Karnataka to Prepare Coastal-Malnad Tourism Policy Draft by September 7: K.J. George
Bengaluru: Karnataka will prepare the draft of its proposed Coastal-Malnad Tourism Policy by September 7 as part of efforts to comprehensively develop the tourism potential of the state’s coastal and Malnad districts, Energy and Tourism Minister K.J. George said.
George held a meeting with elected representatives from the coastal and Malnad regions at Vidhana Soudha to discuss key provisions to be incorporated in the proposed policy, opportunities for tourism investment and regulatory issues currently affecting the sector.
The meeting discussed developing the regions’ diverse tourism resources, including beaches, religious and cultural destinations and nature-based tourism, while using their potential to strengthen local economies, attract investment and create employment opportunities.
Elected representatives raised the need to simplify the process of securing approvals from multiple departments for tourism investments. MLA V. Sunil Kumar proposed a single-window mechanism for tourism projects in the coastal region, saying a streamlined system for permissions and inter-departmental coordination could help attract new investment.
U.T. Khader said the coastal region had significant tourism potential but projects faced difficulties due to regulations relating to Coastal Regulation Zones, eco-sensitive areas and the Forest Department. He suggested reviewing the relevant regulations and approval procedures in a manner that facilitates tourism development while ensuring environmental protection along the coast.
Rizwan Arshad raised the need to create a conducive environment for expanding hotels and tourism activities in Udupi district. He suggested that the policy provide suitable provisions concerning operating hours and related arrangements, taking into account tourist demand and the nature of tourism activities.
George said suggestions made during the meeting would be examined while preparing the draft policy. He described coastal and Malnad Karnataka as major tourism assets and said a comprehensive policy should reflect local requirements as well as suggestions from elected representatives.
The minister said the government was targeting September 7 to complete the draft. Further consultations will be held before the policy is finalised.
George also said a Cabinet meeting would be held in Mangaluru shortly and that consideration would be given to taking a final decision related to the policy on that occasion.
Tourism Department Secretary Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar and elected representatives including Capt. Brijesh Chowta, Kota Srinivas Poojary, V. Sunil Kumar, Manjunath Bhandary, Ivan D’Souza, Harish Poonja, Umanath A. Kotian, Y. Bharath Shetty, D. Vedavyas Kamath, U. Rajesh Naik, Bhagirathi Murulya, Ashok Kumar Rai, Gururaj Shetty Gantihole, A. Kiran Kumar Kodgi, Yashpal Suvarna and Gurme Suresh Shetty attended the meeting and offered suggestions on tourism development in their constituencies.
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