Bengaluru, 29 May 2025 (Karnataka Information):
His Excellency Thaawarchand Gehlot, Hon’ble Governor of Karnataka, presented the prestigious “Atithya Rathna and Udyama Rathna” awards to distinguished personalities in the hotel industry during a grand ceremony organized by the Karnataka State Hotels Association to commemorate its 70th anniversary.
Speaking at the event, the Governor highlighted the critical role of the hospitality sector in the state’s development. “The hotel industry significantly contributes to Karnataka’s social, economic, and cultural progress. Beyond promoting tourism, it boosts the national economy through employment generation, foreign exchange earnings, and support for allied industries,” he said.
Emphasizing the labour-intensive nature of the sector, Shri Gehlot noted that the hotel industry provides both direct and indirect employment to a vast number of individuals. “Hotels support local farmers, artisans, traders, and service providers, thereby fostering regional economic growth. The industry also empowers rural and urban populations through permanent jobs, entrepreneurship, and skill development opportunities—especially for women and youth,” he added.
The Governor further stated that the hotel sector plays a pivotal role in enhancing the tourism experience by introducing visitors to local culture, cuisine, and traditions. “The hospitality sector contributes 14.8% to Karnataka’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) and provides livelihoods to over 30 lakh people. Its expansion is driving infrastructure development across the state, including roads, transport, and communication,” he remarked.
Highlighting the growth of rural tourism, Shri Gehlot praised the rise of homestays and boutique hotels in regions like Coorg and Chikmagalur. “This growth is creating self-employment opportunities for rural youth. However, with increasing demand, there is a growing need for more hotels, especially in the budget and mid-market segments. The industry must leverage the National Tourism Policy and Karnataka Tourism Policy to attract further investment,” he urged.
The Governor lauded the Karnataka State Hotels Association for its seven decades of dedicated service in uniting the hospitality sector and advocating for its interests in areas such as taxation, labor laws, and policy reforms. He commended the Association for instituting the Atithya Rathna and Udyama Rathna awards to recognize excellence in the field. “These awards are a testament to the hard work and commitment of industry leaders. I hope the awardees continue to inspire the growth and transformation of Karnataka’s hotel sector,” he said.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Pujya Dr. Nirmalanandanath Swamiji, Mahaswamiji of Adichunchunagiri Math; former Deputy Chief Ministers and MLAs; Hon’ble Dr. C.N. Ashwath Narayan; President of the Karnataka State Hotels Association, G.K. Shetty; and other eminent personalities.
