Govt first priority is to develop tourist destination in Kundapur: DK Shivakumar

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has indeed stated that the state government’s first priority is to develop Kundapur as a major tourist destination.

He made this announcement at the valedictory ceremony of the “Kundapra Kannada Habba” (a community celebration of people from Kundapura taluk) held in Bengaluru on July 28, 2025.

DK Shivakumar was responding to a memorandum submitted by the Kundapra Kannada Pratishtana, which had appealed for the establishment of a well-equipped Kundapra Bhavana (cultural centre), a medical college in Kundapur, and an airport near Byndoor.

Dedicated Tourism Policy: He mentioned that the government is considering a dedicated tourism policy for the 340-km-long Karnataka coastline.

Tourism First, Then Airport: He stated, “Let us implement that first, and then think about the airport. Before anything else, Kundapura will be developed as a key tourist hub.”

This indicates a clear intent from the Deputy Chief Minister to focus on boosting tourism in Kundapur as a primary step for the region’s development. Kundapur, located in the Udupi district, is known for its beautiful beaches, temples, and unique culture, making it a strong candidate for tourism promotion.

The “Kundapra Kannada Habba” (Kundapra Kannada Festival) was indeed held on July 26th and 27th, 2025, in Bengaluru. The valedictory ceremony, where Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced the priority for Kundapur’s tourism development, took place on Sunday, July 27th, 2025.

The two-day event, organized by the Kundapra Kannada Pratishtana (Kundapra Kannada Foundation), was a grand celebration of the unique Kundapra Kannada dialect and culture. It featured various cultural programs, traditional performances, food stalls, and discussions. The festival was held at the Nandi Link Ground near the Nice Road Junction in Hosakerehalli, Bengaluru.

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