The Ministry of Tourism (MoT), Government of India has decided to support the Kerala Boat Race that is held annually in the Backwaters of Alleppay and surrounding areas. Mr.K.Chiranjeevi, Union Tourism Minister announced on the occasion of the start of the 61st Nehru boat Race in Alappuzha that the State Govt. Of Kerala will contribute Rs.17.50 Lakhs for the Annual event while Union Tourism Ministry will contribute a matching amount.
Kerala Governor Nikhil Kumar inaugurated the race while PWD Minister of Kerala State, V K Ibrahim Kunju hoisted the flag. Kodikunnil Suresh, Minister of State for Labour and Employment ,Govt of India was also present on the occasion apart from other prominent state leaders.
Speaking on the Occasion , Chiranjeevi also announced a Mega Alleppey Backwater Development project for which a provision of Rs. 47.62 crores shall be made by the Tourism Ministry. Chiranjeevi also said that the Backwaters of the Kerala and the annual Boat race have immense tourism potential. The Tourism Ministry is therefore making all efforts to convert the Backwaters of Kerala into Internationally sought destination.