Spice route november 2016 issue

MELANGE ||||| INFORMATION
RANN UTSAV BEGINS IN KUTCH •
The official dates of Rann Utsav have been announced – it will be
held from November 1, 2016, to February 20, 2017. Rann Utsav is
a celebration of the culture of Kutch. On a full moon night during
Rann Utsav, the region wakes to an endless cycle of dance, where
century-old traditions are revived in celebration. The distinctive
folk dances and music, intricate arts and crafts and gracious
people, along with the affluent handicraft culture of the district
such as folk textiles, exquisite embroidery, Bandhani
saris, traditional ornaments and mirror-work are some of the
specialties of Kutch.
NEW PROGRAMMES TO PROMOTE
TOURISM IN ANDHRA PRADESH
The government has given in-principle approval
to three new airport projects in Andhra Pradesh at
Bhogapuram, Dagadarthi (in Nellore) and Orvakallu (in
Kurnool). To further promote tourism around Bhavani
Island, the government is also forming a special
purpose body, Bhavani Island Tourism Company, which
will be engaged in planning and development of islands
in River Krishna and the riverfront. The government will
also construct nine jetties along the coast for the state
to cater to tourism. With an aim to promote Andhra
cuisine on a global platter, the state government will
host Culinary Olympics next year in Visakhapatnam.
116.9% GROWTH IN FOREIGN TOURISTS’ ARRIVAL
ON E-TOURIST VISA
A total of 68,809 foreign tourists arrived in India on e-tourist visa in
September, an increase of 116.9% as compared to the same period
last year. The UK (at 15.5%) continues to occupy top slot followed by
the USA (12.4%) and China (9%) among countries availing e-tourist
visa facility in September 2016.
SHUTTERSTOCK
50 ||||| NOVEMBER 2016