DC stresses the need to integrate agriculture with tourism

Udupi: In a country where over 70% of the population depends on agriculture, integrating agriculture with tourism is essential. Agri-tourism has been gaining popularity recently, and the administration will extend support to its stakeholders, said deputy commissioner Vidya Kumari K.
Speaking at the inauguration of a workshop on agri-tourism organised by the district administration, department of tourism, and Association for Coastal Tourism Udupi, at the Dr VS Acharya Hall in Rajatadri on Saturday, she said that over 4.5 crore tourists visited the district last year, with the number increasing year by year. She stressed the importance of ensuring tourists' safety and providing essential infrastructure and basic amenities to facilitate their visits.
Highlighting the benefits of tourism, the DC said that it creates employment opportunities and brings economic benefits to many in the district. She also stressed the need for prioritising cleanliness at tourist destinations, maintaining the local environment, and disposing of waste scientifically.
Senior civil judge and member secretary of the District Legal Services Authority, Yogesh PR, unveiled the workshop logo.
Zilla panchayat CEO Prateek Bayal spoke on the district's responsibility to enhance the tourist experience by complementing its cultural and natural beauty.
Manohar Shetty, president of the Association for Coastal Tourism, Udupi, also addressed the gathering. Progressive farmer Inna Chandrakant Rao delivered a lecture on agricultural activities and tourism.
On this occasion, a new website of the tourism department was launched. The event was attended by additional deputy commissioner (in-charge) Nagaraj and assistant director of tourism department Kumar C.