Hinterland Tourism Policy to be out soon: Tourism Minister Khaunte

Goa Khabar : The government is focusing on the balanced development of the tourism sector while promoting hinterland tourism, informed Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte today in the Goa Legislative Assembly. He also announced that ₹10 crore has been sanctioned for the tourism development of Mayem and its surrounding areas under the Destination Challenge mode.

The Minister addressed a starred question tabled by MLA Bicholim, Dr. Chandrakant Shetye during question hour in Goa assembly, informing that the Hinterland Tourism Policy is currently in development, adopting a holistic approach. Regions such as Sattari, Pernem, Bicholim, Canacona, Sanguem, and Sanvordem have been identified for Hinterland Tourism. This initiative aims to enhance tourism in these areas by improving infrastructure and ensuring sustainable tourism practices.

The Minister proudly revealed that Mayem was selected as the winner of the ‘Destination Challenge’ for hinterland tourism. A grant of ₹10 crore has been sanctioned for the development and beautification of Mayem and its surrounding areas. In response to the MLA’s queries, the Minister confirmed that a scheme is being devised for the beautification of temples in the hinterland regions. The parameters of this scheme are being evaluated to ensure alignment with budgetary constraints and community needs.

Additionally, the Minister replied to a series of supplementary questions raised by Dr. Shetye during discussion in his question with the updated tourism statistics, highlighting that nearly 4.52 lakh foreign tourists and over 80 lakh domestic tourists visited Goa last year. These figures reflect the state’s growing popularity as a tourist destination and the potential for further growth in hinterland tourism.

To support the promotion of hinterland tourism, the implementation of the Homestay and Caravan Policy encourages local involvement in tourism by offering authentic and immersive experiences for visitors, thereby boosting the local economy.
Dr. Shetye highlighted that Bicholim taluka boasts several attractions, including the Maruti Temple, the state’s second-largest Shiva Lingam, Pandava-era caves, Amthane Dam, and the renowned Gade festival. He urged the tourism department to take these elements into account to enhance rural tourism.

Minister Khaunte explained that the Goa government is actively working on developing the necessary facilities for rural tourism expansion, utilizing various central government schemes. When Opposition Leader MLA Yuri Alemao asked if specific locations for hinterland tourism had been designated, Khaunte responded that the current priority is on establishing essential facilities.