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OTM 2025: Goa Highlights Heritage, Sustainability, and Regenerative Tourism

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Panaji, February 1, 2025 : As OTM 2025 came to a close, Goa Tourism showcased its commitment to sustainable and responsible travel. The final day highlighted the state’s dedication to preserving its natural beauty while offering visitors enriching experiences that celebrate Goa’s heritage and its focus on regenerative tourism, blending environmental conservation with community engagement.

Goa’s participation at OTM 2025 emphasized its status as a premier global travel destination. The state’s presentation revolved around Regenerative Tourism, which promotes responsible travel that benefits both local communities and the environment. With a commitment to eco-friendly initiatives, community-based tourism, and cultural preservation, Goa is leading the way in offering authentic experiences that will help safeguard its future.

One of the key highlights of Goa Tourism’s presence was the promotion of the Ekadasha Teertha circuit—an array of 11 historic temples that provide spiritual and cultural experiences for travellers. In addition, Goa showcased its beauty beyond the beaches, the vibrant festivals, rich local cuisine, and sustainable beach tourism, all integral elements of the Goan experience.

“We are delighted with the response we’ve received at OTM 2025,” said Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism. “This platform has allowed us to engage with global tourism professionals and showcase how Goa is evolving into a hub for regenerative and sustainable tourism. The future of travel is here, and Goa is proud to lead the way.”

Throughout the event, Goa Tourism delegates, including Shri Rajesh Kale, Deputy Director (South), Mr. Pravinkumar Faldessai, Sr. Manager Marketing (GTDC), and Mr. Sachin Gad, Information Assistant (DOT), actively engaged with visitors at the Goa Tourism pavilion. They fostered valuable connections and highlighted the state’s diverse tourism offerings.

The final day of OTM Mumbai 2025 was a momentous occasion for Goa Tourism as it was honored with the prestigious Best Decoration Award. The award was presented by Mr. Gazanfar Ibrahim, Managing Director, Fairfest Media Limited, and received by Mr. Rajesh Kale (Deputy Director, South), Mr. Pravinkumar Faldessai (Sr. Manager Marketing, GTDC), and Mr. Sachin Gad (Information Assistant, DOT) on behalf of Goa Tourism. The award reaffirmed Goa Tourism’s dedication to creating engaging experiences that highlight the essence of the destination while setting a benchmark for excellence in tourism promotion.

The event also featured insightful discussions on the future of ecotourism and the integration of technology to promote sustainable travel. Goa Tourism reaffirmed its commitment to balancing tourism growth with environmental preservation, highlighting innovative approaches to responsible and sustainable tourism development.

With numerous networking sessions and partnerships solidified, Goa’s participation at OTM 2025 signals the beginning of a new era for responsible tourism in the state.

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Experience Goa’s diversity and charm at OTM Mumbai 2025

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Goa Tourism is all set to mesmerize visitors at the highly anticipated OTM Mumbai 2025, Asia’s leading travel and tourism exhibition. The event, scheduled from January 30th to February 1st, 2025, at the Jio World Convention Centre.

Our participation at OTM Mumbai will showcase Goa’s rich cultural heritage, colourful traditions, adventure activities, and spiritual tourism, offering an engaging experience beyond its iconic beaches. Visitors can explore Goa Tourism’s stall at J-T 110, Jasmine Hall, 3rd Floor, which will vividly present Goa’s lesser-explored gems, including heritage sites, traditional festivals, eco-tourism offerings, and much more. Key highlights will include initiatives like Ekadasha Teertha, adventure tourism, and spiritual tourism, underscoring Goa’s dedication to sustainability and cultural preservation.

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, remarked, “At OTM Mumbai, we are excited to showcase the true essence of Goa. Platforms like OTM allow us to present Goa’s diverse offerings, highlighting the state as a global destination for travellers seeking authentic and enriching experiences.”

Goa Tourisms’ participation reflects the ongoing commitment to promoting regenerative tourism. The pavilion will feature Goa’s cultural legacy, dynamic festivals, thrilling adventure options, and the charm of its serene hinterland. The exhibition also serves as a valuable networking platform to strengthen Goa’s position as a leading, innovative tourism destination. It will also promote Goa as a premier destination for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism and as an ideal locale for destination weddings, with its picturesque settings and bespoke services offering a memorable backdrop for both business and celebratory events.

Visit Goa Tourism’s stall at OTM Mumbai 2025 and rediscover the magic of “Goa Beyond Beaches.” Experience the sights, sounds, and stories that define Goa’s unique identity, from its bustling markets to traditional celebrations. Learn about the bespoke offerings that make Goa an exceptional destination for leisure, business, and milestone events. Whether you are a traveller seeking adventure, a couple planning a picturesque wedding, or a professional organizing a memorable corporate event, Goa has something special to offer for every occasion. Dive into a world where tradition meets modernity and create unforgettable memories in India’s favourite coastal paradise.

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Radisson Blu Hotel Bengaluru Achieves Milestone in Sustainability with LEED Net Zero Carbon Certification

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In a groundbreaking achievement, Radisson Blu Hotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road has become the first hotel in Radisson Hotel Group’s global portfolio to receive the prestigious LEED Net Zero Carbon Certificate from the US Green Building Council (USGBC). This top-level certification is a testament to the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.

The LEED Net Zero Carbon certification is the highest level of recognition for buildings that have achieved net-zero carbon emissions. To achieve this certification, Radisson Blu Hotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road has implemented various sustainability measures, including investing in renewable energy, reducing energy consumption, and offsetting its carbon emissions.

“We are proud to achieve this milestone in sustainability,” said Mr. Austin Roach, Chairman, Radisson Blu Hotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road. “At Radisson Blu Hotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road, sustainability is not just a trend, but a way of life. We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and providing our guests with a sustainable and responsible hospitality experience.”

Some of the sustainability measures implemented by the hotel include:

  • A solar power plant that generates 100% of the hotel’s energy needs
  • An onsite biogas plant that converts waste into energy
  • A rainwater harvesting system that reduces water consumption
  • An effluent treatment plant that recycles wastewater
  • Electric vehicles for guest transportation

The hotel’s commitment to sustainability has also been recognized by the USGBC, which awarded the hotel the LEED Platinum 4.1 O+M Existing Buildings certification last year.

“Radisson Blu Hotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road is a shining example of sustainability leadership in the hospitality industry,” said Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director & Area Senior Vice President – South Asia, Radisson Hotel Group. “We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and achieving Net Zero across all our properties.”

Inge Huijbrechts, Chief Sustainability and Security Officer, Radisson Hotel Group, added, “As a global hospitality group, we are committed to becoming Net Zero by 2050. Hotels like Radisson Blu Hotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road demonstrate that sustainability leadership is possible today, and we will continue to innovate and expand our efforts globally.”

The LEED Net Zero Carbon certification is a significant milestone for Radisson Blu Hotel Bengaluru Outer Ring Road and a testament to its commitment to sustainability. The hotel’s efforts to reduce its environmental impact and provide a sustainable hospitality experience make it a leader in the hospitality industry.

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India and China Agree to Resume Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and Direct Flights

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In a significant development, India and China have agreed to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage for Hindus, and direct flights between the two countries. The decision was made during a two-day foreign secretary-level talk in Beijing, where Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with Chinese officials.

Resumption of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which has been suspended since the Covid-19 outbreak in 2020, is expected to resume in the summer of 2025. The relevant mechanism will discuss the modalities for the pilgrimage as per existing agreements. This development is a significant step forward in promoting people-to-people exchanges and strengthening bilateral ties between India and China.

In-Principle Approval for Direct Flights

In addition to resuming the yatra, India and China have also given an in-principle nod to resume direct flights between the two countries. The relevant technical authorities will meet to negotiate an updated framework for direct air services. This move is expected to boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges between the two nations.

A Positive Step in India-China Relations

The agreement to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and direct flights is seen as a positive step in stabilizing and rebuilding ties between India and China. The two countries have agreed to take people-centric steps to promote bilateral relations, including facilitating people-to-people exchanges and media interactions.

Background

The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a sacred pilgrimage for Hindus, who believe that Lord Shiva resides on Mount Kailash. The yatra, which takes place every year, involves a trek to Mount Kailash and a visit to Lake Mansarovar. The suspension of the yatra due to the Covid-19 pandemic had caused disappointment among devotees.

Implications

The resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and direct flights between India and China is expected to have significant implications for bilateral relations, trade, and tourism. The move is likely to boost people-to-people exchanges, cultural exchanges, and economic cooperation between the two nations.

Conclusion

The agreement to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra and direct flights between India and China is a welcome development that is expected to strengthen bilateral ties and promote people-to-people exchanges. The move is a positive step forward in rebuilding trust and cooperation between the two nations.

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OYO joins hands with the Goa Tourism Department to promote tourism, launches Accelerator Program

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In a significant move to promote tourism in Goa, OYO, a leading hospitality chain, has partnered with the Goa Tourism Department to launch its Accelerator Program. This initiative aims to support small and first-generation hoteliers in expanding their businesses and achieving long-term profitability.

The Accelerator Program was launched by Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Honorable Minister for Tourism, Goa, in the presence of Varun Jain, Chief Operating Officer, OYO. The program is designed to provide financial assistance, mentorship, and access to technology to help hoteliers scale up their operations.

The Accelerator Program offers a range of benefits to hoteliers, including:

  • Financial assistance to help hoteliers expand their operations
  • Mentorship and guidance to help hoteliers navigate the complexities of scaling up
  • Access to technology, including OYO’s revamped technological products like Co-OYO and OYO 360
  • Dedicated relationship managers to provide support and guidance
  • Access to OYO’s network of over 15,000 corporate accounts and more than 10,000 travel agents across India

The partnership between OYO and the Goa Tourism Department is expected to have a significant impact on tourism in Goa. With over 500 hotels expected to be onboarded under this program, it is estimated that more than 5,000 new jobs will be generated in the state over the next one year.

“The Accelerator Program not only aligns with our vision of sustainable tourism but also provides a platform for small and mid-sized businesses to scale up their operations through strategic mentorship, technology integration, and financial support,” said Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte.

“We are excited to partner with Goa’s aspiring hoteliers, helping them realise their business potential. Our confidence in the success of this Program in Goa stems from the proven results we have witnessed in other states where it has already been implemented,” said Varun Jain, Chief Operating Officer, OYO.

The partnership between OYO and the Goa Tourism Department is a significant step towards promoting tourism in Goa. With its Accelerator Program, OYO is providing a platform for small and first-generation hoteliers to scale up their operations and achieve long-term profitability. This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on tourism in Goa, generating new jobs and promoting sustainable tourism practices.