Suresh Heblikar-Janardhana Reddy at loggerheads

At the World Tourism Day function on 27th September, Tourism minister G. Janardhana Reddy and environmentalist Suresh Heblikar gave diametrically opposite opinions on how to attract international tourists to Karnataka.

G. Janardhana Reddy opined that the state's best option would be to attract international tourists with helicopter rides, five star accommodation and night safaris to the Bannerghatta National Park and to promote its Silicon Valley image.

Leading actor and environmentalist Suresh Heblikar differed totally with the minister's idea and views, insisting that a return to the city's roots would prove more attractive.

Heblikar, who spoke on tourism and biodiversity, said, "Foreign tourists are not looking for five star comfort and aircraft services. Instead, they just need decent accommodation and variety which we can provide in the form of bullock-cart rides and horse rides. They will cherish these moments forever. We just need to make it available to them. Tourists come to India only because of the variety in all aspects of society and lifestyle. We should focus on developing individuality and ethnic ethos, rather than opting for swanky set ups."