Karnataka is preparing for a major overhaul of its maritime tourism sector to compete with neighboring global hotspots such as Goa and Kerala. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announced that the state government is committed to developing the 300-kilometer-long coastline through a brand-new, specialized coastal tourism policy.
Speaking at the Coastal Tourism Conclave 2026 in Mangaluru on January 10, 2026, Shivakumar emphasized that the current general state policies often fail to address the unique legal and environmental requirements of beach-front development.
Unlocking Economic Potential Across Three Districts
The new framework targets the districts of Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada, which collectively boast 94 beaches and 21 river islands. Shivakumar noted that while the region possesses natural assets similar to international destinations, it lacks essential high-end infrastructure, such as five-star hotels and integrated resorts.
To rectify this, the government plans to appoint a Special Nodal Officer to fast-track approvals and resolve legal bottlenecks, particularly those related to Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules. The administration has already committed ₹200 crore (200 Crores) toward initial coastal development projects starting this year.
DK Shivakumar highlighted the need for a shift in perspective during his address. “Our government is committed to the development of our 300-km coastline and has planned to implement a new tourism policy,” the Deputy CM stated.
“The natural beauty and potential here are no different from Goa, yet we have faltered in execution. We are now creating a roadmap to attract investors and ensure the local youth find opportunities right here at home rather than migrating abroad.”
ಕರಾವಳಿಗೆ ಪ್ರತ್ಯೇಕ ಪ್ರವಾಸೋದ್ಯಮ ನೀತಿ
ರಾಜ್ಯದ 300 ಕಿ.ಮೀ ಉದ್ದದ ಕರಾವಳಿ ತೀರದ ಪ್ರವಾಸೋದ್ಯಮ ಅಭಿವೃದ್ಧಿಗೆ ನಮ್ಮ ಸರ್ಕಾರ ಬದ್ಧವಾಗಿದ್ದು, ಹೊಸ ಪ್ರವಾಸೋದ್ಯಮ ನೀತಿ ಜಾರಿಗೆ ಯೋಜನೆ ರೂಪಿಸಿದೆ.
ಮಂಗಳೂರಿನಲ್ಲಿ ನಡೆದ ಕರಾವಳಿ ಪ್ರವಾಸೋದ್ಯಮ ಸಮಾವೇಶ – 2026ರಲ್ಲಿ ಭಾಗವಹಿಸಿದ ಕ್ಷಣಗಳು. pic.twitter.com/rE2UsL7KHe
— DK Shivakumar (@DKShivakumar) January 14, 2026
Strategic Growth and Investor Engagement
Investment in the region is expected to rise sharply under the new guidelines. The government has identified 40 strategic nodes for development and is proposing the formation of a Coastal Tourism Development Board.
According to Deccan Herald, the Deputy CM has already instructed officials to prepare an action plan involving local stakeholders, entrepreneurs from the Gulf regions, and elected representatives. This collaborative approach ensures that the policy aligns with local cultural heritage, including the promotion of traditional events like Kambala and the tiger dance.
Modernizing transport is another pillar of this vision. Plans include a ₹180 crore (180 Crores) Water Metro Project in Mangaluru and a ₹37.8 crore (37.8 Crores) coastal ferry service linking key ports.
By integrating high-speed water transport with luxury beach stays and eco-tourism retreats, Karnataka aims to significantly boost its GST collections and position itself as a top-tier travel destination in Asia.