Thu Mar 20 09:21:35 UTC 2025: ## Telangana Government Denies Rs 200 Crore Miss World Spending Claim
**Hyderabad, India –** The Telangana government has strongly denied reports claiming it is spending Rs 200 crore (approximately $24 million USD) to host the 72nd Miss World pageant in Hyderabad from May 7th to 31st. Smita Sabharwal, Secretary of the state’s Tourism, Culture, Heritage, and Youth Affairs Department, clarified that the government’s contribution is only Rs 27 crore (approximately $3.3 million USD), or 50% of the event’s total cost.
Ms. Sabharwal stated that the remaining funds are being secured through over 100 corporate sponsorships. She emphasized that the event places no burden on the state’s budget. The significant discrepancy between reported and actual government spending has drawn criticism from opposition parties questioning the allocation of public funds to an international beauty pageant.
Defending the government’s decision, Ms. Sabharwal highlighted the economic benefits of tourism, arguing that the Miss World pageant will showcase Telangana’s potential as a tourist destination and act as a significant revenue generator. She further pointed to the state’s recent infrastructural advancements as a foundation for attracting such events. The pageant’s opening and closing ceremonies, including the grand finale, will take place in Hyderabad on May 31st.
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