Karnataka to hold Cabinet meeting in coastal region to boost tourism development
Mangalore Today News Network
Bengaluru, Jun 20, 2026: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has announced that the state government will convene a Cabinet meeting in the coastal region soon to expedite tourism and infrastructure development. He directed officials to clear all technical hurdles before the meeting.
Chairing a review meeting on coastal tourism at Vidhana Soudha on Friday, Shivakumar said the government is committed to showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage on the global stage while generating employment and strengthening the local economy.
The Chief Minister emphasized that tourism projects along Karnataka’s coastline must be developed in an environmentally sustainable manner without adversely affecting the coastal ecosystem.
To encourage investment, he proposed introducing a single-window clearance system to streamline approvals for tourism and infrastructure projects and eliminate procedural delays.
Shivakumar instructed officials to submit a comprehensive report within 15 to 20 days detailing challenges related to Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) regulations and forest department clearances. The report should also suggest practical measures to overcome these obstacles and facilitate smoother project implementation.
He further directed departments to create a more investor-friendly atmosphere by addressing administrative bottlenecks and reducing delays faced by entrepreneurs.
During the meeting, industry representatives proposed the introduction of heli-tourism in the coastal districts as a new attraction to boost visitor numbers.
Officials informed the Chief Minister that 45 tourism projects worth ₹718.63 crore have already been approved under the Karnataka Tourism Policy. These projects are expected to create around 4,500 jobs, with further investments likely to generate additional employment opportunities.
The meeting also reviewed plans for tourism zones, large-scale tourism projects, coastal festivals, cultural events, and promotional strategies aimed at attracting more domestic and international visitors.
Actor Rishab Shetty, who participated in the discussion, urged the government to promote the region’s traditional folk arts and music. He also called for improved infrastructure for film shooting, noting that enhanced facilities would benefit the film industries of Karnataka, Kerala, and Goa.
Energy and Tourism Minister K.J. George, MLAs G.T. Devegowda and Satish Sail, Chief Secretary Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, Karnataka Tourism Development Corporation Chairman Srinivas, Additional Chief Secretary Tushar Girinath, Tourism Secretary Trilok Chandra, and other senior officials attended the meeting.