The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, recently engaged in a significant meeting with senior officials from the Government of Madhya Pradesh to explore collaborative opportunities in tourism, focusing on heritage, wildlife, and cultural experiences. The discussions centered on creating synergy between the two States to promote two-way tourism, encouraging visitors from Madhya Pradesh to explore Goa’s diverse tourism offerings and facilitating travel from Goa to Madhya Pradesh to experience its rich heritage and wildlife destinations.
The meeting saw participation from key tourism officials including Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, Shri Gavin Dias, General Manager (Hotels & Marketing), GTDC, and Shri Jack Sukhija, President of TTAG, alongside Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, IAS, Principal Secretary, Culture, Tourism & Public Relations, Government of Madhya Pradesh.
Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating that it strengthens efforts to promote tourism beyond beaches, offering travellers deeper access to heritage and cultural narratives. He noted that Goa and Madhya Pradesh share complementary tourism profiles that can benefit both regions through collaborative circuits, knowledge sharing, and enhanced visitor experiences, aiming for tourism that is meaningful, responsible, and driven by community participation.
Shri Kedar Naik highlighted that the exchange of ideas with Madhya Pradesh opened avenues for joint product development in heritage and cultural tourism. The States are exploring curated experiences that encourage visitors to immerse themselves in the cultural richness of both regions. Madhya Pradesh has extended an invitation to the Director of Tourism, Government of Goa, along with tourism trade stakeholders, to visit the State in the coming quarter for further discussions and planning.
In return, Goa is preparing to host tourism trade representatives from Madhya Pradesh to strengthen heritage and cultural tourism initiatives. Both Governments are focused on improving visitor experiences, expanding tourism circuits, and fostering cultural appreciation. The collaboration is expected to generate mutually beneficial tourism growth, promote sustainable practices, and support local communities while enhancing domestic travel networks.
This partnership reflects a shared vision to celebrate cultural roots, develop meaningful tourism products, and create travel experiences that connect people with the heritage, wildlife, and culture of Goa and Madhya Pradesh alike.
