Category Archives: States

Karnataka is set to boost tourism by introducing sea planes to key destinations like Hampi and KRS. Highlighting their commitment, HK Patil, Tourism Minister, Karnataka, said that the government also plans a multi-lingual website and 3D virtual tours of heritage sites, making the state’s cultural and historical landmarks more accessible to tourists worldwide.

Highlighting the state’s potential as a leading hub for adventure sports, Pravati Parida, Deputy Chief Minister, Odisha revealed that the state government is laying the groundwork for the state’s tourism industry, aiming to make it a premier destination for adventure and exploration over the next 50 years. “We are committed to developing these sites, not just for today, but for future generations,” she said.

Inaugurating the second edition of Karnataka International Travel Expo 2025 in Bengaluru, Siddaramaiah, Chief Minister, Karnataka unveiled the Tourism Policy 2025-2029 and said, “With a budget of ₹1,350 crore, the state tourism policy will help in attracting around ₹8,000 crore as direct investment and generate employment opportunities to 1.5 lakh people in next four years.”

The Global Investors Summit (GIS) in Bhopal is set to open new avenues for tourism investment in Madhya Pradesh. The state’s new Tourism and Film Tourism Policies provide substantial incentives to investors. A streamlined “single-window system” ensures quick, transparent approvals for film shooting. The policy also includes grants for regional films in dialects like Malvi and Bundelkhandi, along with special incentives for children’s cinema and women-centric films. Additional grants are available for films based on the state’s cultural and historical legacy, as well as independent short films.

Suman Billa, Additional Secretary for Tourism, emphasised that the tourism supply side is not growing due to unfavorable financial conditions. He urges tourism stakeholders to actively communicate their concerns to policymakers. He also emphasises that industry participation is crucial to shaping policies that drive growth. Encouraging states to adopt an entrepreneurial approach, he stressed the need for tourism to contribute beyond its current 5.04% of GDP.

According to Skyscanner’s Travel Trends 2025 Report, cost remains a key factor for value-conscious Indians, with 62% stating that flight prices play a crucial role in their decision-making process. To address this, Skyscanner has introduced a new feature that offers users options to secure the best deals.

Highlighting the uniqueness of Odisha, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Minister of Tourism & Culture, GoI, says, “Odisha government must provide content to display at national tourism forums. We must establish the state’s flavours in the global market. Enhancing the tourism experience, expanding tourism product offerings, and developing holistic infrastructure are key to driving growth.”

Rohan Khaunte, Tourism Minister, said, “Through our participation at ITB Berlin, we aim to forge meaningful partnerships and position Goa as a leading global tourism destination that prioritises responsible and conscious travel. Continuing its pitch of ‘Goa beyond beaches’, he added that the state is more than just a beach destination, it offers a deeper connection with nature and local communities.”

Addressing the Madhya Pradesh Global Investor Summit in Bhopal, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that three sectors – textiles, tourism and technology- are “crucial” for India’s development as they will create more new jobs. He added that to boost the manufacturing sector, the government is strengthening local supply chains and promoting self-reliance, especially for MSMEs.

VisitBritain along with the British High Commission in Mumbai celebrated King’s birthday party. The event hosted 500 stakeholders and travel trade from VisitBritain, who experienced the best of the UK. The event highlighted themes of innovation, featuring visual assets from new ‘Starring Great Britain’ campaign.