Jaipur: Over the past couple of decades, coaching centres have been instrumental in driving the economy of Kota. However, with incidents of student suicides not abating, the govt wants to de-risk and diversify it, with tourism being given priority.Earlier this week, tourism minister Diya Kumari announced Rs 1 crore financial assistance to an industry body to bring travel agents and tour operators from across the country to Kota and promote destinations in the Hadauti region, which is rich in ancient forts, palaces, lakes, and waterfalls.The minister has been vocal in promoting tourism in lesser-known destinations by holding roadshows and tourism industry events in every district. In fact, the focus on Kota, the leading district in the Hadauti region, aligns well with its improved infrastructure.Hussain Khan, president of the Hotel Federation of Rajasthan (HFR), which is organising the event in January 2026, said, “Kota’s expansion as an economic hub of Hadauti owes it to the thriving coaching centres. There is nothing much besides coaching centres. After the incidents of student suicides and negative publicity nationally, the govt is actively thinking of a second line of economic activities.”Because of the coaching centres, not only do lakhs of students reside in the city, but their parents also visit them. “Students and their parents visiting the city can be considered a captive market for tourism. But the opportunities are immense. The hotel industry has come up in a big way. Roads and transport facilities are very tourist-friendly. That’s why the city has everything to become a leading tourist hub in the state,” added Khan.With the promotion of Kota, neglected landmarks like the Gragron Fort in Jhalawar, Ramgarh Crater in Baran, and Buddhist caves at Kolvi are also expected to draw attention for development. In fact, Kota itself, with its developed Chambal riverfront, will pivot the momentum in the region, added Khan.
Govt to diversify Kota’s economy with focus on tourism | Jaipur News
