Yaduveer seeks Centre’s nod to include Mysuru in global tourism mission

With the objective of developing Mysuru into a world-class tourism destination, Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, Mysuru-Kodagu MP, met Union Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and submitted a proposal seeking the city’s inclusion under the National Mission for the Development of 50 Globally Competitive Tourist Destinations in India, announced in the Union Budget 2025-26.

During the meeting, Mr. Wadiyar highlighted Mysuru’s unique cultural, historical, spiritual, and tourism significance and told the Union Minister that the city possesses all the attributes and potential required to emerge as a leading global tourism destination. He urged the Centre to favourably consider Mysuru’s proposal under the national mission.

Speaking on the occasion, the MP said Mysuru is renowned across the world for its rich heritage, royal legacy, and cultural traditions. He noted that the Mysore Palace, one of India’s most visited heritage monuments; the globally acclaimed Mysuru Dasara festival, which has received UNESCO recognition for its cultural significance; Mysuru’s unique position as a centre for yoga and wellness; its traditional handicrafts, vibrant art, and cultural heritage; and its road, rail, and air connectivity together provide a strong foundation for transforming the city into a world-class tourism destination.

He said Mysuru, which attracts lakhs of domestic and international tourists every year, is one of India’s premier heritage cities. Inclusion under the national mission, he added, would facilitate the development of tourism infrastructure, improve visitor amenities, conserve heritage sites, promote sustainable tourism, and create greater opportunities to attract both public and private investment.

Mr. Wadiyar said the initiative would generate employment, provide a major boost to local artists and artisans, strengthen small businesses and the hospitality sector, and improve the livelihoods of thousands of families dependent on tourism.

He said developing Mysuru into a globally recognised tourism destination, in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, would be a significant step.

Mr. Wadiyar also urged the Tourism Department in Karnataka to prepare and submit a comprehensive and competitive proposal to the Centre highlighting Mysuru’s strengths, unique characteristics, and tourism potential.

Describing his meeting with the Union Tourism Minister as fruitful, Mr. Wadiyar expressed confidence that the Centre would positively consider Mysuru’s proposal and extend the benefits of the national mission to the city. He said the initiative would unlock Mysuru’s immense tourism potential and further strengthen the city’s standing as a globally recognised tourism destination.