Karnataka Targets 1.5 Lakh Hospitality Jobs, ₹8,000 Crore Investment by 2029: CM

Quick Summary:

• Karnataka’s new tourism policy aims to create 1.5 lakh jobs and attract ₹8,000 crore in investments by 2029.
• Chief Minister Siddaramaiah highlighted the state’s focus on infrastructure progress, skill enhancement, sustainability, and global marketing at the FHRAI’s 55th annual convention themed “FutureScape 2047.”
• Bengaluru hosts 15% of India’s MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, exhibitions) events.
• Initiatives include enhanced ecotourism (20% growth in Western Ghats), approvals for over 500 new homestays and mid-scale hotels in offbeat destinations, and ₹200 crore allocated for cruise/coastal tourism infrastructure.
• union Tourism Minister Gajendra singh Shekhawat proposed giving “industry status” to hospitality for access to cheaper debt financing and reinvestment benefits. He directed FHRAI to prepare detailed documentation supporting this move.
• Shekhawat announced developments under the Union Budget 2025-26:

– Identification of 50 tourist destinations under “challenge mode” with States contributing land for infrastructure development.
– A proposed national tourism policy focusing on enduring practices while aligning with India’s $4 trillion economy trajectory.

indian Opinion Analysis:

Karnataka’s enterprising targets align well with its emphasis on diversification in tourism activities across urban hubs like Bengaluru and also eco-amiable initiatives such as homestays near the Western Ghats. the opportunities created through investment-₹8,000 crore-and job creation-1.5 lakh positions-illustrate potential economic upliftment within the state while showcasing India as a competitive destination globally.

The proposal by Union Tourism Minister Gajendra singh Shekhawat further complements Karnataka’s plans by advocating industry status for hospitality-a measure that could lower financing costs and encourage reinvestments nationally.Incorporation of sustainable measures within an evolving national tourism framework also addresses long-term ecological goals alongside infrastructural expansion.

If successfully implemented across states like Karnataka embracing policy innovation, these developments may position India’s hospitality sector favorably amidst ongoing economic advancements toward becoming a $4 trillion economy.

Read more at The hindu.