The Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, unveiled the state’s renewed tourism narrative in New Delhi, shifting the focus from “sun, sand, and sea” to a regenerative, inclusive, and experience-driven model aligned with the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
In 2024, Goa recorded 10.41 million visitors, while the first half of 2025 saw 5.46 million arrivals, marking an eight per cent year-on-year growth. The state is now prioritising longer stays, higher local spending, and community engagement over volume-based growth. The Minister emphasised Goa’s move from mass to meaningful tourism, with a focus on livelihood creation and cultural preservation.
Tourism Minister, Rohan A Khaunte, stated, "Goa is no longer just a holiday; it is India’s model for responsible tourism built on People, Environment, and Economy. Every visit should leave Goa better than before. We are consciously moving from mass tourism to meaningful tourism, creating livelihoods and preserving Goa’s identity. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Goa’s tourism story is being rewritten, from quantity to quality, from consumption to conservation, and from development to regeneration.”
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah ji, Goa has launched four key tourism projects — Town Square Porvorim, PM Ekta Mall, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Digital Museum, and the Harvalem Eco-Tourism Project — symbolising the integration of heritage, innovation, and sustainability.
Goa’s international connectivity is expanding, with charter flights from Russia and Kazakhstan and increased frequency by Aeroflot, further strengthening its role as a global gateway. The new Homestay and Bed & Breakfast Scheme offers Rs 2 lakh grants for women-led units, while Yuva Tourism Clubs and a Drone Tourism Policy aim to foster responsible travel and innovation.
The state continues to celebrate its cultural vibrancy through events such as the Purple Fest, IRONMAN 70.3 Goa, IFFI, Serendipity Arts Festival, and traditional celebrations like Shigmo and Chikal Kalo. The Minister concluded by affirming that Goa’s transformation mirrors India’s progress — where tradition meets technology and nature meets nurture.
Adding to this, the Director of Tourism, Kedar Naik, stated, "The focus is on ensuring tourism-led growth benefits every Goan, from local artisans and farmers to homestay owners and transport providers. Regenerative tourism means that the destination thrives along with its people. Investments in infrastructure, technology, and cultural preservation are being made to make Goa not just attractive, but sustainable for future generations." |
