Goa to Receive Rs 350 Crore Investment in Tourism Development

Goa is on the cusp of a significant transformation within its tourism industry, with development projects valued at Rs 350 crore currently in progress, Tourism Minister Rohan A Khaunte announced in the State Legislative Assembly today. Responding to questions on the Department of Tourism’s budget demands, the Minister outlined a comprehensive strategic vision aimed at enhancing infrastructure, expanding international connectivity, and promoting Goa beyond its famous beaches.

Minister Khaunte highlighted that the government is adopting a long-term approach, acknowledging that substantial results will take time, but positive indicators are already evident. He revealed that from January to June 2025, Goa welcomed 5.45 million tourists — comprising 5.18 million domestic visitors and 0.27 million international arrivals — representing an 8.4 per cent year-on-year increase. In June alone, tourist arrivals soared to 8.34 lakh, driven by cultural festivities such as the São João celebrations, forest stays, and creek tours. Hotel occupancy during the first half of this year ranged between 70 per cent and 100 per cent, reflecting strong demand.

Khaunte dismissed claims of a decline in tourism, presenting official figures indicating that Goa has already surpassed its pre-pandemic numbers. In 2019, the state hosted 8.06 million visitors, which rose to 10.4 million in 2024 — including nearly 9.94 million domestic tourists and over 46,700 international visitors — marking a 39.5 per cent increase in domestic and a 50 per cent rise in international tourist numbers compared to pre-COVID levels.

Connectivity remains a pivotal focus. Khaunte confirmed that direct flights between Goa and Gatwick (UK) will resume by the end of September. Starting 5 October, Aeroflot will operate three weekly flights from Yekaterinburg, Russia, to Mopa Airport, with each flight carrying 210 passengers, expected to bring over 13,000 Russian tourists this season. New air links with countries such as Poland, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan are also contributing to the increase in international visitors. Goa is actively participating in global roadshows and promotional campaigns, including the Prime Minister’s ‘Chalo India’ initiative.

The state is proudly the first in India to adopt regenerative tourism under the “Goa Beyond Beaches” programme. This approach focuses on three pillars — People, Economy, and Environment — with an emphasis on quality tourism over sheer volume. Spiritual tourism forms a core component, exemplified by the launch of the Ekadasha Teertha circuit, which features 11 historical temples across three thematic routes. GTDC buses are already operating on these routes, and tenders are being floated to develop nine common tourist facilities at these sites.

In terms of infrastructure, Goa is benefiting from central government initiatives such as Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD. Notable projects include the Rs 161 crore Unity Mall in Chimbel and the Rs 125 crore Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Digital Museum in Ponda (with Rs 98 crore from the Centre). Work on the Unity Mall is already underway, with final designs expected by July 31.

Khaunte also announced that the upcoming World Tourism Day celebrations in September will be extended into a month-long festival, turning the monsoon season into an engaging tourism period. Events will be held across the state under the banner of World Tourism Month. Traditional festivals such as São João, Sangodd, Shigmo, Chikhal Kalo, Carnival, and Deepotsav are being revived and promoted with government support. The 2025 São João festival in Siolim drew around 10,000 attendees and achieved 4.4 million online impressions, while over 9,000 visitors attended the third Chikhal Kalo event in Marcel.

To enhance tourist safety and experience, initiatives such as the 1364 tourist helpline, Beach Vigil App, and deployment of lifeguards and coastal police have been launched. A dedicated beach cleaning agency has been established, and enforcement efforts have intensified, with 318 touts booked between January and July 2025. The Chief Minister has also ordered strict action in vulnerable areas like beaches and casinos. Additionally, stray dog issues in tourist zones are being addressed through coordinated efforts with Panchayats and the Animal Husbandry Department.

Shack operators, who serve as ambassadors for Goan tourism, are receiving particular attention, with the government exploring regulatory and support measures. Hotel and restaurant occupancy remains high, pointing towards a shift in attracting higher-spending, quality tourists. Data collection through the Tourism Information Management Enterprise (TIME) system, which presently covers 25 per cent of registered units, is ongoing with plans for full implementation.

In conclusion, Khaunte reaffirmed that Goa’s tourism is evolving beyond just its beaches to encompass rich culture, heritage, spirituality, wellness, and nature-based experiences. “Tourism in Goa is heading in the right direction,” he said, emphasising the role of the “Double Engine Sarkar” — the joint efforts of the state and central governments — in delivering Rs 350 crore worth of transformative tourism projects.