Gurme Suresh Shetty Advocates Culturally-rich Coastal Tourism for Udupi District
Udupi, September 27, 2023: Kapu MLA Gurme Suresh Shetty emphasized the importance of developing coastal tourism in alignment with local culture, traditions, and arts to meet the preferences of tourists.
He said this while inaugurating the World Tourism Day program, jointly organized by the District Administration, Tourism Department, City Municipal Corporation, and Coastal Tourism Association of Udupi district, held at Ajjarkadu Town Hall today.
“Udupi district’s allure lies in its picturesque landscapes, pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and age-old traditions, including captivating art forms like Yakshagana, Bhoota Kola, Nagaaradhana, and various religious festivals. These elements continue to beckon tourists, enticing them to revisit with their families,” Shetty said. He emphasized that, to augment this appeal, tourism development should integrate the region’s rich heritage.
He further asserted that it is imperative for everyone, including tourists, to join hands in preserving our heritage, ensuring that tourist destinations remain eco-friendly while preserving the natural splendor of the locale. Promoting tourism also paves the way for increased local employment opportunities. MLA Shetty advocated the expansion of homestays to extend warm hospitality to tourists, emphasizing the significance of showcasing local heritage.
Deputy Commissioner Dr. K. Vidya Kumari presided over the program
“Udupi district’s unique positioning, bordered by the sea on one side and graced by the Western Ghats on the other, underscores its tourism potential. It is crucial to develop tourism in an eco-conscious manner, considering the environmental fluctuations that arise,” she said.
She reminded the audience that the Earth is meant to satisfy everyone’s needs, not limitless desires, and that it belongs to all living beings.
The DC urged collective efforts to adopt solar energy, prevent water pollution, control waste discharge into water sources, and enforce bans on plastic usage. Given the current rainfall deficit, she stressed the necessity of prudent water usage moving forward.
She also stressed that maintaining cleanliness in Udupi district is a collective responsibility to promote tourism and enthrall visitors, ensuring they yearn to return. She underscored the need for eco-friendly tourism development, soliciting cooperation from all quarters.
During the event, a book detailing 80 distinct tourist spots across the district was unveiled. Sujan Shetty, the social media manager for the tourism department, who secured the second position in the reels competition organized by the Karnataka State Tourism Department was feliciated.
As part of Tourism Day celebrations, various competitions centered around the themes of Tourism and Green Investments were arranged for college students across different taluks, with prizes awarded to the winners.
Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Prasanna H, District Superintendent of Police Dr. Arun K, District President of Coastal Tourism Association Manohar Shetty, Municipal Commissioner Rayappa, district-level officials from various departments, students from various colleges, and others were present.
Tourism Department Assistant Director Kumar C.U welcomed the gathering.
