At a recent tourism conference, HK Patil from Karnataka in India said no to using casinos to boost tourism.
Japan is building its first integrated resort and casino in Osaka to attract more international tourists. Thai lawmakers are also thinking about setting up up to eight resorts for the same reason. However, Karnataka, a tech hub in India, will not follow this trend if Tourism Minister HK Patil has his way.
“Permitting casinos will not be part of our strategy to enhance tourism in Karnataka,” Patil said at a July 4 workshop on tourism policy through 2029.
He mentioned Goa, which has 16 land-based and floating casinos. The casino industry there helped fill the gap left by a closed mining industry and has reportedly earned the government Rs 1,227 crore (£114.5 million, $146.7 million, €134.22 million) since 2015.
While the new money from casinos is a benefit, they have also changed India’s west-coast resort area in negative ways. Once a popular spot for hippie travelers, it is now known for problems like drugs and prostitution.
Casinos became a big draw
This change might be permanent. Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Kaunte has said, “Casinos aren’t needed for tourism in the state, but right now, tourism depends on them.”
Patil, on the other hand, wants to emphasise arts and culture, heritage and history, and Karnataka’s natural splendours to attract more visitors.
“Religious, educational, agricultural and adventure tourism must be prioritised,” he said. “Infrastructure development at world heritage sites is a priority and we urge public support in this endeavour.”
Gaming in India’s Goa model is a nonstarter. “The government will unequivocally dismiss such proposals,” said Patil. “Casinos will not be allowed.”