Star-hotel standards for Haritha Hotels: Telangana Tourism Development Corporation

The Telangana Tourism Development Corporation (TGTDC) is undertaking a series of measures to bring its Haritha Hotels, spread across the state, closer to the standards followed by leading hospitality establishments. The initiative, as outlined by the corporation, will focus on improving food quality, kitchen hygiene, accommodation, room maintenance, and guest services, alongside the introduction of technology-driven monitoring and booking systems.

Upgrade plans and inspections

According to The New Indian Express, the TGTDC is planning a major upgrade of Haritha Hotels with the aim of bringing their hospitality standards closer to those of star hotels. The Hindu reported that the corporation is undertaking a series of measures to improve quality across its properties. Both outlets noted that Managing Director Gowthami Pujari — referred to as P. Gouthami by The Hindu — has been conducting surprise inspections of Haritha Hotels across Telangana, reviewing rooms, restaurants, kitchens, food quality, hygiene, staff performance, maintenance, and overall service standards.

During these inspections, officials were instructed to ensure there is no compromise on food quality or kitchen hygiene. The Hindu reported that departmental action was initiated on Sunday, August 23, 2026, against Sambashiva Rao, Unit Manager of Haritha Hotel in Vikarabad. The New Indian Express also confirmed that departmental action was initiated against the unit manager of the Vikarabad hotel following a recent inspection, though it did not name the official.

Technology and monitoring

Both sources reported that CCTV-based live monitoring systems are being installed in the kitchens of all Haritha Hotel units to oversee food preparation, hygiene, and staff activities. Dedicated vigilance teams are also being constituted to conduct regular inspections, with The Hindu adding that these teams will review food quality, kitchen hygiene, room maintenance, and other services, with corrective action to be initiated wherever deficiencies are found.

In addition, the TGTDC is implementing an automated booking system that will allow tourists to check room availability and make reservations online. The New Indian Express described this as making the process more convenient and transparent.

Vision and leadership

Quoting Ms. Pujari, The Hindu reported: "With Telangana's tourism sector growing, the service standards at Haritha hotels also need to evolve. TGTDC is taking measures to bring the properties in line with the highest hospitality standards. The department's focus is on food quality, hygiene, service standards, continuous monitoring and the use of technology to make Haritha hotels more modern, reliable and tourist friendly." The New Indian Express similarly reported that Ms. Pujari said improving food quality, hygiene, accommodation, and services at Haritha Hotels is among TGTDC's priorities, and that hospitality standards must evolve with the growth of tourism.

The New Indian Express also reported that the corporation said Haritha Hotels are being developed beyond conventional accommodation facilities into modern hospitality destinations that could provide tourists with a better overall experience. The Hindu, for its part, noted that the corporation is seeking to adopt practices followed by star hotels to improve guest comfort and the overall experience.