Karnataka government picks 41 destinations to boost tourism
Speaking to media, Karnataka chief minister BS Yediyurappa said that the state government has picked 41 destinations to boost the tourism industry in the state
FollowBengaluru: Karnataka chief minister BS Yediyurappa on Monday (August 26) said that the state government has identified 41 destinations to boost the tourism industry in the state.
Speaking to media at Karnataka International Travel Expo-2019, he said, "We have identified 41 focus destinations for priority development and promotion. The master plan for the development of 21 of those destinations has been completed, and implementation of projects has been initiated."
Giving an insight on the roadmap to boost the tourism industry, Yediyurappa said that the government intended to enhance the gross state domestic product (GSDP) contribution from tourism to 20% and also create more than 65 lakh direct and indirect jobs in this sector by 2025.
"To achieve this, our government is focused on a multi-dimensional approach which includes infrastructure development, skill development, creating tourist facilities on highways as well as in tourist destinations, hospitality, among others," the chief minister added.
In this context, Yediyurappa informed the delegates from the industry that the state has formed a vision group under the leadership of Infosys Foundation chairperson Dr Sudha Murthy.
He said the government's emphasis was to promote sustainable tourism development to make Karnataka one of the most sought-after destinations in the world.
Speaking about the potential in tourism, he told the delegates about the 320-km coastline, mountains, spiritual and religious grid, cultural heritage, and the world heritage sites at Hampi, Pattadakal and the Western Ghats.
The government intended to include four more tentative sites, he said.
The state offers a wealth of tourism products nature, wildlife, spiritualism, heritage, culture, adventure, wellness and healthcare, he said.
"Our government sees great potential for tourism development," Yediyurappa told the delegates.
