Emphasising the need to fully utilise the commercial potential of tourism in Karnataka, Additional Chief Secretary to the Department of Tourism, government of Karnataka, Arvind Jadhav said that the department plans to encourage involvement of the private sector in tourism through the Karnataka Tourism Policy, 2014 -2019; which would allow subsidies for various tourism promoting enterprises.
Speaking at an event organised by industry body, Federation of Karnataka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI), Jadhav said, “The main aim of this policy is to encourage the youth to use their creativity and make Bangalore more than just a business hub.” He went on to say that involvement of the private sector to promote art and craft would accelerate the souvenir market which in turn would propel tourism“The souvenir market is not being exploited at all in the state.
To do so, we must revive traditional arts and crafts,” he said. Jadhav went on to say that tourism should be used to create jobs for people in tier 2 and 3 cities. “My main aim is to ensure that tourist activities in the state create jobs or earn money. Individuals who are interested to invest in the sector must have a clear revenue model,” he said.
Jadhav also emphasised the importance of aerial connectivity to increase foreign tourism in the state. “Another aspect we should concentrate on is the inflow of foreign tourists as they are a major source of revenue.” On the topic of last mile connectivity, Jadhav said, “Although it is a concern, the main concern of the department is the quality of hospitality on offer in these tourist locations. People don’t mind a difficult journey as long as the destination allows them to relax and unwind.”