KARNATAKA ECONOMY
KARNATAKA TOURISM
B.A.Nagesh
Karnataka has a vast potential for tourism due to its vast culture and heritage. Tourism was declared as a industry in 1988 by the Govt. By declaring Tourism as a industry stress was laid on improving infrastructure at all tourist centres.
The two main agencies set up to develop Tourism are KSTDC and the Jungle Lodges and Resorts. These agencies work under the control of the Dept. of Tourism.
The Govt. of Karnataka has entered into a MOU with China and Belgium for development of tourism.
Aggressive publicity is being undertaken to promote tourism. The tourist policy of 2009-14 seeks an investment of Rs.25,000 crores and creation of 29 to 41 lakh employment opportunities. 8 to 11% of the population is dependent on tourism. It is estimated that 9% of the total foreign exchange comes from
Karnataka tourism. At the district level there is a committee headed by the Deputy commissioner for promoting local festivals focusing on the native culture.
Assistance is being provided by JNNURM for development of core areas around heritage centres. Thus
Heritage buildings in Mysore city are being conserved.
QUESTIONS.
1.What are the functions of the KSTDC and JLR limited?
2.The best awards instituted for best travel city, best weekend destination and the best luxurious train have been awarded. Name them.
3.What is Athithi?
4.Name centres of cruise tourism, golf tourism, wellness tourism and caravan tourism?
5.What is heli-tourism; name the important travel circuits.
6.Name important district utsavs.
7.What is rural tourism; name some projects associated with the same.
8.Where are the Sound and Light programmes being implemented?
9.Where is night safari proposed to be implemented?
10.Where are hospitality courses proposed ?