asked the state government to ease the lockdown imposed on account of Covid-19 on select industrial segments such as seafood, coir, cashew, timber & wood industry, rice, spices, food processing and construction, since this would cause employment stagnation.

Instead of going by the Centre’s criteria for designating districts as Covid-19 hotspots, the state government would urge the Centre to redesignate districts as red, orange and green zones. This would mean that the current curbs can be lifted in phases, as and when the situation changes.

Kerala has the country’s highest Covid-19 recovery rate with218 out of the 387 coronavirus positive cases recovering . The state has also decided to increase the number and extent of testing, chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan told mediapersons.

Kottayam and Idukki districts would get complete waiver as they are in green zone, as per the new recommendations. Kasargod, Kannur, Malappuram and Kozhikode would be in red zone and the rest, including Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi would be in orange zone.

The Hindu Business Line | Apr 09, 2020

Kerala trade bodies request partial lifting of lockdown

FICCI-Kerala region has urged the government to partially lift the lockdown, imposed on account of Covid-19, on selected industries and segments such as seafood, coir, cashew, timber and wood industry, rice, spices, food processing and construction, among others.

With the termination of services in these segments, there will be a serious stagnation in the employment sector. The government should make necessary arrangements to retain the migrant labourers employed in the MSME segments.

FICCI submits recommendations

FICCI pointed out that the matchbox industry is in serious trouble with prolonged lockdown and the government should give necessary permission to start operations. The industry body also requested extending the moratorium on loan repayment from the current three months to one year. Many companies are likely to face difficulties in getting outstanding dues from the market because of the lockdown.

Deepak L Aswani, state co-chairman, said that FICCI has submitted comprehensive recommendations to resolve the issues faced by the industrial and business community.

Exemptions sought

Sunny L Malayil, president, Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, sought exemption from paying ESI, PF, bonus, on salaries, during the lockdown period. The Government should consider paying the PF contribution for six months, without the limitation of ₹15,000 ceiling and extend the benefit for units employing up to 200 persons. There should be an extension on GST return filing dates for MSME and late filing penalty should be on hold till March 2021.

The chamber also urged permitting payment of GST arrears in instalments along with the current payment with the holiday period of six months without cancelling the GST registration, he said.

The Times of India | Nov 29, 2019

'IORA can emulate state’s initiatives'

Planning experts and scientists should consider the interests of small and marginal fishermen, fish farmers and women workers while planning and implementing blue economy projects in the country, said fisheries minister J Mercykutty Amma.

Speaking after inaugurating Aquabe 2019, the three-day international conference on blue economy and aquatic resources, Mercykutty Amma said that this marginalized section of fisheries sector would be the centre of most of the projects. “Though marine fish catches are decreasing day by day globally, fish production in Kerala has shown a perceptible improvement to reach a figure of 6.09 lakh tonnes during the year 2018-19. This was because of the tight implementation of trawling ban and expansion of scientific aquaculture in the state,” she said.

Alongside the main conference, second Somalia and Yemen Development Programme (SDPY 2) was organized by the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), government of India and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI). “IORA countries can emulate the initiatives that Kerala government have undertaken for the conservation and sustainable development of marine fish resources,” the minister said.

The state government have been able to remedy the shortage of fish resources on the coast of Kerala. This has been accomplished by mandating the registration and licensing of fishing boats, bans on fishing, restrictions on the size of the fishing net, retractions on the number of fishing vessels and engine capacity, and the increase in trolling moratorium.

Kerala is making efforts to eradicate plastic from the sea under the IORA mission. The project was implemented with the support of fishermen community at Shaktikulangara harbour, Kollam. The fishermen collected 20,000 tonnes of plastic from the sea. It is being used for road tarring. The project was hailed by the Centre and the United Nations Environment Programme.

Around 400 stakeholders representing 28 countries, including researchers and policy makers, are attending the three-day conference, which ends on Saturday.

The Hindu Business Line | Nov 28, 2019

Kerala has halted decline in fish landings: Minister

Kerala could halt the decline in marine fish landings because of the measures adopted for the conservation and sustainable development of fish resources, Fisheries Minister J Mercikutty Amma has said.

The marine fish landings, which was 4.84 lakh tonnes in 2016-17, have shown a perceptible improvement to reach a figure of 6.09 lakh tonnes in 2018-19 following the initiatives taken in consultation with scientific communities.

Global meet

The growth assumes significance at a time when marine catches globally are decreasing, the Minister said and attributed the increase of marine fishery wealth to tight implementation of trawling ban, registration and licensing of fishing vessels, ban on juvenile fishing, regulation of mesh size fishing gears etc.

The Minister was speaking at the inaugural function of the international conference on blue economy – Aquabe 2019 – organised by Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies here.

At a different function, the Minister pointed out that the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) member countries can emulate the initiatives of the Kerala government to sustain the marine fishery resources in their countries. She was inaugurating the second Somalia and Yemen Development Programme (SDPY2) organised by IORA, the Union government and Ficci in the same venue.

Later on the sidelines, the Minister said the Kerala government has taken up with the Union Commerce Ministry the US decision to continue with the ban on wild caught shrimps because of non fixation of Turtle Exclusive Devices.

There is no point in continuing with the ban on our coast, as Kerala is one of the three coastal States that have already implemented the legislation to install TED on fishing trawlers, she said in reply to a query.

The Minister also urged planning experts and scientists to consider small and marginal fishermen, fish farmers and women fish workers while planning and implementing blue economy projects in the country. This marginalised section of the fisheries sector would be the centre of blue economy projects.

The sustainable development goals of blue economy should keep the aim of ending poverty in all forms and at everywhere and food and nutritional security to the masses by aqua sources would be the preference.

In the keynote address, Nomvuyo Nokwe, Secretary General of Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), said that the concept of blue economy has been proposed to initiate appropriate programmes for the sustainable harnessing of ocean resources for the development of a country along with world economic system. Covering 75 per cent of the global surface and 80 per cent of global trade, marine ecosystems constitute a key resource for economic development.

A Ramachandran, Vice-Chancellor of Kufos, said that the objective of the India's first blue economy is to draw a suitable roadmap for the country to promote smart, sustainable and inclusive growth and generate employment opportunities by utilisation of marine and inland aqua resources in a green and healthy manner.

Around 400 stakeholders representing 28 countries including researches and policy makers are attending the three-day conference.

Financial Express | Nov 01, 2019

Sourcing tops Kerala coir's Rs 1,300-crore modernisation

Coir exports in Kerala are getting back on the rails after skipping a prestigious event of its international expo last year, due to the August 2018 floods. Rather than product diversification or design, the bulk of the Rs 1,300-crore modernisation package for coir, is pegged specifically on backward integration.

Kerala accounts for nearly 80% of the country’s Rs 2,281-crore coir product exports. India’s coir domestic market size is estimated to be Rs 3,500 crore.

“Measures are underway to pump funds, schemes and effort into regularising the supply of raw material coconut fibre for coir production. As the revival package is underway, about 100 coir mills have been put in place to expand the production capacities. In the current fiscal, 300 more coir mills will be set up, accomplishing 50% utilisation of coconut husk available in the state,” State finance minister Thomas Isaac told FE.

Sourcing of raw material from far-flung farms has been creating bottlenecks in coir production.

Though 61% of India’s coconuts come from Kerala for its raw material coconut husk, Kerala leans heavily on coconut traders from Tamil Nadu. “With China entering the fray as a major coir fibre buyer, Tamil Nadu has been exporting the bulk of its value-added coconut husk, creating raw-material sourcing issues for domestic coir industry,” said Rani George, secretary (coir), Kerala government.

The revival package is to address these backward integration issues in the industry. “To jack up coir production, 1,000 additional automatic spinning machines would be plied this fiscal,” she said.

FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry) is partnering as Coir Kerala-2019, the eighth edition of the international expo on coir and natural fibre products, slated to be held in Alappuzha from December 4-8.

“There will be no slacking on forward integration as well. The international buyer’s meet, that goes with the Expo, is counted to broaden the market base for coir products,” said Dr Isaac.

Mumbai Mirror | Aug 18, 2019

After India, Sri Lanka launches Ramayana Tourism Circuit

The Sri Lankan government has launched a Ramayana tourism circuit to attract more tourists from India. The circuit will link all temples and caves in the country associated with the Hindu epic. Sri Lanka Tourism Minister John Amaratunga launched the initiative at the Sri Lanka Tourism Roadhow in Kochi on Friday.

Manavari temple, Ravan cave, Ashok Vatika, Seetha Amman temple, Divurumpola, Ussangoda, Thiru Koneswaram temple and Kathirkamam are part of the Ramayana circuit in Sri Lanka.

The Indian government had also launched the Ramayana circuit and is one of the fifteen thematic circuits identified for development under the Swadesh Darshan scheme. The tourism ministry last year identified 15 destinations for development under the Ramayana circuit. Ayodhya, Nandigram, Nashik, Nagpur, Hampi and Rameshwaram were among the 15 destinations identified under the scheme for development.

Amaratunga said that as part of the initiative, a ferry service will be launched between Thalaimannar in Sri Lanka and Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu government has given the green signal for the ferry service and it is expected to be launched by the end of this year.

Moreover, in the roadshow organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), Amartunga said Indian tourists who are visiting Sri Lanka will be provided with free visas. Also, the country has introduced a 50 per cent discount on hotel packages with effect from August 1 for Indian tourists and also brought down ground handling charges in airports substantially.

Tourists from South India have been ignoring Sri Lanka for some time now due to "internal problems." However, the situation has changed and Sri Lanka is presently a safe destination, the minister said.

He added the new policies which were being introduced were part of a larger plan to revive the tourism industry.

The New Indian Express | Aug 18, 2019

Lanka banks on Ramayana tourism circuit to draw more Indian visitors

To attract more tourists from India, the Sri Lankan government launched a Ramayana tourism circuit, which will links all temples and caves in the country associated with the Hindu epic. The initiative was presented by Sri Lanka Tourism Minister John Amaratunga at the Sri Lanka Tourism Roadshow held in Kochi on Friday.

Amartunga said tourists from India visiting Sri Lanka will be provided with free visas. Also, the country has int roduced a 50 per cent discount on hotel packages with effect from August 1 for Indian tourists and also brought down ground handling charges in airports.

According to the Minister, Sri Lanka today, has the highest number of concessions for its guests. “Free visa programs have been announced to encourage tourists from India. Sri Lanka, for some time now, was not being considered by tourists from South India owing to internal problems. However, the situation has changed. Our country is now a safe destination,” he said. The Minister said new policies which were being introduced were part of a larger plan to revive the tourism industry.

Since the Tamil Nadu government has also given the green signal to operate ferry service to Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu from Thalaimannar in Sri Lanka, Sri Lankan authorities will soon kick off the project. The ferry service is expected to be launched by the end of this year after finalising procedures with the Indian government.

Manavari temple, Ravan cave, Ashok Vatika, Seetha Amman temple, Divurumpola, Ussangoda, Thiru Koneswaram temple and Kathirkamam are part of the Ramayana circuit in Sri Lanka.

Felix Rodrigo, advisor to the Minister of Tourism delivered a presentation on Sri Lanka Tourism at the Roadshow while Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau assistant director Viranga Bandara introduced the features of Sri Lanka Tourism. District Collector S Suhas, FICCI co-chairman Deepak L Aswani, FICCI state tourism committee convener U C Riyas, FICCI state head Savio Mathew also spoke.

The event was organised by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce(FICCI) along with Sri Lankan Tourism Bureau and Spice Land Holidays Group. The Indian government had also launched the Ramayana circuit in June this year and is one of the fifteen thematic circuits identified for development under Swadesh Darshan Scheme.

millennium Post | Aug 17, 2019

Lanka launches ambitious tourism programme to woo Indian tourists

The Sri Lankan government has launched an ambitious tourism promotion programme here aiming to give a boost to the key revenue-generating sector of the island nation by attracting more Indian tourists.

Sri Lanka Tourism Minister John Amaratunga presented a Ramayana Tourism Circuit at the Sri Lanka Tourism Roadshow organised here on Friday by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce (FICCI), along with the Sri Lankan Tourism Promotion Bureau.

The Minister said a ferry service would be launched from Thalaimannar in Sri Lanka to Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu as part of the promotion of the Ramayana Tourism circuit.

The Tamil Nadu government has given the green signal for this, Amaratunga was quoted as saying in a FICCI press release here.

The Minister said the ferry service was expected to start this year-end after completing the procedures with the government of India.

Amaratunga said Sri Lanka was trying to attract more tourists from South India.

Fromthis month, tourists visiting Sri Lanka would be provided free visas. With effect from August 1, tourists were offered a 50 per cent discount on hotel packages this season.

Ground-handling charges in airports have been substantially reduced.

Sri Lanka today has the highest number of concessions for its guests, the release quoted the Minister as saying.

"The highest number of tourists visiting Sri Lanka are from India. Sri Lanka's revenues from tourism were US $4.3 billion last year", the Minister said.

He said the free visa programmes and other facilities have been announced to encourage tourists from India.

"Due to some internal problems, Sri Lanka has not been more important to tourists from South India for some time. But the situation has changed. Now our country is a safe destination," Amaratunga said.

He said the new policies were part of a larger plan to revive the tourism industry.

Felix Rodrigo, advisor to the Minister of Tourism, delivered a presentation on Sri Lanka tourism at the roadshow.

The Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau assistant director Viranga Bandara introduced the features of Sri Lanka Tourism.

Kochi district Collector S Suhas, FICCI co-chairman Deepak L Aswani, FICCI state tourism committee convener UC Riyas and FICCI state head Savio Mathew also spoke.

The Times of India | Aug 17, 2019

Sri Lanka wooing Indian tourists in a big way

Sri Lanka tourism minister John Amaratunga presented a Ramayana Tourism Circuit at the Sri Lanka Tourism Roadshow organised here on Friday by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce (FICCI), along with the Sri Lankan Tourism Promotion Bureau.

The minister said a ferry service would be launched from Thalaimannar in Sri Lanka to Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu as part of the promotion of the Ramayana Tourism circuit.

The Tamil Nadu government has given the green signal for this, Amaratunga was quoted as saying in a FICCI press release here.

The Minister said the ferry service was expected to start this year-end after completing the procedures with the government of India.

Amaratunga said Sri Lanka was trying to attract more tourists from South India.

From this month, tourists visiting Sri Lanka would be provided free visas. With effect from August 1, tourists were offered a 50 per cent discount on hotel packages this season.