In a remarkable achievement, the Manohar International Airport (MIA) at Mopa, Goa, has been crowned the “Best Domestic Airport” at the Travel + Leisure India’s Best Awards 2024. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the airport’s exceptional infrastructure, seamless connectivity, and commitment to excellence.
Competing against top airports nationwide, MIA Mopa stood out for its state-of-the-art facilities, efficient operations, and passenger-centric approach. The airport’s stunning architecture, modern amenities, and breathtaking views of the Goan landscape have made it a favorite among travelers.
This award win is a significant milestone for Goa’s tourism and economic growth. As a key gateway to the state, MIA Mopa plays a vital role in facilitating travel, trade, and commerce. The airport’s expansion and modernization have not only enhanced the passenger experience but also opened up new opportunities for businesses, investors, and job seekers.
“We are thrilled to receive this prestigious award, which is a testament to our team’s hard work and dedication,” said a spokesperson for MIA Mopa. “We will continue to strive for excellence, innovate, and improve our services to make MIA Mopa a world-class airport.”
Porvorim, December 27, 2024: In a significant step towards transforming Goa’s tourism landscape, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Dr. Pramod Sawant and Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Information Technology, Electronics & Communications, Printing & Stationery, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte launched LetsGoa, an innovative digital platform designed to provide seamless travel experiences for tourists and locals.
The launch ceremony, held at Mantralaya, Porvorim, was attended by key dignitaries, including Chief Secretary, Dr. V Candavelou, IAS, Director of Tourism, Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Shri Milind Sakhardande, Joint Director for IT, and other senior officials.
LetsGoa, Tourism Experience Platform (TEP) is a transformative platform for tourists, locals, and the tourism sector, including hoteliers, travel agencies, service providers, and activity operators. It allows businesses to showcase their products and services, enabling tourists to explore and book them easily.
During the launch, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant emphasized, “Goa is renowned as a premier tourist destination, and the launch of LetsGoa marks a significant step in providing seamless, technology-driven services. This platform will help showcase Goa’s rich heritage and natural beauty while ensuring convenience for tourists and locals alike.”
Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte said, “The LetsGoa tourism experience platform serves as a comprehensive guide to Goa’s services, integrating tourism, technology, and local businesses. With LetsGoa, we aim to empower tourists with a reliable, single-point resource for all their travel needs in Goa. This initiative will benefit local businesses by connecting them with a wider audience.”
LetsGoa provides a one-stop solution for tourists, offering bookings for accommodations, adventure activities, cultural experiences, and more. Key features include secure online bookings for activities like paragliding, jungle safaris, and kayaking, along with a Digital Tourism Card (e-Card) that unlocks exclusive discounts, rewards, and redeemable travel points. The platform also offers real-time updates on events, attractions, and festivals.
Shri Suneel Anchipaka IAS, Director, Department of Tourism highlighted that LetsGoa represents a major transformation for Goa’s tourism sector, connecting local service providers, tourists, and officials. “With over 100 hotels, 50+ activity providers, and GTDC residencies involved, the platform simplifies bookings and promotes Goa’s rich heritage, wellness, adventure, and hinterland tourism.”
The ceremony also saw the launch of 75 Free Public WiFi Hotspots for seamless digital connectivity, 11 4G BSNL towers to enhance mobile network coverage, and the One Map Goa GIS portal to support efficient spatial planning and infrastructure development.
LetsGoa also serves as a tool to showcase Goa’s cultural heritage. Tourists can explore historic landmarks, attend festivals, and indulge in Goan cuisine through curated recommendations, boosting the local economy while preserving Goa’s authentic charm. With its user-friendly interface, easy payment gateways, and focus on providing unforgettable experiences, LetsGoa is set to become every traveller’s gateway to the soul of Goa
Dharbandora, 26 December 2024: The Dudhsagar Festavista brought Goa’s vibrant culture to life with unforgettable local cultural dances and live performances, and festive cheer. Held on Christmas Day, 25th December 2024, at the scenic Metawado Ground in Collem, this one-day extravaganza was organised by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) and the Department of Tourism. Drawing a remarkable crowd of more than 10,000 attendees, the festival embodied the vibrant and celebratory essence of Goa.
The festival was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including Shri Premendra Shet, Mayem MLA and Chairman of the Goa State Horticulture Corporation; Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, Sanvordem MLA and Chairman GTDC; Shri Gavin Dias, General Manager, GTDC; Laxmikant Vaigankar, General Manager, GTDC, Shri Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager, GTDC; Sandeep Gawas, Deputy General Manager, GTDC and others.
In his address, Sanvordem MLA and Chairman GTDC Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar highlighted the importance of initiatives like Dudhsagar Festavista in promoting Goa’s hinterlands and enhancing tourism experiences. He remarked, “This festival represents another step in GTDC’s commitment to showcasing Goa’s diverse attractions beyond its beaches, emphasizing the state’s cultural richness and natural beauty.”
Mayem MLA and Chairman of the Goa State Horticulture Corporation Shri Premendra Shet emphasized on the significance of the festival in bringing together local communities and fostering a sense of unity. He also highlighted how the event plays a key role in promoting Goan culture and traditions, offering a vibrant platform for cultural expression. Additionally, he spoke about the scenic beauty of Dudhsagar Waterfall, underlining its importance as a major attraction in the region.
Dudhsagar Festavista offered a unique blend of entertainment and culture, featuring an extraordinary lineup of performances by renowned artists. The audience was enthralled by the musical prowess of Band 24K, Kashish and Bollywood Band, DJ Amin, and the comedic brilliance of Ahsaan Qureshi. The lively presence of MC Cedric, who hosted the event with energy and charm, further elevated the festive atmosphere.
The Divli Dance (Lamp Dance) was beautifully performed by the Bal Sati Self-Help Group from Dabal Kirlapal, adding a vibrant cultural touch to the event. Additionally, the students of Our Lady of Piety School, Collem, delivered a compelling act on the theme of “Save the Girl Child,” leaving the audience inspired with their message of awareness.
Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager GTDC, appreciated the efforts of the Chairman of GTDC and the Goa Tourism for hosting such a remarkable event, and acknowledged support of all others dignitaries present on dais in his vote of thanks.
The festival’s serene setting in the hinterland of Goa provided an ideal backdrop for this cultural extravaganza. Visitors were treated to a dynamic fusion of modern entertainment and traditional Goan artistry, making the event a perfect way to celebrate the Christmas spirit.
Dudhsagar Festavista not only captivated its attendees but also reinforced Goa’s image as a destination that goes beyond beaches, focusing on its rich heritage, lush landscapes, and vibrant traditions. This festival marked a milestone in GTDC’s ongoing efforts to bring the spotlight to Goa’s lesser-explored regions, ensuring an immersive and enriching experience for all.
The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, successfully organized Deep Parv 2024 at the picturesque Art Park, Porvorim, on 15th December 2024. The event celebrated Goa’s rich cultural heritage while fostering a spirit of unity and community engagement.
The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, and Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director of the Department of Tourism. Adding to the grandeur, local representatives including Smt. Sonia Pednekar, Socorro sarpanch, Shri Swapnil Chodankar, Penha de Franca sarpanch, Shri Govind Govekar, the Aldona Sarpanch, and all panchayat members from Penha de Franca, Socorro, Salvador do Mundo, and Aldona actively participated in the celebrations. Representing the Department of Tourism were Shri Rajesh Kale, Deputy Director of Tourism, Shri Gavin Dias, General Manager (Marketing), GTDC, Shri Deepak Narvekar, Dy General Manager, Marketing, GTDC, and Shri Sagar Agni, Media Advisor to Tourism, whose presence highlighted the department’s commitment to fostering Goa’s cultural heritage.
The festivities commenced with a series of competitions, which saw enthusiastic participation from locals and visitors. The competitions included: Dance Competition, Fancy Dress Competition, Cookery Competition, Rangoli Competition, and Poster-Making Competition These contests highlighted the creativity and talent within the community, adding vibrancy to the celebrations.
The main event began in the evening with performances by Aarambh, followed by a traditional Ganapati Sthavan by Nirbhaya Bhav Group and a thematic Konkani dance performance. Also Cultural performances showcased by Girish Kala Sanskriti Mandal Sanvordem, including the Kunbi folk dance.
Shri Deepak Narvekar, Dy General Manager, Marketing, GTDC proposed vote of thanks on behalf of Goa Tourism Department.
Highlighting the importance of such initiatives, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, remarked, “Through Deep Parv, we are reinforcing our commitment to promoting Goa’s cultural identity and advancing our vision for Regenerative Tourism. Events like these bridge the gap between heritage and development, showcasing our traditions to both locals and visitors. By celebrating cultural expressions, we are creating opportunities for community engagement, supporting local talent, and driving sustainable tourism initiatives. Deep Parv is more than a festival; it’s a movement that highlights Goa’s dedication to preserving its heritage while fostering economic growth and community welfare.”
Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director of Tourism and Managing Director, GTDC added, “Deep Parv has provided a vital platform for artists to showcase their talents, while encouraging community participation and fostering a sense of belonging. It is our endeavor to preserve and promote Goa’s traditions in a way that benefits both locals and tourists, ensuring that our cultural heritage thrives for generations to come. The Department of Tourism remains steadfast in its efforts to organize events that celebrate Goa’s cultural legacy. ”
The remarkable contributions of Shreya Kambli (Beautician at Carrem), Sangeeta Nilesh Hadfadkar (Founder of a Kids’ School in Carrem), Sunaina Sunil Pednekar (Owner of a Catering Service and Canteen), Smt. Shobha Vazarkar (Owner of a General Store), Shailaza Gauns (Owner of a Supermarket), Sawani Shetye (Historian), and Yogesh Kapdi (Winner of the Goa State Kalavruddhi Award) were celebrated. Felicitated by Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Tourism Minister, their dedication and hard work inspire progress, unity, and tradition in the community.
The evening concluded on a high note with captivating performances, including a Fire Dance, Bollywood dances, and a live music band performance that enthralled the audience.
Deep Parv 2024 was a resounding success, offering a perfect blend of cultural expression, community participation, and joyous celebration. The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, remains dedicated to promoting such initiatives that uphold Goa’s rich cultural legacy while fostering a sense of togetherness.
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