Foundation stone laid for ₹3 crore ‘Etikoppaka Theme Park’

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The foundation stone for the ‘Etikoppaka Handicrafts Theme park’, to be developed at a cost of ₹3 crore in Etikoppaka village of Yelamanchili mandal in Anakapalli district, was laid on Friday.

Special Chief Secretary, Youth Advancement, Tourism and Culture, S. S. Rawat, District Collector Vijaya Krishnan, APTDC Managing Director Ravi Pattanshetti, Yelamanchili MLA Sundarapu Vijay Kumar and others participated in the foundation-laying ceremony.

The MLA along with the officials visited the workshops of Etikoppaka artisans and reviewed the traditional methods used in making the famous lacquerware toys. They observed the process of making the toys, the use of natural colours and other traditional techniques, and interacted with the artisans to understand their work and challenges.

During the programme, Mr. Rawat said: “Etikoppaka handicrafts have earned a unique identity internationally,” and stressed the need to promote the traditional craft to support the artisans.

MLA Sundarapu Vijay Kumar said that 10 acres of land had been identified at Etikoppaka for the project and described the foundation-laying ceremony as an important step towards creating better opportunities for the village and its artisans. He said that the State government was committed to developing Etikoppaka as a major handicrafts and tourism destination.

The MLA shared that a comprehensive plan would be prepared for the welfare of Etikoppaka artisans, covering healthcare, marketing of their products and tourism development. He further added that discussions are on with the concerned departments on developing a resort in the vicinity and introducing boating facilities, as part of tourism promotion in Etikoppaka.

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