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The Karnataka government has officially announced its plan to introduce a dedicated coastal tourism policy aimed at unlocking the vast potential of its scenic coastline. This strategic move seeks to position Karnataka’s coastal assets on par with popular destinations like Kerala and Goa, while inviting private sector participation to boost tourism infrastructure and economic growth.
Setting Sail With Coastal Tourism Ambitions
The state government is formulating a comprehensive coastal tourism policy to promote planned and sustainable development along Karnataka’s 320-kilometer coastline.
As part of this initiative, around 40 strategic nodes and hotspots have already been identified for focused development under the new policy framework.
The government also plans to establish a Coastal Tourism Development Board to oversee and drive investments, development projects, and regulatory compliance in the sector.
Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar emphasized private sector partnership as vital to turning the vision into reality and making coastal tourism a significant growth engine.
Building On Natural And Cultural Assets
Karnataka’s coastline boasts pristine beaches, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage sites, offering enormous opportunities for diversified tourism products:
Key beaches like Tanneerbhavi, Someshwara, Maravanthe, and Honnavar are being developed to compete with top beach tourism destinations nationally.
The policy aims to balance tourism promotion with environmental conservation, ensuring sustainability in all developmental activities.
Besides leisure and beach tourism, the government plans to integrate eco-tourism, water sports, cultural tourism, and heritage site promotion as part of a holistic growth plan.
Complementing these efforts, the government is also pushing policies for homestays and bed-and-breakfast accommodations to provide diverse and sustainable lodging options.
Engaging The Private Sector For Investment
Recognizing the importance of private capital and expertise, the government is inviting investments through public-private partnerships:
The policy encourages private players to set up resorts, hotels, adventure sports facilities, and supporting infrastructure.
Karnataka Tourism Minister H K Patil highlighted the government’s readiness to provide financial incentives, including capital subsidies for hotel development and convention centers.
Over 120 tourism projects with approved subsidies worth around ₹1,900 crore are underway, including luxury resorts and world-class event venues.
Efforts are underway to diversify accommodation offerings, making the sector attractive for both upscale and budget travelers.
Policy Framework And Supportive Measures
The coastal tourism policy aligns with Karnataka’s broader tourism roadmap and sustainability principles:
It fits within Karnataka Tourism Policy 2024-29, which promotes inclusive growth of hospitality and tourism sectors.
The policy also supports government initiatives like the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) event theme ‘Future Scape 2047,’ focusing on redefining hospitality.
The establishment of the Coastal Tourism Development Board will provide a dedicated institutional mechanism to ensure smooth policy implementation and coordination.
Conscious efforts will be made to reduce accommodation costs and improve accessibility to attract wider tourist segments.
Economic And Social Significance
Coastal tourism development is expected to generate employment opportunities, support ancillary businesses, and boost the local economy in coastal districts.
It will support the revival of traditional coastal communities by integrating local culture and heritage preservation in tourism planning.
Sustainable tourism practices will safeguard fragile ecosystems and enhance Karnataka’s stature as a responsible travel destination.
The initiative is poised to attract domestic and international tourists, expanding Karnataka’s appeal beyond established urban tourism hubs.
Road Ahead: Charting Karnataka’s Coastal Tourism Future
With the announcement of this policy and associated initiatives, Karnataka steps into a new era of tourism development:
The government’s proactive approach indicates a clear focus on long-term coastal tourism growth balanced with ecological sensitivity.
Collaboration with stakeholders including private firms, investors, and local communities will be key to success.
The upcoming years are likely to witness transformative changes in Karnataka’s coastal tourism landscape, elevating the state to a premier destination status.
Monitoring and adaptive policy measures will ensure resilience against environmental challenges and market dynamics.
In summary, Karnataka’s coastal tourism policy promises to unlock vast potential by leveraging the state’s natural beauty and cultural wealth. The strategic engagement of the private sector, combined with a focus on sustainability and diversity, sets the stage for a vibrant and inclusive coastal tourism economy that benefits travelers and local communities alike.
Sources: The Hans India, The Week, Deccan Herald, National Herald, PTI
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