Mumbai, Jan 3 (IANS): Realty major Mahindra Lifespace Developers Ltd. (MLDL) and Maharashtra government on Thursday signed an agreement to develop Murud as an eco-friendly global tourist destination, an official said here.

The plans include developing around 1,300 acres to promote health and wellness, adventure, culture and heritage tourism in this tiny coastal village in adjoining Raigad district, around 150 km from Mumbai.

MLDL's subsidiary Deep Mangal Developers Pvt. Ltd. signed the agreement to revamp Murud under the state's Tourism Policy intended to attract investments, create jobs and skill development.

"Tourism has the potential to significantly improve the lives of local communities, contribute to economic growth, and attract investments. I am happy MLDL is taking the initiative to develop Murud region blessed with unmatched natural beauty," said Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra said not only would the new initiative help put Murud on the global tourism map, but it would also catalyse the growth of the local tourism industry by creating new jobs and business opportunities.

MLDL Chairman Arun Nanda said the development of Murud as 'one-of-its-kind tourism destination' would cater to the globally growing needs of holistic healthcare and wellness tourism besides promoting adventure and heritage tourism.

Located in the scenic coastal Konkan belt, Murud has a long history and is famed for its Murud-Janjira sea forts, besides pristine beaches of Kashid and Murud, the Garambi falls and an invigorating climate, making it the ideal global tourist attraction.

Maharashtra's Tourism Policy 2016 has declared tourism as a priority sector to drive investments, economic development and employment generation for which the government will support projects by facilitating necessary infrastructure for the tourists arriving from all over the world.