Center Approves Loan For Tourism Development in Telangana from Vajirao & Reddy Institute

CENTER APPROVES LOAN FOR TOURISM DEVELOPMENT IN TELANGANA

• The Union government of India has sanctioned ?141 crore in loans to develop two major tourism projects in Telangana. These are:
  • Ramappa Region Sustainable Tourism Circuit
  • Somasila Wellness & Spiritual Retreat Nallamala
• These loans are approved under the Special Assistance to States/Union Territories for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme, which aims to promote the development of iconic tourist centers across India to meet global standards.
• The projects in Telangana are part of a larger initiative involving 40 projects across 23 states.

• Ramappa Region Sustainable Tourism Circuit: ?73.74 crore
• Somasila Wellness & Spiritual Retreat: ?68.10 crore
• The loans will be interest-free and are to be repaid over 50 years.

• The Ramappa Region Sustainable Tourism Circuit aims to develop the infrastructure around the Ramappa Temple (also known as Kakatiya Rudreshwara Temple), which was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021.
• This includes the development of areas such as Incherla village, Ramappa Island, Kota Gullu Temple, and Ghanpur village's lakefront.
• The Somasila Wellness & Spiritual Retreat aims to create a wellness-focused spiritual retreat in the Nallamala hills, enhancing the area's appeal as a place for health and spiritual tourism.
• Proposed components include organic cafes, wellness retreats, spiritual viewpoints, and interpretation centers.

• Location: The Ramappa Temple is located 68 km from Warangal and around 200 km from Hyderabad.
• Historical Context: The temple was built in 1213 AD under the patronage of the Kakatiya dynasty, specifically by Rudra Samani, the chief commander of Kakati Ganapathi Deva.
• Architectural Significance:
  • Earthquake-proof Construction: The bricks used in the temple are made from a unique blend of clay, acacia wood, chaff, and myrobalan fruit, making them light enough to float on water.
  • This earthquake-resistant feature is a remarkable example of ancient engineering.
  • Sandbox Technique: The foundation is built using a mixture of sand-lime, jaggery, and black myrobalan, providing natural cushioning in case of earthquakes.
  • Musical Pillars: Some pillars in the temple are carved with figures, including a pillar with a carving of Lord Krishna.
  • These pillars produce musical notes when struck, adding a unique auditory dimension to the temple.

• The Nagara style is the architectural style of temples that is typically found in northern India. It contrasts with the Dravida style seen in southern India.
• Key features of Nagara architecture include:
  • Shikhara: A mountain-like spire above the sanctum sanctorum (garbha griha).
  • Mandapa: Halls that surround the sanctum for various rituals and ceremonies.
  • Circumambulatory Passage: A passage around the sanctum for devotees to walk during religious rituals.

• Economic Boost: The development of these two tourism circuits is expected to significantly boost the local economy by attracting domestic and international tourists.
• The loans will fund infrastructure improvements, including roads, tourist facilities, and amenities, thus creating job opportunities for the local population.
• Cultural Preservation: The development of the Ramappa temple and its surroundings will help preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Kakatiya dynasty, while the wellness retreat at Somasila will emphasize sustainability and ecological preservation.