PANAJI
Amid debates over declining tourist numbers, the Tourism Department continues to claim an upward trend. Meanwhile, Goa remains a leading wedding destination, particularly for high-profile and celebrity events.
Goa has hosted several luxurious events in the past.
Recognising the potential of wedding tourism, the Goa government is stepping up efforts to simplify the process for hosting such events. A draft proposal to establish Goa as a premier wedding destination was presented to the Goa Tourism Board on Tuesday. The aim is to boost state revenue and GST collections.
To expedite the initiative, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte are expected to hold a high-level meeting with the Chief Secretary and other department heads within two weeks. The discussions will focus on the draft, addressing issues like single-window clearances, revenue generation, and environmental impact.
“All stakeholders, including government departments, will be consulted before the draft proposal is finalised,” a senior tourism official told The Goan.
The draft proposes simplifying the approval process for beach weddings. Applicants will no longer need to approach multiple departments, as permissions will be managed through a streamlined online single-window platform.
“The Tourism Department will introduce a streamlined online single-window platform for all wedding-related permissions right from Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority, Goa State Pollution Control Board, Police, etc. There will be a stipulated time frame for obtaining approval, which if not done so, will be deemed as approved,” the source said interpreting the draft.
The proposal also suggests transferring authority for beach wedding approvals from local panchayats to the Department of Tourism and GCZMA, given that beaches are state-regulated zones.
“The government is committed to promoting destination weddings and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) events while ensuring Goa’s ecological balance and local interests are protected,” the official added.
While more details are awaited, initial reports indicate that beach weddings in ecologically sensitive areas will not be permitted.
