"We Have Failed to Utilize Our Coastline": DCM Shivakumar Calls for Separate Coastal Tourism Policy

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and state Congress President D.K. Shivakumar has acknowledged that the state has not effectively utilised its vast and scenic coastline, unlike neighbouring tourism hubs such as Goa and Kerala. Speaking in Mangaluru, he said Karnataka’s beaches are equally beautiful but lack structured development, policy support and investor-friendly mechanisms to emerge as major tourism destinations.

Highlighting the strength of the 320-kilometre-long coastline, Shivakumar pointed out that the region is rich not only in natural beauty but also in human capital. He noted that the coastal belt is a major educational hub, producing large numbers of professionals in medicine, engineering and banking, yet many migrate to other cities and countries due to limited local opportunities.

The Deputy CM revealed that discussions on a new tourism policy had already taken place in the Cabinet, but he recommended putting the existing proposal on hold. He stressed the need for a dedicated coastal tourism policy that addresses legal, environmental and regulatory challenges, especially those related to CRZ, defence and coastal development norms, before attracting large-scale investment.

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Shivakumar said the coastal region holds immense potential with its beaches, Malnad landscapes, temples, daiva shrines and Shakti centres, making it suitable for spiritual, cultural and leisure tourism. Despite these strengths, tourism growth has remained slow, a gap the government now aims to bridge through inclusive consultations with stakeholders, entrepreneurs and public representatives across party lines.

Emphasising private sector participation, he said the government would focus on providing basic infrastructure while encouraging investors to develop facilities such as quality hotels and tourism services. He also noted strong interest from non-resident Kannadigas and entrepreneurs based in cities like Mumbai and Bengaluru to invest in their native coastal districts if adequate support is assured.

Concluding his address, Shivakumar said the new tourism policy would be framed transparently, with public feedback placed in the public domain. He asserted that harnessing local youth talent and regional resources is key to sustainable development, adding that collective effort—not politics—will determine whether Karnataka’s coastline finally realises its long-overdue tourism potential.

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