Mangaluru: Dakshina Kannada District Congress President Harish Kumar has said Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is committed to the development of the coastal region and has announced plans to convene a cabinet meeting in Mangaluru, raising expectations of a major push for tourism and economic growth in the district.
Addressing a press conference at the District Congress office on Saturday, Harish Kumar said the Chief Minister recently chaired a high-level meeting in Bengaluru to discuss tourism development in the coastal belt. According to him, the government is keen on unlocking the region’s tourism potential while ensuring that its ecological balance and cultural identity are preserved.
Government focuses on removing hurdles to tourism projects
Harish Kumar said officials attending the Bengaluru meeting were directed to address issues related to Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms and Forest Department regulations that have slowed down several tourism projects in the coastal districts.
He added that the government is also planning to introduce a single-window clearance system to facilitate quicker approvals for tourism-related projects and investments. Such a mechanism, he said, would encourage entrepreneurs and investors to participate in developing the tourism sector in the region.
According to the Congress leader, the Chief Minister believes that the coastal districts possess immense tourism potential owing to their scenic beaches, rich biodiversity, religious destinations and vibrant cultural traditions. The government, he said, is keen to create an environment that balances development with environmental protection.
Focus on sustainable and culturally sensitive development
Harish Kumar said the Chief Minister aims to promote development without affecting the natural beauty of the coastal belt. He added that the government intends to showcase the region’s unique traditions, customs and cultural practices on an international platform.
The Congress leader said tourism development plans are being prepared in a manner that respects the local way of life and ensures that the benefits of growth reach local communities. He noted that preserving the distinct identity of the coastal region remains a priority for the government.
To encourage investment in the sector, the government is also considering subsidies for tourism-related ventures. Harish Kumar said such incentives could attract private participation and create employment opportunities, particularly for the youth.
Kambala promotion to boost cultural tourism
Highlighting efforts to promote the region’s cultural heritage, Harish Kumar said the Chief Minister has proposed organising Kambala, the traditional buffalo race of coastal Karnataka, during this year’s Mysuru Dasara celebrations.
He said the proposal reflects the government’s intention to take the region’s cultural traditions to a wider audience and enhance their tourism appeal. Kambala has emerged as one of the most recognised cultural events of coastal Karnataka and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
Harish Kumar also said that the Chief Minister has assured financial assistance of ₹5 crore to Kambala committees in response to their demand. The proposed assistance is expected to help organisers strengthen infrastructure and preserve the traditional sporting event.
Cabinet meeting expected to benefit coastal districts
The announcement of a cabinet meeting in Mangaluru has generated expectations that several important decisions related to infrastructure, tourism and economic development could be taken for the benefit of the coastal districts.
Harish Kumar said the government’s recent initiatives demonstrate the Chief Minister’s commitment to strengthening tourism and boosting the district’s economy. He expressed confidence that the proposed measures would create new opportunities for investment, employment and sustainable growth in the region.
With tourism increasingly being viewed as a major driver of economic development, stakeholders in the coastal belt are expected to closely watch the outcomes of the proposed cabinet meeting and the implementation of the government’s plans for the region.