Yogesh K Porwar
N
amaskara!And a warm welcome to all our esteemed guests,dignitaries,stakeholders in the tourism industry
It is an honor to welcome you all to the Karnataka International Travel Expo 2025—a grand confluence of ideas, opportunities, and partnerships in the world of travel and tourism.
It gives me immense pleasure to be here at the Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE) 2025,a landmark event that reaffirms Karnataka’s position as a leading tourism destination in India and the world.
Karnataka has always been a land of breathtaking landscapes,deep-rooted heritage,vibrant culture,and limitless possibilities.
Today,as we open the doors to this prestigious event,we reaffirm our commitment to making Karnataka the most sought-after travel destination in the world.
I extend my heartfelt greetings to all the international and domestic tour operators, travel agents,industry leaders,and members of the media who have gathered here today.Your presence underscores the growing global interest in Karnataka and its vast tourism potential.
Karnataka–A Land of Diversity and Opportunity
Karnataka is a state of unparalleled diversity—where ancient heritage meets modern innovation,where the grandeur of the past blends seamlessly with the dynamism of the present.
From the majestic heritage of Hampi,Badami,and Mysuru to the serene beaches of Coastal Karnataka, from the coffee plantations of Chikkamgaluru to the wildlife-rich forests of Nagarhole, Karnataka is a traveller’s paradise.
Our state is home to 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, more than 35 national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, pristine hill stations, spiritual centres,adventure hotspots,and some of the finest wellness retreats in the country.
Karnataka is blessed with ancient temples, Jain Basadis, and Sufi shrines that reflect our diverse faiths and traditions.
The Western Ghats provide a thrilling escape, and our vibrant coastlines welcome those who seek serenity and water sports.
It is no surprise that Karnataka has consistently been ranked among the top tourist destinations in India.
Karnataka is not just a destination—it is an emotion.
It is where the past meets the future, where tradition blends with modernity, and where every visitor finds a home.
However, tourism is not just about sightseeing. It is about economic growth, employment generation, cultural exchange, and sustainable development.
It is about creating livelihoods and ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach every corner of our state, from bustling cities to remote villages.
Hospitality, Connectivity, and Infrastructure
A great travel destination needs great connectivity and hospitality.Karnataka is leading the way with:
Improved air connectivity, with Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru emerging as a key global hub.
Upgraded road and rail networks,making travel seamless and enjoyable.
A robust hospitality ecosystem, from luxurious resorts to homestays that offer authentic Karnataka experiences.
Sustainable tourism initiatives, ensuring that our natural beauty is preserved for generations to come.
Government’s Commitment to Tourism Development
As a government,we recognize the immense potential of the tourism sector in driving Karnataka’s economic progress.
That is why we have taken decisive steps to ensure that Karnataka remains a premier travel destination by investing in:
1. Infrastructure development–Better connectivity, world-class amenities, enhanced airport facilities, and improved public transport for seamless travel.
2. Skill development – Training local youth and women in hospitality and tourism services to enhance employment opportunities.
3. Sustainable tourism initiatives – Promoting eco-tourism, community-based tourism, and responsible tourism models.
4. Technology-driven solutions – Leveraging digital platforms to make Karnataka’s tourism sector more accessible and customer-friendly.
In the last 2 years, our Government has allocated over INR 440 Crore towards infrastructure, products, and human resource development in the State’s tourism sector.
We have recently launched the Karnataka Tourism Policy 2024-29 which lays the foundation for growth, innovation, and responsible tourism.
We are committed to ease of doing business for tourism entrepreneurs, promoting Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), and ensuring an enabling framework that facilitates investment in tourism infrastructure, accommodations, and new tourism products.
A budget of INR 1350 Crore has been provided for operationalizing the tourism policy and we hope to attract around INR 8000 Crore direct investment and generate 1.5 Lakh employment opportunities through this policy.
The policy provides attractive incentives for hotels, resorts, wayside amenities, wellness retreats, adventure sports, and cruise tourism and I encourage investors to come forward with their proposals that our Government shall help facilitate.
The Role of KITE 2025 in Transforming Karnataka’s Tourism Landscape
KITE 2025 is a pivotal event for our tourism sector. We are proud to organize the second edition of KITE after the inaugural event in 2019.
By bringing together nearly 90 international buyers and 15 international media from 36 countries and 230 domestic buyers and 23 domestic media from 25 states and UTs, along with hundreds of Karnataka-based tourism stakeholders, this expo will create opportunities for business partnerships, new tour packages, and enhanced global visibility.
Events like KITE play a crucial role in ensuring that Karnataka not only remains a preferred destination for travellers but also strengthens its position as a major player in the global tourism industry.
Through 14,000+ pre-scheduled B2B meetings, we are fostering direct engagement between buyers and sellers, ensuring that Karnataka’s tourism businesses can connect with the world’s leading travel companies.
To all our hosted buyers and travel professionals, I urge you to experience Karnataka firsthand.Visit our heritage sites, coastal delights, wildlife sanctuaries, hill retreats, and vibrant cultural hubs.Discover the warmth of our people, the richness of our traditions, and the flavours of our cuisine.
Karnataka is not just a destination—it is an experience that stays with you forever.
A Call to Action for Our Stakeholders
As we embark on this journey, I assure you that Karnataka will continue to lead with innovation, inclusivity, and excellence.
Whether you are here to explore, invest, or promote tourism, you are now part of Karnataka’s incredible story.
To every traveler who seeks adventure, to every soul who yearns for peace, to every mind that desires knowledge—Karnataka welcomes you with open arms.
Let us make Karnataka the pride of global tourism. Let us showcase our land of wonders to the world. Let us build a future where Karnataka shines as India’s premier travel destination.
As we look to the future,I call upon all stakeholders – tour operators, travel agents, investors, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals – to join hands with us in making Karnataka the top tourism destination in India.
• To the domestic and international buyers–I encourage you to promote Karnataka in your markets, include our destinations in your itineraries, and introduce more travellers to the wonders of our state.
• To the private sector and investors–I assure you that the Government of Karnataka is committed to providing all necessary support, incentives, and ease of business mechanisms to help tourism flourish.
KITE is your event and the next edition of KITE should be led by the private sector.
• To the people of Karnataka – I ask you to be ambassadors of our state, welcoming visitors with warmth and showcasing our culture with pride.
Once again, I thank all the organizers, tourism industry participants and stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to make KITE 2025 a grand success.
I look forward to seeing the new partnerships, initiatives, and opportunities that will emerge from this event.
I wish all the participants a fruitful and enriching experience at KITE 2025. Let us work together to transform connections into opportunities and create a brighter future for Karnataka’s tourism industry.
Namma Karnataka, Namma Hemme!
