Goa will soon have its own tourism policy. According to the state chief minister, Pramod Sawant, the new policy is in the process of getting finalised, supported by the existing initiatives such as homestays policy, caravan policy, agro-tourism policy, adventure and cruise tourism policy.
There is every reason for the investors to park their money in the state, said the CM even as he elaborated on the potential of cruise tourism in the state. The CM called out to the potential investors to seize the opportunity as the state’s tourism policy nears completion.
The CM promised them of a supportive environment and a commitment to ease of doing business.
The state tourism minister, Rohan Khaunte, too has been actively pushing initiatives and policies that are aimed at encouraging sustainable and immersive tourism, moving beyond the conventional beach experiences. These policies offer benefits and incentives, to support this approach and promote the fact that Goa believes in ‘quality over quantity’ tourism, Khaunte has been saying.
During his recent address at the 4th Tourism Working Group Meeting in Goa, CM Sawant also highlighted the ongoing efforts to develop infrastructure at Mormugao Port Trust Authority (MPA) to facilitate not only fish imports and exports but also tourism.
Sawant lauded the shipbuilding industry in Goa, noting that vessels manufactured in the state are not just for India but for global markets as well. To bolster the marine industry, the government, in collaboration with the central government, will establish a marine cluster, a pioneering initiative in India, according to Sawant.
To tap into India’s domestic tourism potential, MSC Cruises, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean Cruise and Costa will bring their respective vessels in India for the winter season. India’s cruise industry aims to increase the number of passengers from 0.2 million in 2016 to four million by 2041. Additionally, the sector’s revenue is projected to grow from INR 712 crore in 2016 to INR 35,500 crore by 2041.
Goa also awaits the inauguration of the National Institute of Watersports, offering diploma, degree, and master courses. Once open, it will welcome students from across India and around the world, said Sawant. Earlier in the day during the inaugural session of G20 meet, the Chief Minister emphasised Goa’s allure as a year-round tourist destination that caters to diverse travellers with its wide range of tourism offerings. He emphasised the importance of promoting inclusivity and sustainability in the travel sector.
Sawant expressed that Goa, famously known as the ‘Pearl of the Orient,’ continues to attract millions of domestic and international tourists annually.
“The state of Goa has stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, thrilling adventure sports, pristine Western Ghats, mesmerising waterfalls, serene backwaters, yoga and wellness retreats, delectable cuisine and rich culture and heritage. Goa serves as an all-season tourist destination, offering something for everyone in its coastal paradise,” he asserted.
“With this G20 meeting, I am hopeful that Goa will be greatly benefitted in the longer run,” CM added.
Speaking on the sidelines of the same event, Khaunte also acknowledged the influential role of the G20 as a platform for global cooperation and decision-making. He emphasised that the G20 presents a unique opportunity to shape the future of tourism in a manner that benefits the planet and brings about positive changes.
