The Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), SKAL Goa, and Goa Tourism celebrated the 42nd edition of World Tourism Day on Tuesday, with a series of events to underline the importance of adopting a sustainable approach, conserving heritage and rethinking tourism.
In attendance was GTDC Chairman and Sanvordem MLA Ganesh Gaonkar, Tourism Secretary Shri Ravi Dhavan, TTAG and SKAL officials, state tourism officials, and tourism stakeholders.
CM Pramod Sawant was unable to attend the event but shared a message, saying, “Tourism is the backbone of the Goan industry and it’s our commitment to make Goa the tourism capital of the country. We are working on skilling our youth through short and long-term courses to create employment for the Goan population.”
In his address, GTDC Chairman and Sanvordem MLA Ganesh Gaonkar said Goa is more than its beaches, adding that the beauty of Goa lies in its hinterlands.
“We are going to make extensive efforts to tap into and explore hinterland tourism,” said Gaonkar.
Tourism Secretary Ravi Dhavan described Goa a brand by itself.
“The State has bounced back well post the pandemic. The State is making strides significantly where tourism is concerned. It’s a proud moment for Goa to have won four national awards. Mopa will be a game changer for tourism in Goa. The season ahead looks bright,” he said.
TTAG President Nilesh Shah said events planned for World Tourism Day speak loud on the focus that is sustainable tourism, conservation, rejuvenation, heritage, history and culture of the State.
“This event will help to magnify the relevance of the steps being taken by the tourism stakeholder community,” said Shah.
The day-long celebrations included a rally with the purpose of conveying the message of sustainable mobility conducted exclusively on non-fuel vehicles, a boat ride for the specially-abled children on the Mandovi river, a unique walking tour at the historically sensitive and expansive 88-acre Raj Bhavan estate and multiple other heritage walks in Panaji, Saligao, Margao and Old Goa.
A cooking contest was also conducted for culinary students and home chefs (women) at Cidade De Goa in association with Institute of Hotel Management (IHM).
