By The Karnataka Tourism Forum (KTF), a leading body representing the interests of the travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors in the state, has announced its new set of office bearers for the 2025–27 term. With an emphasis on sustainable practices, inclusive growth, and positioning Karnataka as a premier destination on the global tourism map, the newly elected team brings a dynamic blend of industry experience and forward-looking vision.
Mr. Patrick George of Prakruthi Holidays has taken charge as President of the Forum. Expressing gratitude for the responsibility entrusted to him, he stated, “I am deeply honoured to have been elected President of the Karnataka Tourism Forum. This is a pivotal time for our industry, and I look forward to working closely with our members, government bodies, and stakeholders to position Karnataka as a leading year-round tourism destination. Together, we aim to drive growth, foster innovation, and enhance the global visibility of our diverse offerings—from heritage and nature to wellness and adventure.”
Supporting him in this mission, Mr. Vaibhav D Kamat of Kamat Eco-Tours & Jungle Holidays has been elected Vice President. He remarked, “It is a privilege to serve as Vice-President of the Karnataka Tourism Forum. I believe this platform plays a vital role in bringing together tourism professionals and policymakers to shape the future of tourism in our state. My focus will be on strengthening partnerships, supporting tourism entrepreneurs, and promoting Karnataka’s hidden gems through inclusive and responsible tourism practices.”
The new team also includes Mr. Ganesh Basavaraj of Rainforest Retreats Pvt. Ltd. as Secretary, Ms. Vinutha Kiran of Travel Lounge Inc as Joint Secretary, and Mr. Vinay KN of Cruise and Travel Pvt. Ltd. as Treasurer. Alongside the core office bearers, the Forum’s new core committee includes Mr. SN Krishna Chidambara (Sri Sathya Sai Tourists), Mr. Prashanth BS (Safe Wheels Tours and Travels), Mr. Arvind (Crimson Holidays LLP), Mr. Prashanth Shenoy (Dravidian Trails Destination Management), Mr. Dinesh SD (Amazing India Travelxp), Mr. Sudhir KR (Vizi Tours), and Mr. Ramesh Chandran (Soukhya Holidays).
The Karnataka Tourism Forum has played a crucial role over the years in strengthening the tourism ecosystem through trade events, capacity-building initiatives, and active engagement between the private sector and government. With this new leadership, the Forum is poised to further amplify its efforts by expanding outreach initiatives, developing thematic tourism circuits, supporting sustainable travel practices, and promoting community-based tourism. It aims to work in close partnership with Karnataka Tourism and allied industry bodies to unlock fresh opportunities and establish a more vibrant, inclusive, and responsible tourism landscape for the state.
