20 Lakh Foreign Tourists: Karnataka’s New Tourism Policy Targets Rs 1,500 Cr Investment

October 28, 2024 Parasshuram Shalgar India, Travel 0

“Karnataka Unveils Plan to Become a Top Tourist Destination”
“Karnataka Unveils Plan to Become a Top Tourist Destination”

In a substantial move to boost the state’s tourism sector, the Karnataka cabinet on Monday approved a new tourism policy, targeting investments worth Rs 1,500 crore. The policy aims to position Karnataka among the top five states in attracting foreign tourists and among the top three in domestic tourism.

“We are aiming to attract 20 lakh foreign tourists annually,” said Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil during a press briefing after the Cabinet meeting. “With respect to domestic footfalls, we want to be among the top three states, targeting 48 crore local tourists.”

The new policy is designed to enhance various facets of tourism, including adventure, eco, and cultural tourism. “Our goal is to create a comprehensive and inclusive tourism environment that not only attracts visitors but also provides significant employment opportunities,” Patil added.

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The state government is optimistic that this policy will not only boost tourism but also contribute to the overall economic growth of Karnataka. “We are confident that the new tourism policy will bring in substantial investments and create numerous job opportunities, directly and indirectly,” Patil emphasized.

With this ambitious plan, Karnataka is set to become a major player in the tourism sector, leveraging its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cities to attract tourists from around the world.

Key Highlights of the Policy:

Investment Goals: The policy aims to draw ₹1,500 crore in investments, focusing on enhancing infrastructure, promoting sustainable tourism, and creating new tourist attractions.
Tourist Influx: Karnataka plans to attract 20 lakh foreign tourists annually, positioning itself among the top five states in India for international tourism.
Domestic Tourism Boost: The policy also aims to increase domestic tourist visits to 48 crore, leveraging the state’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse attractions.
Thematic Tourism: Emphasis will be placed on adventure tourism, eco-tourism, and heritage tourism, with specific initiatives to develop these sectors.

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Government’s Vision

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar highlighted the government’s vision to make Karnataka a premier tourist destination. “A robust tourism policy will not only attract investments but also create jobs and boost the state’s economy. We are committed to developing Karnataka’s tourism potential to its fullest,” he said.

Strategic Initiatives

The policy includes several strategic initiatives such as developing a sky deck in Bengaluru, enhancing coastal tourism along the state’s 300-km coastline, and creating new tourist spots like Brindavana, modeled after Disneyland.

 

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