Goa's Department of Tourism hosts Stakeholder Outreach Program on World Tourism Day

The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, organised a Tourism Stakeholder Outreach Program at Vivanta Goa, Miramar, in celebration of World Tourism Day 2024. The event brought together key players from various tourism sectors to discuss their contributions and explore collaborative opportunities for enhancing tourism in Goa.

Led by Minister for Tourism Rohan A Khaunte and Director of Tourism Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, the programme featured discussions on wellness tourism, watersports, beach policies, and the hospitality sector. Notable speakers included Richa Sartarkar from Oorja Wellness Centre, Ramapati Pitre from Goa Aqua World, and representatives from the Water Sports Association and Shack Owners’ Welfare Association, who shared insights on current trends and future potential.

The event emphasised the importance of sustainable and regenerative tourism, with a commitment from the government to support innovative initiatives that align with Goa's environmental and cultural values

Speaking at the event, Khaunte, emphasised 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.” 

The outreach programme served as a platform for stakeholders to address challenges, propose solutions, and work alongside the Department of Tourism to develop a strategy that prioritises sustainable growth. 

Director of Tourism, Anchipaka, added, “Goa’s tourism sector is a collective endeavour. 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 event concluded with expressions of gratitude for the participants' contributions to Goa's tourism landscape, reinforcing the government's ongoing commitment to fostering a vibrant tourism industry.