The Goa government has launched a model for “regenerative tourism,” to become the first state in the country to do so. The approach aims to redefine tourism by promoting environmental restoration, cultural preservation, and community empowerment.
The launch of the model follows the G20 tourism ministers working group meet in June 2023, that came up with the Goa road map for tourism as a method for achieving the sustainable development goals.
“With the launch of the Ekadasha Teertha, we are giving Indian tourism a fresh look with an emphasis on spirituality, indigeneity, cultural and civilizational nationalism, and conscious tourism,” said Rohan Khaunte, Minister of Tourism, Goa, at a press conference on Wednesday.
“Our goal in introducing this model is to encourage the travel and tourism sector to adopt sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and human population,” he said.
The launch of the model is crucial as the Goa government wishes to enhance foreign and domestic tourist footfalls in the state. The tourism industry contributes about 16.5% to the state’s GDP, and employs around 33% of its population.
Also, as a result of the ongoing wars between Russia and Ukraine and Israel and Hamas, Goa has lost close to 1 million tourists from these countries, according to a state government official.
The Goa government has unfolded the “Ekadasha Teertha” campaign in the regions of eleven places of worship in Goa the state. By involving local communities in exploring, understanding, and projecting their culture, cuisine, and lifestyle, Goa Tourism aims to harness the commercial and economic potential of their own history and heritage.
“This transformative journey requires the support and participation of everyone. We urge members of the civil society to be the voice of the people, communities, and innovative women and youth,” Khaunte said.
Meanwhile, in a separate press conference, Khaunte – also the Minister of Information Technology, Electronics & Communication – unveiled GOA (Global Opportunities Aggregators) initiative to drive technological enhancement in the state.
As part of the initiative, the government is exploring the creation of co-working spaces on beaches and heritage locations, blending workspaces with the state’s unique geographical and historical assets.
The GOA initiative aims to showcase the state’s distinctive qualities and to empower and promote local talent.
(The writer was in Panaji at the invitation of the Goa government)