Goa government signs lease agreement to boost tourism development

The Department of Tourism, Goa, announced the signing of the Taj Aguada Plateau Supplemental Lease Deed, marking a significant advancement in the region's tourism infrastructure. The signing took place on August 13 at Mantralaya, Porvorim, in the presence of Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Tourism Minister Rohan A Khaunte, and other officials from both the government and The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL).

Under the agreement, IHCL is set to develop an 'International standards' wellness and cultural tourism project at the Aguada Plateau, aimed at attracting high-end tourists. This initiative reflects the commitment of both the Goa government and IHCL to enhance the state's tourism landscape while preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Sawant, Chief Minister, Chairman, Goa Tourism Board, expressed the Department of Tourism’s resolve stating “The Government of Goa has taken a big step with this Lease Deed with Indian Hotels Company Limited. All issues that were resurfaced have now been resolved and this agreement has been signed. The signing reaffirms the commitment to delivering exceptional experiences while preserving the unique charm of Goa like wellness, ayurveda, cultural and more of the Regenerative Tourism themes. We look forward to continuing this collaboration with the Indian Hotels Company Limited to further enrich the region's new tourism offerings and contribute positively to its sustainable development.”

Khaunte, Tourism Minister, commented, “The signing marks a new era for tourism in Goa. We are committed to creating a robust infrastructure that supports sustainable tourism while celebrating our state's unique heritage. This agreement with the IHCL Taj Group will enhance Goa's appeal as a global tourism hotspot, benefiting both our economy and local communities.”  

“We are thrilled to reach this pivotal Lease Deed with The Indian Hotels Company Limited Taj Group. The signing for the Taj Aguada Plateau represents a major step forward in our vision to develop Goa as a premier global tourism destination. This partnership will not only enhance our infrastructure but also create lasting economic benefits for our local communities. Our focus is to promote wellness tourism, ayurveda and Regenerative Tourism and other facets of tourism which Goa has to offer to bring more quality tourists to the state,” added, Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director Tourism & Managing Director GTDC.