in order to promote Andhra Pradesh as an attractive tourist destination, the state government has decided to rope in badminton ace Saina Nehwal as its new brand ambassador. Jayesh Ranjan, Tourism Secretary, Andhra Pradesh said, “Saina Nehwal has consented to be our brand ambassador. We will soon sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in this regard.”

Saina Nehwal, currently the world number two in women’s badminton, is expected to take up her new assignment on September 27, 2010 on the occasion of World Tourism Day. “I feel honoured and privileged to be chosen as the brand ambassador of Andhra Pradesh Tourism. I hope to continue my good performance in badminton by putting in best efforts,” said Nehwal.

J Geeta Reddy, Tourism Minister, Andhra Pradesh said, “She travels widely not only across India but also other countries to participate in various tournaments. Given her current status in the world of badminton, she can promote Andhra Pradesh and improve our tourism also.”

Saina Nehwal’s coach and former All-England Champion Pullela Gopichand had also been appointed as brand ambassador of Andhra Pradesh Tourism following his success in the international badminton circuit. India’s woman tennis star Sania Mirza had also earlier donned the role of brand ambassador of the coastal state.

The tourism industry in Andhra Pradesh has grown 16 per cent in 2009 with tourist arrivals touching 127 million, including 7.60 lakh foreigners. The state receives most domestic tourists in India, followed by Uttar Pradesh, according to official sources.