Goa Certainly Needs To Market Itself Better

Think about holidays and chances are high that you would be visualising the serene beaches of Goa, a holiday destination that is in the bucket list of all leisure travellers, foreign and domestic alike. The Dollar Business caught up with Manohar Azgaonkar, the newly appointed Minister for Tourism of Goa, to understand how his Ministry plans to make Goa a round-the-year tourist destination and increase forex earnings.

- Anishaa Kumar

TDB: As Minister for Tourism of Goa, how do you plan to take the state’s tourism industry to the next level?

Manohar Azgaonkar (MA): After taking over, I have started reviewing all the work that has been undertaken till date and will be deliberating with experts and stakeholders on how to make this industry more attractive. Issues concerning the safety and security of tourists will be given top priority, followed by cleanliness and hygiene on and off the beaches. Goa attracts six million tourists every year and it is my endeavour to bring in more tourists, especially high-end tourists.

As far as generating revenue goes, first the present Goa Tourism Trade Act needs to be amended. This will end illegal and unauthorised activities, and streamline and regulate all tourism related trades. Also, the Single Window System will expedite permissions for various tourism related events and activities. We also plan to promote sports tourism as well as make Goa a shopping destination.

TDB: How far is it true that last year the sector’s revenue declined because the EDM festival, organised in December every year, was cancelled? Is the recently announced Goa Heritage Spirit Festival expected to stem the decline?

MA: I do agree that music festivals attract tourists, especially young travellers and music fans from across the globe. So, there was a decline in revenue, but it was nothing major. However, I agree that such events create employment opportunities and generate revenues. I am currently reviewing the proposal and evaluating the prospects of holding EDMs in Goa and will take a final decision after consulting all stakeholders.