On May 14, 2025, in Panjim, Goa’s Department of Tourism hosted a high-level meeting bringing together key stakeholders to discuss current challenges and future opportunities for the region’s tourism sector. The gathering, chaired by Tourism Minister Rohan A Khaunte, included officials such as the Director of Tourism Kedar Naik, GTDC Managing Director Kuldeep Arolkar, and representatives from the tourism industry and Goa Tourism Board.
In his opening remarks, Minister Khaunte emphasised the importance of timelyandstructuredstakeholderengagements, particularly in light of nationalandregional developments. Referringtothe recent Pahalgam incident in Kashmir, he noted, “As the Hon’ble Prime Minister ensured a swiftandresolute response through Operation Sindoor, it was equally importantforus, as atourism-driven state,toevaluate the ripple effectsontravel sentiment.Today’smeetingwas notonly about addressing current concerns, but also about building long-term resilience. We are moving from mere policy reviewstodynamic recalibrations that are responsivetoground realities.Goa’s strength lies in its people—everyGoan is astakeholder, an influencer,andatourismambassador.”
Naik underlined theDepartment’s commitmenttolistening, learning,andenabling. “We are heretoensure that the voice of everystakeholderis heard. Fromformal hotelstohomestays, from digital platformstocommunity operators—GoaTourismbelongstoall of them. Thegoal istoensure that our policies remain inclusive, adaptive,andimplementation-ready.”
Recent data showed a 10.5 per cent increase in tourist arrivals in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the previous year, although April experienced a slight decline. The department is working on strategies to manage seasonal variations and market shifts.
The discussions encompassed sectoral reviews and planning for emerging geopolitical and economic challenges. Outcomes from the meeting will inform a subsequent session chaired by the Chief Minister, aiming to coordinate responses and strengthen the industry’s resilience.