Department of Tourism Hosts Successful Tourism Stakeholder Outreach Program on World Tourism Day 2024

The program, led by the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri. Rohan A. Khaunte, and the Director of Tourism, Shri. 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, five prominent stakeholders shared their expertise on various aspects of Goa’s tourism landscape. Smt. Richa Sartarkar, from Oorja Wellness Centre, addressed the growing potential of wellness and medical tourism in Goa. Shri. Ramapati Pitre, Partner at Goa Aqua World Sankhali, focused on developments within the tourism sector. Mr. Paul Silvera, representing the Water Sports Association, Calangute, provided insights on the expansion and future of watersports in Goa. Mr. Cruz Cardozo, President of the Shack Owners’ Welfare Association, discussed the new shack policy and its implications for beach tourism. Lastly, Mr. Rajesh Salgaonkar, from the National Restaurant Association and Small Restaurants Association, shared his perspective on the hospitality industry and its role in enhancing Goa’s tourism offerings. 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 Shri. Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director of Tourism, where he set the tone for the day’s proceedings by emphasizing the need for collaboration and innovation in Goa’s tourism sector. He highlighted the Department’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable and regenerative tourism and reiterated the government’s support for emerging tourism initiatives.

A token of appreciation was presented to various associations and stakeholders for their contributions to Goa’s tourism sector. The event also featured a celebratory cake-cutting ceremony with the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri. Rohan A. Khaunte, Director of Tourism, Shri. Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, and representatives from the stakeholders’ associations. Shri. Ramapati Pitre discussed the potential of eco-farm activities and waterpark facilities, particularly in North Goa, emphasizing the idea of creating a dedicated tourism circuit to boost visitor inflow to the region. Along with Pele Francis and other stakeholders, he shared his insights on the success of Goa’s tourism initiatives, highlighting the strong government support and the significant impact of collaborative efforts in enhancing the state’s tourism landscape. All speakers expressed their appreciation for the Tourism Minister’s unwavering support to the industry, acknowledging his role in driving positive change.

On the sidelines of World Tourism Day, the Tourism Stakeholder Outreach Program also sought to address sector-specific needs and opportunities. This initiative aligns with the Shri. Khaunte’s broader vision to promote sustainable and regenerative tourism, ensuring that Goa’s tourism growth remains both environmentally responsible and culturally enriching. Discussions centered around how to advance Goa’s tourism offerings while maintaining balance with the state’s natural beauty and unique heritage. Moreover, the government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting new and innovative tourism initiatives that contribute to a vibrant, forward-looking industry.

Speaking at the event, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri. Rohan A. 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. This event is for you, and you are the true ambassadors of tourism. You deserve recognition for the outstanding work you are doing.”

Director of Tourism, Shri. Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, 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 Tourism Stakeholder Outreach Program provided a platform for key stakeholders to address current challenges, propose solutions, and collaborate with the Department of Tourism to shape a tourism strategy that reflects the state’s sustainable goals. The event reinforced the government’s commitment to not only boosting traditional tourism sectors but also promoting new offerings, including regenerative tourism, backed by comprehensive government support.

By involving all stakeholders, the Department of Tourism aims to strengthen the overall quality of tourism services and offerings, ensuring that Goa remains a competitive, eco-conscious, and culturally authentic global destination.

The proceedings were smoothly compared by Mr. Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager (Marketing), GTDC, who ensured seamless transitions between the various sections of the program. He also engaged the audience with insightful anecdotes related to the evolving tourism industry in Goa.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Gavin Dias, General Manager, GTDC, who appreciated the active participation of stakeholders and reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to supporting the tourism industry through continuous engagement and collaboration.