Karnataka open for investment in tourism sector – full support from government for private investors: Minister K.J. George

Invitation to domestic and foreign investors for IITM-2026
Participation of over 850 tourism representatives, 16 states and over 26 foreign organizations
Government’s commitment to simple policies, single window approvals and an investment-friendly environment

Bengaluru, July 23, (Karnataka News):
Energy and Tourism Minister K.J. George said that the government is further simplifying tourism policies to make Karnataka an investment-friendly tourism state in the country and will provide full support to private investors.
He was speaking at the inauguration of the three-day 26th Indian International Travel Mart (IITM–2026) that began in the city.
This time, over 850 tourism sector representatives, tourism organizations from 16 states and over 26 foreign tourism organizations are participating in IITM, and large-scale B2B (Business-to-Business) meetings are being held between the domestic and global tourism sectors. Such forums will introduce Karnataka’s tourism potential to the world and pave the way for new investment and business partnerships, the Minister said.
The development of the tourism sector in Karnataka requires more private investment. For this, the government is further simplifying tourism policies. A conducive environment is being created for investors through subsidies, a single window sanction system and various incentives. Whether you want to build a resort, set up an adventure sports facility or intend to start a cruise service, the government will stand with you. It is our commitment to provide an opportunity to invest and do business in Karnataka without unnecessary administrative hurdles, he said.
Karnataka is a state with diverse tourism resources including heritage, nature, wildlife, coastal, spiritual, wellness and adventure tourism. The government is continuously organizing roadshows, travel marts and investor conferences at the national and international levels to effectively introduce this potential in the global market, the Minister said.
He said that the government is giving priority to infrastructure development, improvement of connectivity, quality services for tourists and creation of an investment-friendly environment in the tourism sector, and is working towards further strengthening the concept of ‘Brand Karnataka’ and ‘One State, Many Worlds’.
Collaboration between the government and the private sector is a key force in Karnataka’s tourism growth, and the Minister called on investors, tourism entrepreneurs, and travel agencies to become partners in the state’s growth.
Dr Ram Prasat Manohar, Secretary, Department of Tourism, said, “Tourism is not just a sector that increases the number of tourists; it is a major driver of employment, investment and local economic development. Therefore, our goal is to make Karnataka the most attractive tourism destination in the country by building a strong partnership between investors, the tourism industry and the government.”
KSTDC Managing Director Shivaprasad P.R., Jungle Lodge and Resorts Managing Director Shivaram Babu, Karnataka Tourism Society President K. Shyamaraju and other dignitaries from the tourism sector were present at the event.