Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (NJC)

Mangaluru, Jan 10: Deputy chief minister D K Shivakumar on Saturday said that despite Karnataka, especially the coastal belt, being blessed with rich natural resources, successive governments have failed to fully utilise its tourism potential, resulting in people migrating outside the state and even abroad in search of better opportunities.

Shivakumar said Karnataka has immense scenic beauty and property, but locals have not been able to benefit from it adequately. “People from Mangaluru and other parts of coastal Karnataka are moving out, while we are not making proper use of what we have here,” he said.

Referring to the younger generation, the deputy CM said today’s youth are sharp, talented and capable, and are excelling even in foreign countries. “Instead of going elsewhere, our youngsters should be supported to grow here. Our aspiration is that our footprint should remain in our own land,” he said.

He informed that the state government has formulated a new tourism policy aimed at developing tourism destinations across Karnataka. As part of this initiative, the government will hold meetings with investors, builders and businessmen to seek their opinions and suggestions.

“The government will extend full support for tourism development. We will take inputs from investors, business communities and local people, including those from coastal Karnataka, before implementing the policy,” Shivakumar said.

Highlighting the importance of local capability and initiative, he said development should happen by utilising the skills and hard work of the people themselves, ensuring growth remains within the state.

He also noted that chief minister Siddaramaiah would be visiting in the evening and said any further questions or concerns could be raised with him during the visit.