Guv Highlights South India’s Tourism Potential at Dakshin Bharath Utsav – 2024

Bengaluru, June 17: The Hon’ble Governor of Karnataka Thaawarchand Gehlot, emphasized Karnataka’s status as a premier international tourist destination at the valedictory program of Dakshin Bharath Utsav – 2024.
The event, organized by the Federation of Karnataka Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FKCCI) in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, showcased the state’s diverse attractions.

Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot noted, “Karnataka, known as ‘One State, Many Worlds,’ boasts numerous international tourist destinations, including World Heritage Sites. Hampi, renowned for its historical and religious significance, and Udupi Sri Krishna Math, often called the Mathura of South India, are just a few examples. Karnataka has the second highest number of protected monuments in India. The tourism sector significantly contributes over 15% to the state’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) and generates substantial employment opportunities.”

Highlighting South India’s tourism assets, the Governor added, “South India offers a rich tapestry of attractions, from ancient temples to modern cities, and from majestic mountain ranges to serene beaches. Kerala, known as ‘God’s Country,’ is famed for its backwaters and beaches. Tamil Nadu’s Kancheepuram, Trichy, and Meenakshi Temples, along with Rameswaram and Thanjavur, draw countless visitors. Hyderabad’s palaces and Charminar are major tourist magnets in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Additionally, hill stations like Alleppey, Munnar, Ooty, and Kodagu are popular for their lush greenery.”

Governor Gehlot praised the central government’s initiatives to bolster tourism, noting, “South India has immense potential to attract tourism investments. I commend the Government of Karnataka for its efforts to promote tourism and FKCCI for its role in realizing the collective aspirations of the tourism sector.”

Concluding his address, the Governor lauded the successful organization of South India Utsav-2024, stating, “This festival reflects the strength and capability of the Government of India to achieve the vision of Incredible India. The tourism sector is vital to the Indian economy, contributing significantly to economic development and the preservation of Indian culture and traditions.”

The event saw the participation of Law and Parliamentary Affairs and Tourism Minister HK Patil, Rajya Sabha Member Lehar Singh Siroya, FKCCI President Ramesh Chandra Lahoti, Vice Presidents M.G. Balakrishna, Smt. Uma Reddy, and other dignitaries.

Governor Gehlot also acknowledged FKCCI’s rich history, founded by Bharat Ratna Sir M. Visvesvaraya, celebrating 106 years of leadership in industry, trade, and services in Karnataka. He extended his best wishes for the continued success of Dakshina Bharat Utsav-2024 and the collaborative efforts of FKCCI and the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka.

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