Tag: GTDC

Travel

Goa Tourism Showcases ‘Sunshine and More’ at OTDYKH Leisure 2025 in Moscow

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa Tourism made an impressive and impactful presence at OTDYKH Leisure 2025, one of the world’s premier international travel and tourism exhibitions, held at the Timiryazev Exhibition Center in Moscow. With its vibrant and evolving theme, “Sunshine and More in Goa,” the state positioned itself as a year-round destination that offers far more than its celebrated coastline. This strategic showcase was aimed at enhancing Goa’s identity as a hub for sustainable tourism, cultural experiences, wellness retreats, and adventure activities.

The Goa delegation was led by Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, along with Shri Prasad Kavlekar, Senior Manager, Marketing at the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC). Their presence and engagement drew significant attention from international travel professionals, media, trade representatives, and potential partners. On the opening day, Shri Kedar Naik met with Shri Nikhilesh Giri, Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of India in Moscow, deepening Goa’s collaborative ties and reinforcing its focus on global outreach and partnerships.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized that Goa’s presence at OTDYKH is about more than promotion — it’s about transformation. “Goa is moving beyond being just a beach destination. Through ‘Sunshine and More in Goa,’ we are showcasing the state’s evolving identity as a destination rooted in culture, wellness, adventure, and sustainability. Our participation here is about building deeper collaborations and ensuring that Goa remains a preferred choice for quality international travellers,” he stated.

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added that the enthusiastic response on Day 1 validated Goa’s strong recall among global tourists. The Pavilion highlighted regenerative tourism, responsible travel, and authentic experiences that benefit both visitors and local communities. Through a mix of multimedia installations, cultural storytelling, and trade dialogues, Goa showcased its renewed focus on preserving ecosystems, promoting mindful tourism, and empowering rural and coastal communities.

Visitors were offered an immersive experience of Goa’s varied offerings — from serene beachside retreats and luxury hospitality to hinterland adventures, wellness therapies, heritage walks, and culinary trails. The state’s commitment to responsible tourism was at the heart of the pavilion’s message.

As the OTDYKH Leisure 2025 exhibition continues until September 12, the Goa Tourism Pavilion is expected to host further B2B meetings, cultural presentations, and networking events, reinforcing the message that Goa is not just a holiday destination, but a state of mind — one that offers sunshine, soul, and so much more.

EduConnect

Workshop on AI Tools in Education Held at Goa Multi-Faculty College

Tanisha Cardozo

SPES’s Shri Gopal Gaonkar Memorial Goa Multi-Faculty College, in association with TLSC Dharbandora and the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), organized a thought-provoking and hands-on workshop on AI Tools in Education. The event was designed to engage and educate high school and higher secondary students and teachers on the emerging role of artificial intelligence in academic settings.

The workshop was inaugurated by Hon’ble MLA Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, Chairman of GTDC, who shared his vision of future-ready education in Goa. In his address, Dr. Gaonkar emphasized the urgent need to integrate modern technology, especially AI tools, into daily teaching and learning practices. He encouraged teachers to adopt new digital methods to improve classroom engagement and effectiveness and motivated students to explore AI as a powerful tool for self-learning and creativity.

The session included demonstrations of various AI-based tools and platforms that can assist in content creation, personalized learning, evaluation, and virtual collaboration. Experts and facilitators guided participants through interactive examples showing how AI is transforming education across the globe.

With enthusiastic participation from both teachers and students, the workshop served as an inspiring introduction to the limitless possibilities AI offers in education. It also reinforced the college’s commitment to fostering innovation, digital literacy, and forward-thinking approaches in Goa’s academic ecosystem.

The event concluded with a message of continued collaboration and learning, encouraging all attendees to stay curious and proactive in adapting to the evolving technological landscape of education.

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Goa Tourism Hands Over 20 Refurbished Public Toilets to Sulabh for Better Sanitation at Tourist Spots

Tanisha Cardozo

On 4th September 2025, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, took a major step toward enhancing public sanitation by handing over the operation and maintenance of 20 refurbished public toilets across key tourist destinations to Sulabh International Social Service Organization (SISSO). This initiative is closely aligned with the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and Goa’s long-term vision for sustainable tourism and improved public infrastructure.

Previously developed under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), the 21 public convenience blocks spanned prominent tourist zones including Ashwem, Morjim, Anjuna, Candolim, Calangute, Baga, Panaji KTC Bus Stand, Siridao, Margao KTC, Colva, Benaulim, Sernabatim, Fatrade, Varca, Cavelossim, Mobor, and Palolem. However, these facilities had been under the operational charge of M/s. Akatva Speciality Services Pvt. Ltd. since 2021.

Despite initial expectations, the performance of the operator fell significantly short. Issues ranged from non-maintenance and delays in constructing new toilets to a complete lack of surveillance and non-payment of license fees. This led to the termination of the agreement by GTDC in June 2024, following legal proceedings where the operator also failed to fulfill interim arbitration conditions. GTDC subsequently repossessed all 20 toilet blocks, secured the sites through official panchanamas, and arranged for temporary security to prevent further degradation.

In response to growing tourist demand and the importance of clean sanitation facilities in a coastal destination like Goa, the government took swift action to refurbish the facilities and hand over their upkeep to Sulabh International—a nationally recognized organization known for its expertise in public sanitation. The toilets located at high-traffic areas such as Baga, Colva, Morjim, Siridao, Sernabatim, Varca, Mobor, Cavelossim, and Fatorda are now operational under a “pay and use” model managed by Sulabh. In one unique instance, the Candolim panchayat has been entrusted with refurbishing and managing the toilet block in their jurisdiction.

The handover is initially set for a period of three months and may be extended for another three months based on performance and outcomes. This initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment not only to maintaining hygienic public spaces but also to creating a positive impression for both domestic and international tourists visiting the state.

By ensuring that these essential services are managed by capable hands, Goa is reinforcing its position as a clean, safe, and sustainable tourism destination, while setting a model for effective public-private partnerships in infrastructure management.

Events in Goa

Hon’ble MLA Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar Felicitates Inspiring Citizens on Independence Day

Tanisha Cardozo

As the tricolour soared high and hearts swelled with pride on India’s 79th Independence Day, the occasion was marked by a special celebration of service and excellence by Hon’ble MLA Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar, Chairman of the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC).

In a heartening ceremony, Dr. Gaonkar felicitated remarkable individuals from various walks of life — each representing the core values of dedication, service, innovation, and patriotism that strengthen the foundation of our Bharat.

Celebrating Unsung Heroes

Among the honourees were:

  • 🌿 A committed social worker whose community efforts continue to uplift the underprivileged.
  • 🩺 A selfless doctor, dedicating time and expertise to the health and well-being of local residents.
  • 🛠️ An engineer, contributing to technological innovation and regional development.

These individuals have proven that service beyond self is the true essence of patriotism.

Saluting Future Leaders

Dr. Gaonkar also had the joy of honouring young students, including winners of the prestigious Talent Search Examination, who have demonstrated academic brilliance and discipline. Their achievements stand as a testament to the promising future of our nation.

A Message of Unity and Hope

In his address, Dr. Gaonkar emphasized that Independence Day is not only a time to remember our freedom fighters, but also to recognize those who actively contribute to the ongoing progress and integrity of our society.

Commemorating the Spirit of the Nation

As we look ahead, such recognitions remind us that true celebration lies in unity, perseverance, and collective growth. May the stories of these changemakers inspire us all to contribute meaningfully to the development of our society.

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Goa Tourism Wins Excellence Award for ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ Campaign at TTF Ahmedabad 2025

allycaralgoa

Panjim, 2nd August 2025 – The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, concluded its participation at the Travel & Tourism Fair (TTF) Ahmedabad 2025 on a high note, receiving the Excellence Award for the Special Campaign on ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’. The recognition was presented at the Mahatma Mandir Convention & Exhibition Centre, Gandhinagar, where the event was held from 31st July to 2nd August 2025.

Led by Shri Pravinkumar Faldessai, Senior Manager, GTDC, along with Smt. Concy Pereira, Asst. Tourism Officer, and Smt. Isabelinda Vaz, Information Assistant, the Goa delegation engaged extensively with travel agents, tour operators, and media partners throughout the three-day event.

Commenting on the achievement, Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, said “We are honoured to receive this recognition at TTF Ahmedabad 2025. The ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ campaign is part of our mission to create a more inclusive, responsible, and diversified tourism experience. This award validates our ongoing efforts to make Goa a 12-month destination anchored in sustainability, culture, and community participation.”

This accolade reflects Goa Tourism’s strategic efforts to reposition the state as a destination that offers more than just sun and sand. The award celebrates the Department’s continued commitment to regenerative tourism, highlighting experiences that span heritage, hinterlands, culture, festivals, and community-led initiatives.

The Goa Pavilion drew significant attention for its immersive storytelling, featuring curated themes around wellness and Ayurveda, spiritual tourism, adventure and monsoon travel, and community-based rural experiences. The display also spotlighted Goa’s vibrant festival calendar, from Chikhal Kalo and Sao Joao to Shigmo, Spirit of Goa, and Carnaval, all of which are attracting experiential travellers from across India.

The Department’s presence at TTF Ahmedabad forms part of its broader outreach strategy to reinforce Goa’s position as a future-ready destination that blends tradition with innovation.