PORVORIM
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte has said the State government is not in the business of organising EDM festivals on its own, but insisted that local talent must be promoted when such festivals are organised in the State.Responding to media queries regarding plans by the State government to organise an EDM in December, Khaunte admitted that the State government wants to have a music festival in December.
“Such music festivals are beneficial to promote tourism and increase the inflow of tourists, both national and international. However, the government is not in the business of organising EDM festivals on its own.”
“What is important is that whoever comes to Goa to organise EDM festivals should also provide a platform to local artistes to showcase their talents.”
“Besides DJs and bands, we have artistes like Bondo, Hema Sardessai, and Sonia Shirsat who are of national and international repute. Hence, whoever comes to Goa should be prepared to showcase Goan talent as well,” said Khaunte.
The tourism minister also reiterated the need to promote hinterland tourism.
“We cannot depend only on the sun, sand and sea concept of tourism. We have to go beyond this so that the inflow of tourists is increased, employment is generated and there is rise in revenue for the State through tourism. We have to promote tourism in the right way,” said Khaunte.
Need to safeguard environment: Khaunte
PORVORIM: Tourism Minister and Porvorim MLA Rohan Khaunte has emphasised the need to safeguard the environment for healthy living and to ensure a clean and green Goa.
“Due to rapid urbanisation and modern lifestyle, we are cutting down trees, polluting the environment and releasing more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere than ever. This can have long-term disastrous effects on our health, well-being, and the climate,” said Khaunte.
“By planting trees, we can take a bold step towards maintaining our environment, reducing carbon emissions, and protecting our biodiversity. This is a responsibility not only for the government but also for the panchayats and residents.”
“Khaunte was speaking at the Nana Nani Park in Porvorim during a ‘Vanamohotsava’ programme organised by the Penha de Franca Panchayat.
Former sarpanch Manisha Naik advised those collecting saplings to plant them in their residential areas and nurture them into trees. Former panch members Shyam Kamat, Shalu Gupta and ZP member Kavita Naik were among those present on the occasion.
