Keralam Tourism Minister P. C. Vishnunadh launches ‘Brand Wayanad’
P. C. Vishnunadh, Kerala's Tourism, Cinema and Cultural Affairs Minister, launched the Brand Wayanad initiative as part of the State Government's 100-day action programme.
The initiative aims to promote Wayanad's natural beauty, agriculture, heritage, culture, and local traditions to domestic and international tourists.
Key Focus Areas
Position Wayanad as a safe, sustainable, and globally recognized tourism destination.
Link tourism with:
- Wayanad coffee and spices
- Traditional rice varieties and honey
- Local cuisine
- Tribal heritage
- Agricultural and rural experiences
- Promote GI-tagged Wayanad Robusta Coffee through a "farm-to-cup" model.
Tourism Development Plans
- Kerala Tourism is exploring joint tourism circuits with destinations such as Coorg, Mysore, and even Sri Lanka.
- New Life Experience Trails under the Responsible Tourism Mission were also launched.
- Homestay owners will be grouped into clusters and provided specialized training.
Community & Heritage Initiatives
- The project aims to ensure tourism benefits farmers, artisans, tribal communities, and local entrepreneurs.
- The En Ooru Heritage Village will be expanded.
- A Tribal University and Heritage Knowledge Zone will be established at an estimated cost of ₹50 crore.
Other Initiatives
- Launch of the Wayanad CSR Exchange (land portal) to encourage corporate participation.
- Implementation of an e-waste-free campaign as part of environmental sustainability efforts.
- Increased focus on responsible tourism and homestay renovation.
Key Takeaway
Brand Wayanad seeks to create a distinct identity for the district by combining nature, culture, agriculture, tribal heritage, and responsible tourism, while ensuring sustainable local economic development.
