The meeting brought together officials, hoteliers, restaurateurs, shack owners, and tour operators to discuss current challenges and future opportunities in the sector. Acknowledging the positive trend in tourist arrivals, even during the monsoon season, Sawant assured participants that the government was listening to their concerns and committed to taking swift action.
“Goa is already witnessing a positive influx of tourists, including during the ongoing monsoon season. We have heard from all the stakeholders, including shack owners, restaurateurs, hoteliers, and tour operators, about their concerns,” the Chief Minister said.
Tourism Stakeholders, GTDC Chairman Shri Ganesh Gaonker & Govt Officials from Key Departments came together in a Meeting chaired by CM Dr Pramod Sawant to deliberate on making Goa an Environment Friendly World Class Tourist Destination with Best Infrastructure & Amenities.… pic.twitter.com/zljaGxYAwC
— Rohan Khaunte (@RohanKhaunte) July 11, 2025
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Among the issues raised were hurdles related to trade licence renewals, limited operating hours, infrastructure gaps, and constraints in aviation connectivity. Sawant stated that many of these concerns would be addressed within the next month, including proposals for visa-on-arrival for select countries and enhanced international air connectivity through engagement with the Central Government and the Prime Minister’s Office.
“We are committed to escalating matters such as visa-on-arrival for certain countries and international airline connectivity to the state through the Government of India and the Prime Minister’s Office,” he noted.
Emphasising inter-departmental coordination, Sawant highlighted that the tourism sector must benefit Goans directly through increased employment, digital upskilling, and better service delivery. He added, “MICE as well as spiritual, wellness, and sports-based tourism will be given a focused push by the state government to ensure constant growth in tourist footfall.”
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Additional plans include improving high-speed internet connectivity, enhancing transport and logistics, and upgrading the visitor experience through a “clean and green Goa” initiative. The state also aims to resolve longstanding issues involving GST, utility services, and road infrastructure, while strengthening the single-window clearance mechanism for tourism businesses.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte reiterated the need for collaborative governance. “Tourism is an industry that requires constant support and structured alignment with various departments from panchayats to police to forest and beyond,” he said.
“We are competing with top global destinations, and it is imperative that Goa stays one step ahead. With ease of doing business and targeted intervention, we can enhance the quality of tourism, increase employment, and grow tourism in a responsible manner,” Khaunte added.
