Categories: Travel

Goa has potential in conference tourism, eco-tourism in hinterlands: Modi, ET TravelWorld

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Goa CM Pramod Sawant during the Viksit Bharat, Viksit Goa 2047 programme

While inaugurating the development projects worth over INR 1330 crores in Viksit Bharat, Viksit Goa 2047 program in Goa, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted that the Government is committed to developing Goa as a tourist destination for conference tourism.

Highlighting the state’s allure for global events, Modi reminisced about pivotal gatherings like the India Energy Week 2024 and various significant diplomatic conclaves held in Goa. He underscored Goa’s track record of hosting prestigious tournaments such as the World Table Tennis Championship and the FIFA Under-17 Women’s Football World Cup, affirming its escalating prominence on the international stage. He assured that Goa will become a huge center for such events in the coming years.

Recognising the untapped potential of eco-tourism in Goa’s rural landscapes, Modi emphasised the administration’s focus on fostering tourism in the state’s hinterlands for the mutual benefit of local communities. He outlined initiatives aimed at bolstering Goa’s tourism infrastructure, including the development of modern amenities like food courts and restaurants, aimed at enhancing their appeal as a tourist hotspot.

He further spoke about the natural beauty and pristine beaches of Goa and said that it is the favourite holiday destination of lakhs and lakhs of tourists from India and abroad. “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat can be experienced during any season in Goa”, he remarked.

In addressing the government’s efforts to bolster connectivity and position Goa as a logistical nucleus, Modi highlighted ongoing initiatives to enhance transportation networks, citing the inauguration of the Manohar Parrikar International Airport and the New Zuari Bridge as pivotal milestones.

2022 brought a resurgence in foreign tourist footfall, with FTVs surging to 1.75 lakh, showcasing growth of 695.45 per cent. However, the numbers still were below the pre pandemic levels. Going forward, Goa Tourism plans to intensify its promotion efforts in international markets by participating in prominent travel marts and exhibitions and organising international roadshows to attract more foreign tourists to the state.

He underscored Goa’s rapid infrastructural evolution, encompassing the development of new roads, bridges, railway routes, and educational institutions, propelling the state towards unprecedented growth.”These developments are propelling the growth of Goa to new heights,” he said.Further detailing about the INR 1300 crore worth projects that were inaugurated, PM Modi, said that the projects related with education, health and tourism will give a new push to the development of Goa. Notably, the laying of the foundation stone for a Passenger Ropeway linking Panaji and Reis Magos, alongside complementary tourism ventures, were also given a green flag.

Emphasising India’s diverse cultural and natural heritage, Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to showcasing India as a comprehensive tourist destination, accessible through a unified visa platform.