Two new projects aimed at revitalising Kerala’s tourism sector have received approval from the Union government.

Minister for Tourism P A Mohammed Riyas announced that the Union Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned the Kollam Biodiversity and Recreational Hub Project worth ₹59.71 crore and the Sargalaya Global Gateway to Malabar Cultural Crucible Project costing ₹95.34 crore. These projects were approved under the  Development of Iconic Tourist Centres to Global Scale initiative, with a total allocation of ₹155.05 crore.  

State tourism officials, following the direction of Minister Riyas, presented detailed project proposals to Union Tourism Department authorities in New Delhi, leading to the funding approval. The Kollam Biodiversity and Recreational Hub Project envisions the expansion of the Biodiversity Circuit designed by the State Tourism Department, connecting various tourism centres in Kollam district.

Meanwhile, the Sargalaya Global Gateway to Malabar Cultural Crucible Project outlined a tourism corridor stretching from the Sargalaya Arts and Crafts Village to Beypore in Kozhikode district, including the village’s expansion as part of the initiative.

Minister Riyas stated that these projects represent a significant leap forward in Kerala's tourism development, with a focus on expanding the state’s tourist destinations and transforming Kerala into a comprehensive tourism hub. The Tourism Department is committed to completing the projects within stipulated timelines, ensuring they contribute to the state’s overarching vision of tourism growth and development.