Shivamogga/DHNS: To boost its tourism sector in the district, the district administration is initiating several measures to tap its unexplored tourist destinations will the help of local organisations.
Addressing mediapersons here on Saturday, Deputy Commissioner Gurudatta Hegde said several programmes have been chalked out to celebrate World Tourism Day on September 22. Furthermore, the district administration has held meetings with district’s hotel owners, taxi owners, bus owners, YouTubers, photographers and adventure-sports centre operators to collect their opinions to scale-up its tourism image.
Besides, a proposal of Rs 120 crore has been prepared to provide necessary facilities at tourist destinations, he said and added that District In-charge Minister Madhu Bangarappa has promised to provide funds from the government.
He said, Shivamogga district, located in the heart of the state, has gained importance for its natural beauty, cultural heritage and sports and adventure. From the world-famous Jog falls to Sunset point in Agumbe, the district has many potentialities in tourism sector. Besides, Shivamogga district offers opportunities for adventure junkies with its breath-taking steep valleys and dense jungle. So far, 60 places of tourism-potentiality have been identified across the district. And to introduce many unexplored tourism places, the district administration is planning to launch its website with special focus on tourism, on September 22, he explained.
Besides, competitions in videography, photography, logo designing and slogan writing will be organised, said Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer N Hemanth.
Those interested to take part in the competitions, should register online between August 11 and 20. Registered competitors will be given identity cards.
In videography competition, the first prize carries a cash prize of Rs 40,000, Rs 30,000 for the second prize and Rs 20,000 for the third prize. In addition, a special prize of Rs 25,000 will be given to winners.
In photography and reels competition, cash prize of Rs 8,000 will be given for first prize winners, Rs. 5,000 for second and Rs 3,000 for third prize. In addition, a special prize of Rs 10,000 will also be given.
A cash prize of Rs 30,000 will be given to the best logo to reflects Shivamogga’s true essence. Also, a cash prize of Rs 5,000 will be given to best slogan that will introduce district’s tourist places.
Assistant Director of the Tourism Department Dharmappa, Shekhar Gouler and others were present.