Category: Travel

Travel

Goa and Norway Strengthen Ties to Collaborate on Technology, Tourism and Creative Industries

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

Goa deepened its global engagement as a high-level delegation from Norway visited the State for a roundtable hosted by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (DITE&C), in collaboration with the Department of Tourism. The interaction focused on exploring partnerships in technology, tourism, creative industries, skilling, cybersecurity and sustainability. The discussions were held in the presence of Hon’ble Minister for Information Technology, Electronics and Communications and Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, alongside senior officials including Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director of DITE&C; Dr. Milind Sakhardande, Joint Director, DITE&C; Dr. Gavin Dias, General Manager (Marketing) of GTDC; Shri D. S. Prashant, CEO of Startup and IT Promotion Cell; and representatives from Kilowott. The Norwegian delegation featured key leaders such as Trond Skundberg, General Manager of NICCI; Christian H. Engh, CEO of the Norwegian Cybersecurity Cluster; Monica Skjellen-Larsen, Advisor at Gjøvikregionen Utvikling; Bjørn Aspøy, CEO of Smart Farm AS; Sheraline Rocha, Head of Strategic Partnerships at Nordic Intent; Aditya Prabhugaonkar of Kilowott; Yeshtesh Shirodkar of Consstruct; and Prabha, Director at NICCI.

Hon’ble Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte emphasized that Goa is increasingly shaping a development model that brings together technology, creativity and sustainable tourism. He highlighted ongoing initiatives ranging from electronic manufacturing and AI skilling to a robust startup policy that positions Goa as an attractive destination for global collaboration. He further noted that the State’s tourism strategy is increasingly focused on technology-enabled experiences, immersive storytelling and climate-conscious practices. He reiterated that Goans must remain central beneficiaries of any international partnership, with opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship and skill development.

Christian H. Engh, CEO of the Norwegian Cybersecurity Cluster, explained why Norway considers Goa a strategic partner. He underscored that Norway, one of the world’s most digitised nations with strengths in renewable energy, electric mobility and advanced technology, is now looking toward India to address talent needs and co-develop scalable innovations. Engh stressed that Goa’s commitment to sustainability, clean mobility and future-ready tourism strongly aligns with Norway’s priorities. He further noted that aquaculture technology—an established strength of Norway—offers promising potential for joint initiatives with Goa.

The roundtable also included a presentation by Shri D. S. Prashant, CEO of the Startup & IT Promotion Cell, who discussed Goa’s evolving startup ecosystem, strong policy environment and emergence of a creative-tech landscape that combines design, technology and innovation. This was followed by a detailed briefing by Dr. Gavin Dias from GTDC, showcasing Goa’s tourism strategy and its increasing emphasis on sustainability, wellness, Ayurveda, medical tourism, heritage conservation and biodiversity-driven travel. Investment opportunities in hospitality, experiential tourism, charter operations and research-based collaborations were also highlighted.

During the interaction, the Norwegian delegation outlined several actionable areas for future collaboration. These included university partnerships, academic and incubator exchanges, talent mobility programmes between Goa and Norway, research-led collaborations and the introduction of international diver certification programmes. The delegation also discussed strengthening the NICCI network in India and leveraging Norway’s global expertise in aquaculture, marine technology and clean energy to align with Goa’s emerging opportunities in these sectors.

As Goa accelerates its work in technology, creative industries, skilling and sustainable tourism, the engagement with the Norwegian delegation underscores the State’s readiness for global partnerships. The discussions highlighted the mutual interest of both regions in shaping future-oriented initiatives anchored in innovation, sustainability and shared growth.

Travel

A Treasury of Life: India’s Largest Exhibition of Company Paintings Opens in Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

DAG, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, is presenting A Treasury of Life: Indian Company Paintings, c. 1790–1835, the most comprehensive exhibition of Company Paintings ever mounted in India. Opening on 1 December 2025 at the Aguad Port & Jail Complex and running until 14 January 2026, the exhibition brings together 200 extraordinary works created by Indian artists who worked for European patrons in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Company paintings have long occupied an ambiguous position in Indian art history, often viewed as too late for the classical court tradition yet too early for modernism. This exhibition challenges that notion by showing how these artists blended indigenous techniques with Western influences, responding creatively to new patrons and subjects. Their work spans natural history, architecture, and depictions of daily life—each rendered with a mix of accuracy, sensitivity, and innovation. These paintings not only document India’s flora, fauna, built heritage, and social customs but also preserve memories of worlds that have since transformed or disappeared.

Curated by Giles Tillotson, SVP at DAG, the exhibition includes works by celebrated artists such as Sita Ram, Sewak Ram, and Chuni Lal, alongside European references by artists like James Forbes and F.B. Solvyns that help illuminate the artistic dialogue of the time. The showcase highlights how Indian artists forged a new visual language, laying the groundwork for future developments in Indian modernism.

Leaders from DAG and Goa Tourism emphasise the significance of hosting this exhibition in a historic site like Aguad, reinforcing Goa’s commitment to heritage-centred cultural experiences. The accompanying publication deepens the exploration with essays by leading scholars in the field.

Presenting a vital and often overlooked part of India’s artistic legacy, A Treasury of Life invites audiences to rediscover the creativity, adaptability, and brilliance of the Indian artists who shaped this remarkable visual tradition.

Travel

Goa Tourism Concludes Successful Bahrain Roadshow, Showcasing New Experiences and Stronger GCC Partnerships

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

Goa Tourism marked another milestone in its international outreach by successfully concluding its Bahrain Roadshow, which saw an enthusiastic response from travel trade professionals, media representatives, airline partners, and members of the Goan diaspora. The evening was graced by His Excellency Mr. Vinod K. Jacob, Ambassador of India to Bahrain, and key leaders from Goa Tourism including Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism; Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism; Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of GTDC; and Mr. Harish Satlekar, Marketing Manager at GTDC. Together they presented the refreshed tourism positioning of the state, introducing contemporary themes such as Nocto Tourism, Jet-Setting, and CalmCation, brought to life through the newly launched Feels Like Goa campaign that focuses on authenticity, emotion, and the distinctive spirit of Goa.

Hon’ble Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte expressed that Bahrain continues to be a strategic and promising market for Goa, with the impressive turnout reflecting strong trust and interest in the destination. He emphasized that the new tourism themes aim to resonate with today’s travellers by offering curated experiences that go beyond traditional tourism. The event was further elevated by the presence of notable dignitaries from Bahrain’s travel sector, including Ms. Fatima Ahmed, President of ABTTA; Mr. Hussain Zaman, Country Manager for Gulf Air, the only airline offering direct flights between Goa and Bahrain; and Mr. Noel Fernandes, President of the Young Goans Club. Their participation highlighted the significance of the event for bilateral tourism collaboration.

The audience was treated to captivating Goan folk dance performances, including the iconic dekhni and corridinho, which brought the vibrant cultural heritage of Goa to life. Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, reiterated the immense potential of the Bahrain market and shared that the Feels Like Goa narrative places culture, cuisine, heritage, and immersive experiences at the forefront. Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of GTDC, highlighted the ongoing upgrades to hospitality infrastructure and the enhancements in residencies and transport services, ensuring improved comfort and reliability for visitors from Bahrain.

One of the major highlights of the evening was the Destination Presentation, featuring specially curated films showcasing Goa’s diverse tourism landscape—from beaches and heritage sites to festive traditions, hinterland attractions, and new experiential initiatives. The program concluded with a lively networking dinner, where trade partners, media, airline representatives, and members of the diaspora engaged with Goa Tourism officials to explore collaborative opportunities and future possibilities for expanding connectivity and tourism offerings.

The Bahrain Roadshow forms a crucial part of Goa Tourism’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the GCC region. With consistent trade engagement, improved air connectivity, and a renewed focus on diversified experiences, Goa continues to position itself as a dynamic, year-round destination for travellers seeking authenticity, culture, and memorable experiences.

Travel

GCCI Agri Committee Leads Delegation to Mopa International Airport to Boost Mango Export Potential

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

The GCCI Agriculture Committee undertook an important outreach initiative on 21 November 2025 with a high-level delegation to the Cargo Facility at Manohar International Airport, Mopa. This visit aimed to explore opportunities for facilitating large-scale mango exports from Goa and the neighboring regions of Karnataka, particularly Dharwad. The delegation included Chairman Mahesh Patil, Committee Members Pandurang Patil and Dr. Suresh Kunkalikar, and GCCI Deputy Director Ms. Ambika Dhakhenkar. GCCI has been at the forefront of promoting trade and export opportunities in Goa for decades and played a significant role since the 1990s in advocating for the establishment of a second airport with robust cargo capabilities.

A visit by representatives of Mavu Belegarar Balaga, Dharwad, brought valuable insights into the region’s potential. Led by Executive Member Dr. Rajendra Poddar and President Shri Subhas Akalwadi, the group shared their vision of tapping international markets such as Singapore, the Middle East, and Europe. They highlighted that nearly 60,000 acres are under mango cultivation in their region, with half located in the Dharwad belt. Their first export shipment last year had to travel 8.5 hours to Chintamani, while Mopa Airport offers a significantly shorter four-hour route. The growers emphasised the advantages of reduced transit time, lower damage risks, and improved logistics efficiency. They also presented the region’s achievements including the establishment of an APEDA-approved packhouse created through central government support, which has strengthened storage and handling of perishable produce.

During the visit, Mr. Purushottam Thakur, Cargo Logistics Head at GMR Mopa, delivered an extensive presentation on current and upcoming facilities designed to support export operations, especially for perishable commodities. The delegation was taken through the cargo terminal and briefed on developments such as the fully integrated, multi-commodity APEDA-approved packhouse spanning 5,600 sq. metres with a 100-tonne daily capacity, set to be operational by April 2026. Supported by the Department of Agriculture, Government of Goa, and APEDA, this packhouse will enhance export operations for farmers in Goa, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. It will also offer storage options for unsold produce, enabling redirection to domestic markets through 29 Indian destinations connected to GOX, thereby reducing risks associated with international shipment rejections.

Mr. Thakur further outlined upcoming initiatives including Tier II warehousing, an in-house Customs office, and a Plant Quarantine facility. He also highlighted the potential for multi-modal logistics through Mormugao Port and ICD Balli once the packhouse becomes functional. The Dharwad Mango Growers Group invited the GMR team to present these opportunities to growers in their region, to which Mr. Thakur assured full cooperation, noting possibilities for daily mango export truckloads and expansion into other high-value agricultural products such as Bijapur lemons, pomegranates, and guavas.

The visit reinforced the belief that every progressive FPO or grower group has the potential to become an exporter—aligned with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to double farmer incomes. GCCI expressed deep appreciation to GMR’s cargo team, particularly Mr. Purushottam Thakur, and acknowledged the Dharwad Mango Growers Group for their initiative in considering Goa as a gateway to global markets. As Goa’s economy looks beyond tourism and mining, the GCCI Agriculture Committee is advocating the state’s strategic potential to evolve into the Logistics Hub of Western India for agri-exports, supported by strong road connectivity, the expanding capabilities of Mormugao Port, and world-class infrastructure at Mopa Airport. GCCI remains committed to fostering collaborations that can strengthen Goa’s role in global agricultural trade and provide lasting economic benefits to farmers and agri-entrepreneurs.

Travel

Air India to Resume Non-Stop Flights to Mainland China; Delhi–Shanghai Route Restarting February 2026

allycaralgoa

Air India has officially announced the resumption of its non-stop operations to mainland China, nearly six years after services were halted. Beginning 1 February 2026, the airline will operate four weekly flights between Delhi and Shanghai (PVG), marking a major milestone in restoring India–China air connectivity.

The flights will be operated using Air India’s modern Boeing 787-8 aircraft, equipped with 18 fully flat beds in Business Class and 238 comfortable seats in Economy Class. Shanghai now becomes the 48th international destination served by the Air India group.

In addition, Air India has revealed plans to launch a Mumbai–Shanghai non-stop service later in 2026, pending regulatory permissions.

A Major Step Forward for India–China Connectivity

The resumption follows new diplomatic agreements that restored suspended air links between the two nations. Air India originally launched non-stop flights to mainland China in October 2000, and this relaunch reflects renewed confidence in business, tourism, trade, and academic exchanges.

Air India CEO & MD Campbell Wilson called the move a symbolic reconnection of two ancient cultures and fast-growing global economies.
He stated:

“This resumption is more than a route launch. It is a bridge between two great, ancient civilisations and modern economic powerhouses. We are happy to reconnect one of the world’s most vital air corridors, enabling travellers to pursue opportunities in business, trade, healthcare, education and culture — with warm Indian hospitality that defines Air India.”

Flight Schedule: Delhi (DEL) – Shanghai (PVG)

Effective 01 February 2026

Flight No.SectorDepartureArrivalDays
AI352Delhi–Shanghai1200 hrs2020 hrsTue, Thu, Fri, Sun
AI351Shanghai–Delhi2200 hrs0315 hrs (+1)Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun

Bookings are now progressively opening across Air India’s channels — website, app, sales offices, contact centre, and travel agents worldwide.

The airline expects that the restored route will help strengthen ties in pharmaceuticals, technology, education, finance, and tourism, contributing to deeper socio-economic exchanges.