As was the case all over the world, the tourism sector in Tamil Nadu also felt the brunt of the coronavirus pandemic. However, the government took several strategic steps in the past year to ensure that travel and tourism sector regained its past glory

• The Tourism Destination Development Scheme was launched to identify and develop tourist destinations in the state on the principles of integrated and sustainable development with a focus on the enhancement of tourist experiences at the destination.
• In order to harness the tourism potential of the state, an integrated and holistic approach to the Master Plan for 300 destinations across the state has been prepared.
• To ensure the creation of a safe and secure tourism environment, a committee was formed by the Government of Tamil Nadu to draw the &ldquoRevival plan for Tourism Sector in Tamil Nadu after lockdown of COVID-19&rdquo.
• Coastal tourism has been identified as a priority sector and beachfront development is being carried out at the island area of the Mudaliarkuppam Boat House at an estimated cost of Rs 50 lakhs.
• For the first time, the &ldquoState Tourism Awards&rdquo will be presented to various stakeholders associated with the tourism industry in Tamil Nadu. These awards will encourage tourism entrepreneurs and potential tourism stakeholders to operate tourism-related activities in the state.
• A 3D projection mapping-based Sound and Light Show system is being installed to illuminate the Thiruvalluvar statue at Kanyakumari at an estimated cost of Rs 10.22 crores.
• Kolli Hills will be developed as a major tourist destination at a cost of Rs 2.52 crores by setting up of eco-adventure resort and camping sites.
• An adventure and eco-camping site will be set up for the transformation of Jawwadhu Hills as a prime tourist destination with varied tourist amenities at a cost of Rs 2.91 crores.
• Guidelines are being formulated for registration and recognition of adventure tourism, caravan tourism and caravan parks, camping sites, homestays and bed and breakfast establishment operators.
• Adventure tourism and eco-camping are being promoted at lesser-known destinations like Yelagiri, Chittar, Pirappanvalasai, Mannavanur, Gundar, Nilgiris, Chengalpattu at an estimated cost of Rs 11.15 crores.
• As a part of the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav initiative, the Department of Tourism has published 75 promotional videos on various digital media platforms on these themes to demonstrate the myriad tourism offerings of the state. The videos highlight the attractiveness of tourist destinations by showcasing mesmerising landscapes, splendid cultural heritage, stunning architecture, pristine beaches, mesmerising waterfalls, traditional art forms, renowned crafts and cuisine. These videos will be helpful for effective social media promotions and position Tamil Nadu as a high-priority tourist destination across the globe.
• Tamil Nadu Tourism incorporated emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence and Virtual reality for the creation of AR- / VR-based booklets and pamphlets to promote the tourist destinations of the state.

Furthermore, to the state&rsquos credit, it was able to organise and sponsor several events in a pandemic-hit year, thus keeping its travel and tourism sectors afloat. Some of these include

• Covelong Classic 2021 at Surf Turf in Kovalam
• The Indian Dance Festival 2021-22 at Mamallapuram
• 75th Suthanthira Thirunaal Amudha Peruvizha, Vellore
• Jallikattu Festival at Kumarapalayam
• Chennai Photo Biennale 2021 at Chennai
• The Travel and Tourism Fair at Chennai Trade Centre, Chennai
• Chithirai Festival 2022, Madurai
• WOW Tamil Nadu Awards 2021, Chennai
• 'Namma Oorru Thiruvizha&rsquo &ndash A grand festival celebrating folk arts

Additionally, it participated in a host of national and international events, including

• World Expo 2020 in Dubai, which was hosted in October 2021
• India International Trade Fair, New Delhi
• International Hot Air Balloon Festival in Le&oacuten, Mexico
• 7th International Tourism Conclave & Travel Awards (ITICA) (Tamil Nadu Tourism bagged the prize in the category, &ldquoAward for promoting Religious and Pilgrimage Tourism&rdquo) in New Delhi
• First South Indian Conference on Health and Traditional Medicine 2021, Chennai
• India Today Tourism Conclave & Awards 2021, New Delhi, where it won the Best Mountain Destination Award (Coonoor, Nilgiris district), the Best Festival Destination (for the vibrant Pongal celebrations) and secured the runner-up spot for the Most Scenic Road Award (Kolli Hills, Namakkal District)