Tourism Minister H.K. Patil rules out Goa model casino tourist attractions; to focus on heritage

Mysore/Mysuru: A workshop on Karnataka Tourism Policy 2024-2029 organised by Tourism Department was held at Hotel Lalit Ashok in Bengaluru yesterday and attended by over 500 tourism stakeholders including transport companies, hoteliers, trade bodies, experts and local associations, film chamber personalities, policymakers and officials from across the State.

The Mysuru district was represented by Karnataka Exhibition Authority (KEA) Chairman Ayub Khan and the Chairman of Jungle Lodges & Resorts Limited MLA Anil Chikkamadu. Tourism Department Principal Secretary Salma Fahim was also present.

Ayub Khan told Star of Mysore this morning that the workshop was held predominantly to discuss the tourism policy that will be implemented from 2024 to 2029. “Mysuru and its tourist places too figured in the discussions where plans were communicated to attract more revenue-based tourism, facilities for tourists and other related matters,” he said.

Inaugurating the workshop, Tourism Minister H.K. Patil emphasised the necessity of a robust partnership among the Government, public, and private sectors for the development of tourism in Karnataka. He addressed various suggestions received, particularly rejecting proposals to introduce activities like casinos to boost tourism.

No casino-based tourism

“Developing tourism akin to the Goa model, which includes ideas such as introducing casinos for revenue generation, has been proposed by many. However, I firmly oppose this approach. Permitting casinos will not be part of our strategy to enhance tourism in Karnataka. The Government will unequivocally dismiss such proposals,” he declared.

The new tourism policy aims to elevate Karnataka as a leading tourist destination, focusing on investment, infrastructure, heritage and technology. Minister Patil underscored the importance of collaborative efforts among the Department, public, and private sectors.

“We are not merely conducting meetings to draft policies. We are actively seeking input from stakeholders at tourist spots. This workshop serves as a platform for all voices to contribute,” he elaborated.

Minister Patil highlighted the growing trend of luxury travel and underscored showcasing Karnataka’s rich art, heritage, historical sites, monuments, coasts, beaches, forests, waterfalls and wildlife. He advocated educational tours that blend knowledge, entertainment and cultural experiences for children.

“Religious, educational, agricultural and adventure tourism must be prioritised. Development of coastal sports and regions remains a key ambition. Government is committed to comprehensive tourism development and we seek broad support for our initiatives,” he said.

Regarding heritage conservation, Minister Patil discussed ongoing efforts to protect monuments, including the adoption of 12 monuments for conservation. “Infrastructure development at world heritage sites is a priority and we urge public support in this endeavour,” he added.