PANAJI
In a major victory for shack operators -- the ‘ambassadors’ of tourism industry -- the State government has withdrawn a new clause in the Goa Shack Policy 2023-26 that imposed age restrictions, limiting applicants to individuals between the ages of 18 to 60.
The government has decided to relax this age criterion, which means traditional shack operators who are older than 60 years can apply under this policy.
The policy, has however, allowed for the continuity of the legacy of experienced shack operators by permitting their next generation to take over the business under the original licensee’s name. This would ensure that the years of experience accumulated by the older generation are passed on to their successors.
“Our main intention was to facilitate the transition of the youth into this business from their older generation, such as traditional shack operators with 10, 15, or 20 years of experience. Instead of these experienced operators continuing to run the business, they can now pass it on to their children... For instance, one of them in the family can apply and inherit the same level of experience as their previous generation. That was the primary objective,” Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte said while explaining the government’s intention behind this change, during a press conference held at Paryatan Bhavan on Thursday.
This policy amendment was prompted by objections from stakeholders who raised concerns about its negative impact wherein they believed that the age restriction would discourage experienced operators from continuing their businesses.
Moreover, it would have hindered unemployed and inexperienced youth from entering the industry, especially those lacking financial support.
The stakeholders sought to relax the norm or provide financial support to the youth. In response to these concerns, the government decided to relax the age criterion.
Khaunte held a marathon meeting with stakeholders, including coastal MLAs who also expressed apprehensions about the fate of experienced shack owners without legal heirs or whose children are settled abroad. The minister explained that for many of them, shacks are their primary source of income.
“The option to involve the ‘next generation youth’ in the business remains open,” he added.
The minister also asserted that this policy would prevent the practice of sub-letting shacks, which had been common in the past.
In another decision, the tourism department emphasised the importance of preserving and showcasing Goan cuisine at every shack, as Khaunte said the shack operators themselves have been vital ambassadors for our culture ever since the inception of shacks.
