Karnataka Tourism Minister H.K. Patil Rules Out Casinos, Prioritizes Heritage and Connectivity

Karnataka Tourism Minister H.K. Patil has firmly rejected proposals to introduce casinos in the state, asserting that tourism should focus on education, enlightenment, and meaningful leisure rather than gambling. In an exclusive interview with The Hindu, Patil addressed the persistent low footfall of foreign tourists despite a surge in domestic visits. He identified poor air connectivity and inadequate international promotion as primary barriers, noting that major heritage sites like Hampi lack nearby airports. To mitigate this, the state is exploring seaplane services and has revived the Golden Chariot luxury train after negotiating reduced wheeling charges with the Union government. Patil emphasized a shift in strategy away from luxury five-star facilities toward improving basic amenities at pilgrimage centers. He highlighted the Saundatti Yellamma Temple, which attracts significantly more visitors than Mysuru, as a model for developing affordable accommodations like dormitories and Dasoha Bhavanas. These initiatives aim to support students and ordinary travelers, reinforcing the government's commitment to accessible, culturally enriching tourism infrastructure over revenue-driven gambling ventures.