Andhra Pradesh Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh has announced plans to develop the film industry in Visakhapatnam and Tirupati. The government will soon introduce a new policy after consulting with film industry representatives to create an action plan for movie development in Andhra Pradesh.

Minister Durgesh revealed that the state government is taking steps to promote film industry growth in Visakhapatnam. He mentioned that soon after the alliance government came to power, CM Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan held discussions with film industry bigwigs. The government has encouraged producers to establish studios in AP similar to those in Hyderabad, promising complete support to create employment opportunities. Durgesh highlighted that AP has numerous stunning locations across the state that would be perfect for filmmaking.

The minister stated that the government would support studio construction either directly or through public-private partnerships. He mentioned that 34 acres were previously allocated for Ramanaidu Studio in Visakhapatnam, but the previous government diverted 15 acres for other purposes by creating layouts. The current government plans to ensure all 34 acres are utilized for the film industry in the coming days.

Responding to questions about tribal areas, Durgesh clarified that the state government has no intention of amending the 1/70 Act. Instead, they plan to develop tourism in tribal areas with the participation of tribal communities. He strongly criticized the previous government for encroaching on tribal lands and accused YSRCP leaders of attempting to occupy red soil mounds in Visakhapatnam. The minister firmly stated that the alliance government would take measures to protect tribal lands and would never allow land encroachment under any circumstances.