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KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER

Souvenir Network Launched by the Tourism Minister

Foreign tourists can now take home branded souvenirs. The Tourism Minister Shri P. A. Mohamed Riyas has launched the Kerala Souvenir Network initiative, a project of the state’s Responsible Tourism (RT) Mission. The project will create a chain of souvenir-making units across Kerala from where tourists can buy branded artefacts that carry the imprint of God’s Own Country. 

Launching the Kerala Souvenir Network initiative at a function held at Kerala Arts & Crafts Village, Vellar, the minister said that this is a unique project that will offer tourists home branded souvenirs that reflect Kerala’s culture and heritage, besides generating jobs and income for local communities. As a start, 15 branded artefacts will be created.

"The initiative aims at making available branded souvenirs that reflect the uniqueness and diversity of Kerala and its tourism destinations," Shri Riyas said.

"To start with, it has been planned to create 15 branded artefacts that reflect Kerala’s history, culture, art, and geographical features. For this, a network of craftspeople from across the state will be formed, and its members will be given special training to make attractive and handy souvenirs. Also, it is a completely environment-friendly and sustainable initiative as plastic will not be used as material for making these items,” the minister said.

Stressing the importance of local community participation, he said that the souvenir network will set up shops in prominent tourist destinations for the sale of these artefacts. 

The souvenirs will also be sold online through the website of the RT Mission. The unique features of the districts will be incorporated into each souvenir.