Department of Tourism, Goa, and St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa, Host National-Level Photography Competition on Regenerative Tourism

The competition aimed to highlight the principles of regenerative tourism by encouraging participants to capture the essence of Goa that goes beyond its iconic beaches.

 Through photographs, the event sought to showcase Goa’s diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and community-driven efforts that align with the state’s vision of sustainable tourism development. The panel of judges included Shri. Sanjeev Sardesai, a hands-on historian, and Shri. Rohan Fernandes, a photographer/videographer at Gomantak Times.

Participants from across the country demonstrated their creativity by submitting stunning images that captured Goa’s natural beauty, rich traditions, and unique lifestyle. The competition saw an overwhelming response, reflecting a growing interest in portraying Goa’s unexplored territories and its focus on eco-conscious travel experiences.

 The Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, inaugurated the exhibition of images with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Minister Tourism, along with Fr. Antonio Salema (Administrator of St. Xavier’s College), Smt. Ursula Barreto (Principal), and Shri Lisvan Rodrigues (Assistant Professor, Department of Mass Communication & Journalism), felicitated the winners of the photography competition.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte speaking at the event, emphasized the need to embrace regenerative tourism practices for the future of Goa’s tourism industry. “Regenerative tourism is the way forward for Goa, where we go beyond sustaining to actively revitalize our environment and communities. Goa has always been a destination known for its beaches, but now we have shifted our focus towards exploring offbeat experiences. Regenerative Tourism ensures that the next generation enjoys the same beauty of Goa while promoting tourism that conserves nature. Initiatives like ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ and regenerative tourism focus on highlighting our unique culinary heritage, festivals, traditions, and culture. The involvement of the youth, through platforms like the Yuva Tourism Clubs, helps us engage with new ideas and strengthen our efforts to promote Goa as a diversified tourism destination.” The minister further complimented St. Xavier College for promoting such an event at a national level.

In the School / Higher Secondary category, the winners were as follows: 1st place was awarded to Mohammad Janu Mohd J Khan, followed by 2nd place winner Nirvana Ahluwalia, and 3rd place winner Lubna Milburuga Mendonca. 4th place went to Jason Fernandes, 5th place to Aliza Rebello, and 6th place to Abhishek Ingalge. In the College category, 1st place was secured by Yuvraj Seth, with 2nd place going to Asmi Santosh and 3rd place to Mohit Patil. Shubert Angel Borges took 4th place, Tanushree Pednekar earned 5th place, and Siddhanth Fogueri finished in 6th place.

Lisvan Rodrigues – Assistant Professor Department of Mass Communication & Journalism, representing the organizing team, gave the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to every participant, the Department of Tourism, and the faculty members for their relentless efforts in making the event a success. He also emphasized the Minister’s vision towards promoting Regenerative Tourism and acknowledged the dedication of all those who contributed to this meaningful initiative.

The Department of Tourism, continues to drive its mission of creating a tourism ecosystem that fosters ecological balance, supports local communities, and ensures long-term benefits for the state. Events like these align with the broader goal of transitioning to regenerative tourism, making Goa a leading destination for conscious travelers.