Goa unites key stakeholders to drive tourism growth

The Tourism Stakeholder Outreach Program aimed to discuss a broader conversation on aligning tourism growth with Goa’s sustainable and regenerative tourism goals.

On the occasion of World Tourism Day 2024, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, organized the Tourism Stakeholder Outreach Program at Vivanta Goa, Miramar. The event saw the presence of key stakeholders from various tourism sectors who have made significant contributions to Goa’s tourism landscape.

The program, led by the Minister for Tourism, Rohan A. Khaunte, and the Director of Tourism, Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, focused on fostering dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders. Representatives from tourism sectors such as watersports, beach shacks, waterparks, wellness tourism, restaurant associations and more were present to share insights and discuss ways to further tourism development in Goa.

During the Tourism Stakeholder Outreach Program, 5 prominent stakeholders shared their expertise on various aspects of Goa’s tourism landscape. These discussions contributed to a broader conversation on aligning tourism growth with Goa’s sustainable and regenerative tourism goals.

The event began with a welcome address by Suneel Anchipaka, where he highlighted the Department’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable and regenerative tourism.

Speaking at the event, Khaunte, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts and the introduction of new offerings in the tourism sector, stating, “We are here to back you up and provide any help you need. With our commitment to Regenerative Tourism, we are working across three key verticals – society, environment, and economy, to ensure that tourism services are inclusive and create opportunities for all. We are empowering women entrepreneurs through homestays and are committed to preserving and promoting rural tourism, allowing tourists to experience the offbeat and authentic side of Goa. Additionally, we have initiated wellness tourism with new packages tailored for international tourists, further expanding our offerings in this growing sector.”

Anchipaka added, “Goa’s tourism sector is a collective endeavor. The input and participation of key stakeholders ensure that we continue to meet the growing demands while preserving Goa’s unique identity. Today’s discussions pave the way for more coordinated and effective tourism management, especially as we focus on initiatives that enhance Goa’s offerings, such as our push towards regenerative tourism. Under this approach we have empowered many women entrepreneurs with the Homestay Policy, we have also created ample job opportunities of residents of the state hence proving that these tourism initiatives primary focus will always be for the betterment of the local communities.”

The proceedings were smoothly compared by Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager (Marketing), GTDC. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Gavin Dias, General Manager, GTDC, who appreciated the active participation of stakeholders and reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to supporting the tourism industry.