Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, Mar 30: The process of creating an exclusive 'Vision Group' for achieving integrated development of the state’s coast, and to encourage economic and commercial activities there has been set into motion.

Minister Jagadish Shettar, has responded positively to the plea made by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry in this regard. Under his instructions, a proposal is being prepared by the commerce and industries department. If the government gives its nod, 'Coastal Development Vision Group' will be formed, this has given rise to the hope that the wind of development will blow strongly in coastal belt of Karnataka.

At a programme organized recently by FICCI at Bengaluru, the issue of development of coast had been discussed. Thereafter, the body wrote to the minister, requesting for the formation the vision group. A recommendation to nominate16 people to the group including state unit president of FICCI Ullas Kamath, has been made. Leaders of medical education, industry, Fisheries College, small scale industries, coastal food, fishing, tourism, hospitality, real estate, FMCG etc are in the list.

The major goal of the vision group would be laying emphasis on fishing and tourism, encouraging religious, aqua tourism and cruise facilities, drawing up supplemental schemes to encourage banking and education sectors.

Minister Jagadish Shettar, said that as per discussions made on the issue, it has been decided to form a vision group for coastal Karnataka. The group will study about schemes and programmes needed to develop coastal area of Karnataka, he added.