Panaji: Reinforcing its commitment to community-led tourism and women empowerment, Goa Tourism felicitated women entrepreneurs who have successfully established homestay businesses under the State’s Homestay Initiative, further strengthening the vision of “Goa Beyond Beaches.”
The felicitation ceremony was led by Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte in the presence of Hon’ble Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant, recognising the remarkable contribution of women entrepreneurs towards promoting authentic Goan hospitality, generating sustainable livelihoods, and encouraging tourism beyond the State’s popular coastline.
The entrepreneurs received financial assistance under the Homestay Initiative launched through a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2022 between the Department of Tourism, Airbnb, FIDR, and the Goa Livelihood Forum.
Empowering Women Through Tourism
Under the initiative, selected women entrepreneurs received grants of ₹2.5 lakh each to establish homestays, enabling them to transform their homes into welcoming accommodations while creating sustainable income opportunities.
The initiative aligns with the Government’s broader strategy of promoting responsible and community-driven tourism by encouraging visitors to discover Goa’s villages, heritage, cuisine, traditions, and culture.
Beyond financial support, the programme also provides capacity building, marketing assistance, simplified registration, and mentorship to help entrepreneurs develop successful tourism businesses.
CM Highlights Women’s Role in Rural Development
Congratulating the beneficiaries, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant said the Government remains committed to creating meaningful livelihood opportunities for women.
He noted that the initiative demonstrates how government support can empower women to build successful enterprises that strengthen their families while contributing to Goa’s economy and rural development.
‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ Vision
Speaking at the event, Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte reiterated that the “Goa Beyond Beaches” initiative aims to integrate villages and local communities into Goa’s tourism ecosystem.
He highlighted that authentic homestays, cultural experiences, local services, responsible waste management, and community-driven enterprises are central to creating a sustainable tourism model that preserves Goa’s unique heritage.
He further stated that through partnerships with organisations such as Airbnb, the Government continues to provide market access, mentorship, enterprise support, and capacity-building programmes, ensuring that rural communities—particularly women entrepreneurs—play a leading role in Goa’s tourism growth.
Building a Sustainable Tourism Ecosystem
The Government also reaffirmed its commitment to expanding Goa’s homestay network in a phased manner by encouraging greater community participation, improving quality standards, and creating more opportunities for rural entrepreneurs.
The Homestay Initiative continues to serve as an important pillar of Goa’s sustainable tourism strategy by empowering local communities, preserving traditional Goan homes, and offering visitors authentic cultural experiences beyond the beaches.
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