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The Goan: Big 5-star hotels are doing well in Goa. Brands like Grand Mercure and Novotel came to Goa in the last few years. But, the tourism sector is made up of several smaller hotels. You mentioned that you discussed tourism with the Chief Minister. What should be the approach towards tourism?
Sudhir Mehta: I think we need full ecosystem for tourism in Goa. I would say big five-star hotels are only the start. We need growth across the value chain in Goa, not just the top hotels or mid-range hotels, but all kinds of hotels. Home stays can be a great part of it. Even from the perspective of employment, they can employ a lot of people. Just look at Airbnb, its success worldwide has shown that you can generate great value by marketing vacation homes online.
We, at CII, have members across the hospitality industry. So, we have big brands like Taj and also mid-sized chains. But, more importantly, we also have a lot of people who have information on the entire tourism ecosystem. Tourists need activities like water sports; besides transportation is also very important for them; then, there should be restaurants, evening events, clubs, etc. We have people who have expertise in all these activities.
TG: CII, being a pan-India association, must be having linkages with tourism trade outside the country as well. What role do you think this aspect can play?
SM: We feel that we can build an awareness about Goa as a destination outside the country. Of course, within India, a lot of people are aware of the allure of Goa. But, I think it helps to bring the right kind of people, travel and tour operator, travel writer, and if their experience is positive, then it will help in bringing more tourists. Atithee Devo Bhava is our culture and we have to live by it. Besides, we can create millions and millions of jobs through tourism. Whatever you may do, manufacturing will not generate millions of jobs, but tourism can.
TG: You said that defence manufacturing is a key area for Goa and CII can work with the government to get more defence related investments in the State. Could you please tell us how CII and the Goa government can work together in this regard?
SM: CII can do two things in this regard. One is to ensure that Goan companies have workforce with the right skillset for defence manufacturing, and, secondly, by facilitating more partnerships involving Goan companies in this space. CII is already working to encourage local entrepreneurs, who can acquire the required skillset to become ancillary units for Goa Shipyard.
