Panaji, November 18, 2025: Member of Parliament Sadanand Shet Tanavade visited the Goa Pavilion at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2025 in New Delhi, where he commended the efforts of Goan artists and artisans for showcasing the state’s cultural legacy on a national stage.
Tanavade, who is also a member of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce (DRPSC), was in New Delhi as part of a study visit to review the activities of the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), the body that organizes IITF. Following the study review, he made a special visit to the Goa Pavilion.
He was welcomed at the pavilion by Assistant Information Officer Shanto Naik and Information Assistant Siddhesh Samant from the Department of Information and Publicity.
Taking a keen interest in the range of Goan handicrafts and cultural displays, Tanavade lauded the department’s efforts in presenting Goa’s rich cultural heritage, artistic traditions, and cuisine at major national events. He interacted with cultural artists and artisans, appreciating their dedication in representing Goa beyond the state’s borders and showcasing their talent to a diverse audience.
The Goa Pavilion continues to draw attention at IITF 2025 for its vibrant display of craftsmanship, culture, and creativity.
The Goa Pavilion at the 44th India International Trade Fair (IITF) was officially inaugurated by Dipak Bandekar, Director of Information and Publicity, marking an important moment for the state at one of India’s most prominent trade showcases.
Organised by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), a Government of India enterprise, this year’s fair is themed “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat,” celebrating unity in diversity and development across states.
The Goa Pavilion highlights the state’s cultural heritage, innovation, and progress, reflecting Goa’s strong development narrative.
On the occasion, Bandekar released a special brochure titled “#AtmanirbharBharat #SwayampurnaGoa”, showcasing Goa’s strides in self-reliance, sustainability, and holistic progress.
The Goa Pavilion continues to draw attention at the fair, reinforcing the state’s commitment to innovation and cultural pride.
Goa Tourism is taking the global stage once again, as it prepares to participate in OTDYKH Leisure 2025—one of the largest international travel and tourism exhibitions. The event will take place from 10th to 12th September at the Timiryazev Exhibition Center in Moscow, Russia. This year, Goa Tourism will present the theme “Sunshine and More in Goa” at Pavilion B13, inviting global audiences to experience the richness and diversity of India’s most beloved coastal destination.
Speaking ahead of the event, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized Goa’s positioning as a holistic and globally attractive destination. “Goa has always been one of the most sought-after destinations for international travelers, and our presence at OTDYKH Leisure 2025 is another step towards strengthening Goa’s global footprint. Through the theme ‘Sunshine and More in Goa,’ we want to showcase the multifaceted experiences our state offers, from beaches to hinterlands, from wellness retreats to cultural richness. Our focus is on attracting quality tourism, building meaningful collaborations, and positioning Goa as a responsible, world-class destination.”
Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, also noted the importance of the platform: “OTDYKH Leisure is a significant platform to connect with international travel trade stakeholders and potential visitors. At the Goa Pavilion, we will be highlighting not just the leisure aspect of Goa but also our forward-looking initiatives in areas like wellness, heritage, adventure, and community tourism. This participation provides an opportunity to emphasize Goa’s position as a destination that celebrates culture, sustainability, and authentic travel experiences.”
Goa’s presentation at the exhibition will go far beyond sun and sand. Visitors to the pavilion will get to explore the state’s pristine beaches, vibrant hinterlands, luxury resorts, spiritual and wellness getaways, immersive heritage trails, adrenaline-filled adventure experiences, and community-led tourism initiatives. It’s all part of Goa’s evolving narrative as a year-round destination for leisure, business, and mindful travel.
With the global spotlight increasingly shifting toward regenerative tourism and eco-conscious travel, Goa Tourism’s showcase will also highlight the state’s ongoing work in preserving natural ecosystems, empowering local communities, and encouraging responsible travel practices. By participating in OTDYKH Leisure 2025, Goa aims not only to promote its attractions but also to strengthen international partnerships, encourage investments, and open doors to a new era of tourism that values people, planet, and authentic experiences.
Goa Tourism warmly invites travel professionals, investors, stakeholders, and global travelers to visit the Goa Pavilion – B13 and experience the true spirit of “Sunshine and More in Goa.”
Panaji, 20 February 2025: The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, made a strong impression at South Asia’s Travel and Tourism Exchange (SATTE) 2025 with the grand inauguration of the Goa Pavilion at Yashobhoomi (IICC), New Delhi. The pavilion was officially inaugurated by the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, who is leading the Goa delegation at the event. He is accompanied by Secretary Tourism, Government of Goa, Shri Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS; Shri Shawn Mendes, OSD to the Tourism Minister; Shri Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager (Marketing), GTDC; Shri Jayesh Kankonkar, Assistant Director of Tourism, Department of Tourism; and Smt Chitra Vengurlekar, Assistant Tourist Officer, Department of Tourism. Goa Tourism will be showcasing its diverse offerings at SATTE 2025 over the next two days, until 21st February 2025.
As part of the event, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, along with dignitaries including Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Uzbekistan, Shri Umid Shadiev; Hon’ble Vice Minister, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Thailand, Shri Jakkaphon Tangsutthitham; Hon’ble Minister of Tourism, Government of Nagaland, Shri Temjen Imna Along; Shri Yogesh Mudras, Managing Director, Informa Markets India; Smt Pallavi Mehra, Senior Group Director, Informa Markets & Publisher, Travel Trends Today; Shri Peter Hall, President, IMEA, Informa Markets; and Chairman, STIC Group, Shri Subhash Goyal, participated in a thought-provoking panel discussion at SATTE India 2025. The discussion explored key trends and opportunities shaping the global tourism landscape.
During the event, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte held a meeting with the Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Uzbekistan, Shri Umid Shadiev, to explore tourism collaboration opportunities. He also interacted with media persons and conducted a B2B meeting with top officials, accompanied by Secretary Tourism, Government of Goa Shri Sanjeev Ahuja, IAS.
Speaking about Goa’s participation at SATTE 2025, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte stated, “Goa has always been a pioneer in the tourism sector, and at SATTE 2025, we are further strengthening our vision of responsible and regenerative tourism. Our focus is on sustainable and experiential travel, enhancing visitor experiences while ensuring benefits for local communities. We look forward to engaging with industry leaders, stakeholders, and travellers to showcase the evolving dimensions of Goa’s tourism sector.”
Recognized as one of India’s most sought-after travel destinations, Goa is showcasing a diverse range of tourism offerings at SATTE 2025, with a strong emphasis on Regenerative Tourism, heritage, culture, adventure, and sustainable travel experiences. The Goa Pavilion at SATTE 2025 highlights the state’s rich cultural heritage, eco-tourism initiatives, adventure tourism prospects, and vibrant festivals, offering immersive experiences that go beyond the beaches. Additionally, the pavilion serves as a platform for business networking, interactive sessions, and insights into the state’s latest tourism initiatives. With a firm commitment to sustainable tourism, Goa continues to reinforce its position as a leader in India’s travel landscape.
