Pochampally, a picturesque village in Telangana, secured a place as one of the Best Tourism Villages recognised by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). The UNWTO’s award is expected to be presented at its 24th General Assembly session slated for December 2021 in Madrid, Spain. Furthermore, the Union Ministry of Tourism in India has crafted a Rural Tourism Policy aimed at advancing tourism in rural areas, fortifying local arts and crafts, and propelling the rural economy.
In another noteworthy mention, the Rudreswara Temple, also known as Ramappa Temple, located in the Mulugu district of Telangana, recently earned a spot on UNESCO’s World Heritage list.
The Unique Appeal of Pochampally Village
Famously referred to as the silk city of India, Pochampally boasts an impressive record in the production of exquisite sarees. Their unique Ikat weaving style led to them earning a Geographical Indicator (GI Status) in 2004. The Prime Minister, embracing the Vocal 4 Local mantra of Atmanirbhar Bharat, put special emphasis on Pochampally’s exceptional weaving styles and patterns to promote local productivity.
Pochampally is also historically acknowledged for its role in the Bhoodan Movement that was heralded by Acharya Vinobha Bhave in 1951. This village was subsequently named Bhoodan Pochampally in honor of the movement. Acharya Vinoba Bhabe, the first international figure to receive the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1958, was posthumously bestowed with the Bharat Ratna in 1983.
Best Tourism Villages Initiative by UNWTO
The Best Tourism Villages Initiative is a pioneering effort by the UNWTO that aims to bring forward the villages where tourism bolsters cultures and traditions, fosters diversity, and safeguards biodiversity. It seeks to honour those rural destinations that exemplify good practices in concert with its nine designated evaluation areas. This initiative also extends support to these villages to enhance their rural tourism potential by providing training and access to opportunities for growth.
Other Recommended Indian Villages
The Ministry of Tourism proposed three Indian villages for the UNWTO Best Tourism Village entry. These included Kongthong in Meghalaya, Ladhpura Khas in Madhya Pradesh, and Pochampally in Telangana. Out of these, Pochampally secured accolades as one of the best Tourism Villages by UNWTO.
About The United Nations World Tourism Organisation
Established in 1975, the UNWTO is a specialised United Nations Agency championing responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism activities worldwide. Based in Madrid, Spain, the UNWTO fervently urges the implementation of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, seeking to optimise tourism’s socio-economic benefits while minimising any possible adverse implications.
Last Modified: February 13, 2024