Karnataka Tourism Society Honors Industry Leaders and Catalysts for Success at CONNECT 2026 Bengaluru, Highlighting Their Role in Boosting Karnataka’s Global Standing

The Karnataka Tourism Society (KTS), in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, hosted CONNECT 2026 Bengaluru, an influential event that brought together key players from the tourism and hospitality sectors. The event was a platform to not only encourage dialogue and collaboration but also to recognize the vital contributions of industry leaders and catalysts. Special recognition was given to those who played an instrumental role in the success of the Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE 2025), further solidifying Karnataka’s position on the global tourism map. By honoring these individuals, the event underscored their significant impact in advancing the state’s tourism sector and boosting its international standing.

The Karnataka Tourism Society (KTS), in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Government of Karnataka, successfully organised CONNECT – 2026 Bengaluru, a distinguished platform aimed at encouraging dialogue, reinforcing collaborations, and generating actionable strategies to advance the tourism and hospitality sector in Karnataka.

CONNECT 2026 took the form of an engaging session, gathering travel, tourism, and hospitality professionals from Bengaluru Urban, Bengaluru Rural, Bengaluru South (Ramanagara), Kolar, Chikkaballapura, and Tumakuru districts. A special segment also honoured the contributors to the success of the Karnataka International Travel Expo (KITE 2025), recognising their vital role in boosting Karnataka’s presence on the global tourism map.

The event was attended by notable dignitaries including:

• Shri. H.K. Patil, Hon’ble Minister for Law, Justice, Human Rights, Parliamentary Affairs & Legislation, and Tourism
• Shri. K.V. Thrilok Chandra, IAS, Secretary to the Tourism Department, Government of Karnataka
• Shri. Prashant Kumar Mishra, IAS, Managing Director, Karnataka State Tourism Development Corporation Ltd.
• Shri. Prashant Shankhinamath, IFS, Managing Director, Jungle Lodges & Resorts Ltd.

In addition to the government officials, KTS office bearers and key stakeholders from the tourism and hospitality sectors across the involved districts were present, highlighting the event’s collective and cooperative approach towards advancing Karnataka’s tourism industry.

Mr. K. Syama Raju, President of KTS in his welcome address said, “CONNECT is
about building bridges—between destinations and communities, between government
and industry, and between tradition and innovation. Our collective mission is to
showcase Karnataka’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty to the world, while
creating opportunities that empower local communities and strengthen the tourism
ecosystem.”
Shri. K.V. Thrilok Chandra, IAS, Secretary to the Tourism Department, Govt. of
Karnataka addressing the gathering said, “Karnataka offers immense opportunities for
investors and stakeholders across eco-tourism, heritage conservation, adventure
tourism, and hospitality infrastructure. Through our Tourism Policy 2024–29, we are
committed to creating a robust ecosystem that balances growth with sustainability, while
ensuring community participation and global visibility for Karnataka as ‘One State, Many
Worlds’. The policy is anchored on nine strategic pillars—ranging from infrastructure
development and skill training to sustainable tourism and digital initiatives. We have
identified 25 tourism themes and 44 priority projects, backed by subsidies, concessions,
and incentives to encourage private participation. Our goal is to attract over ₹7,800
crore in direct investments, create 1.5 lakh jobs, and showcase Karnataka in at least 50
global tourism events. By strengthening PPP models and institutional mechanisms, we

aim to transform Karnataka into one of the top three states for

domestic tourism and among the top five for foreign tourist visits by 2030.”
Mr. S. Mahalingaiah, Vice President of KTS said, “Over the past year, KTS has worked
tirelessly to strengthen Karnataka’s visibility through B2B roadshows across
Coimbatore, Cochin, Madurai, Salem, Indore, Nagpur, Aurangabad, Nashik, and Pune.
These initiatives connected over 1,200 buyers with 70+ stakeholders, creating new
linkages across regions. Equally significant was the success of KITE 2025,
organised in February 2025, which brought together 130 exhibitors, 100
international buyers, 250 domestic buyers, and extensive coverage by
international and national media. At CONNECT 2026, we were pleased to felicitate
the exhibitors, members, and officials whose tireless contributions made KITE
2025 a landmark event. Looking ahead, our focus is on expanding outreach through
programs like Discover Bidar, Explore Kalyana Karnataka, and upcoming roadshows in
Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Gujarat. These efforts will ensure Karnataka’s tourism
sector continues to grow inclusively and sustainably.”

Hon’ble Tourism Minister, Shri H.K. Patil, while delivering the keynote address said,
“Karnataka as a beautiful destination has much to offer. The recent discovery of the
Lakundi gold treasure reminds us that Lakkundi was once a major economic and
cultural center under the Kalyana Chalukyas, renowned for its 150 temples and
inscriptions. Many such places across Karnataka stand as living proof of the state’s rich
heritage. For the inclusive development of tourism, all stakeholders must join hands.
While the Government can initiate and facilitate a few key measures, it is through the
collective strength and creativity of stakeholders that we can multiply these efforts
manifold. That is why we are pushing forward the PPP model—so that private
enterprise, community participation, and government support can converge to unlock
Karnataka’s full tourism potential.”

At CONNECT 2026 Bengaluru, the Karnataka Tourism Society honored industry leaders for their pivotal role in advancing the state’s tourism sector and enhancing Karnataka’s global presence, particularly through the success of KITE 2025.

CONNECT – 2026 Bengaluru wrapped up with a powerful message urging stakeholders to collaborate, deepen industry relationships, and present Karnataka’s vibrant culture and scenic landscapes to a global audience. The recognition ceremony honoring KITE 2025 contributors served as a meaningful testament to the strong alliance between the government and the tourism industry, highlighting their united vision to position Karnataka as a leading destination on the world tourism map.

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