Tag: SKAL Goa

Travel

Goa Tourism Celebrates World Tourism Day 2025 with Grand Stakeholders’ Meet and Felicitations

Tanisha Cardozo

On September 27, 2025, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in association with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) and SKAL International Goa, marked the culmination of month-long World Tourism Day celebrations with the largest-ever Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa. The event brought together key leaders from the government, tourism industry, academia, influencers, and community-based tourism networks for a day of reflection, recognition, and renewed vision.

The Hon’ble Tourism Minister, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, delivered a powerful address underlining the essential ecosystem that powers Goa’s tourism — from entrepreneurs and hoteliers to drivers, lifeguards, fishermen, and culinary professionals. Highlighting this year’s theme, he spoke about tourism not just as a business, but as a cultural expression and a shared identity that weaves together stories of the past and aspirations for the future. Emphasizing that Goa is more than just a beach destination, he reiterated the government’s commitment to making Goa a year-round, sustainable, and inclusive destination through initiatives like Unity Mall, Porvorim Town Square, and the Shivaji Maharaja Digital Museum under the Swadesh Darshan program.

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, further emphasized that the recognitions awarded on this day were not merely about individual accomplishments but were a celebration of the collective energy that drives Goa’s tourism forward. From students and professionals to influencers and tourism clubs, each individual recognized reflects Goa’s future as a regenerative tourism hub.

The prestigious Shri Vincent Ramos Scholarship was awarded to two meritorious students from the Institute of Hotel Management — Mackenzee Vas and Caitlyn Rosanne Mascarenhas — in the presence of Smt. Deena Ramos, honoring the late visionary’s legacy. Felicitations were also extended to Shri Pele and Shri Parag Ragnekar for their invaluable contributions to Goa Tourism. Noted influencers Smt. Scarlet M. Rose and Shri Moses J. Saldanha were recognized for their unique role in amplifying Goa’s tourism narrative. Additional appreciation was given to Smt. Shishti Sudin Prabhu Desai, Smt. Ashrafi Shetdesai Gaikwad, and Shri Viraj Phadte for their outstanding support.

Youth Tourism Clubs played a pivotal role in the celebrations, and their achievements were recognized through awards to Shri Shail Sawkar of Sridora Caculo College, Smt. Lisa Dias of IHM-Goa, and Dr. Kiran Gaude of P.E.S. Ravi S. Naik College.

The World Tourism Day celebrations will officially conclude with a Grand Finale one-day Film Festival at the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), featuring films that celebrate Goa’s rich cultural and natural heritage. These efforts, led by the Department of Tourism, serve to amplify Goa’s broader vision of “Goa Beyond Beaches,” where tourism becomes a tool for storytelling, regeneration, and inclusive growth.

As stakeholders converged across disciplines and interests, the spirit of collaboration and gratitude defined the day — reinforcing Goa’s role as a global tourism leader embracing innovation, sustainability, and culture.

Travel

Goa Tourism Highlights Regenerative Tourism Through Rural & Heritage Experiences on World Tourism Day 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Panaji, 26th September 2025 – As part of the World Tourism Day 2025 celebrations, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) and SKAL International Goa, curated a vibrant set of immersive experiences focused on community, culture, and sustainability.

A highlight of the celebrations was the rural tourism experience at Mulgao Village. Visitors were guided through a traditional coconut farm where they learned about the production of Virgin Coconut Oil and were introduced to local deities and folk legends that form part of the region’s intangible heritage. The serene natural surroundings and storytelling format gave participants an intimate glimpse into Goa’s agrarian traditions and regenerative tourism practices.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, expressed, “Through such rural experiences, we are showcasing Goa’s authentic culture and supporting local communities. Mulgao exemplifies how heritage and livelihood can go hand in hand when tourism is designed responsibly.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added, “The enthusiastic participation in the Mulgao Village Experience demonstrates the growing appeal of community-based tourism. We will continue to curate such experiences across Goa to highlight our state’s diversity and sustainability practices.”

In parallel, Goa Tourism also organized a special Hop-On Hop-Off (HOHO) Bus Tour for children from Bal Bhavan. This initiative offered young students an exciting, educational journey through key tourist attractions across North Goa. The Hon’ble Minister also took the opportunity to interact with the children and handed out Goa Tourism caps as a souvenir of their experience.

The day’s activities were designed to highlight the broader vision of “Goa Beyond Beaches” and reflect the Department’s commitment to regenerative tourism that prioritizes cultural preservation, environmental care, and inclusive community participation.

Looking ahead, Goa Tourism has lined up a series of events as part of the extended World Tourism Day celebrations. These include scenic boat cruises, a Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa, and a special film festival at ESG that will showcase Goa’s heritage and conservation narratives.

The 2025 edition of World Tourism Day serves as a reaffirmation of Goa’s evolving role as a model for sustainable and community-led tourism in India.

Films

Goa to Spotlight Its Soul Through Cinema at Heritage for Sustainability Film Festival

Tanisha Cardozo

Cinema is about storytelling, and on September 28, 2025, Goa will tell its story through 13 compelling films and documentaries at the Heritage for Sustainability Film Festival. Organized by non-profit Heritage First Goa (HFG) in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), SKAL International Goa, and Goa Tourism, the one-day festival will be hosted at the ESG auditorium in Panaji as part of the state’s extended World Tourism Day celebrations.

The festival brings together a curated selection of films created by Goan filmmakers, each reflecting the intricate connections between Goa’s cultural heritage, its natural environment, and the sense of belonging rooted in its land. Titles like Bread & Belonging, Islands on the Island, The Birdman of Chorao, Kharvan, I Am Nothing, and Caazu promise to engage audiences in meaningful dialogue through cinematic expression. These narratives will be brought to life not only through the screen but also via panel discussions and live interactions with the filmmakers themselves.

According to Heta Pandit, Director of Heritage First Goa, the festival is a way to deepen the understanding of Goa beyond its party and beach image. “Goa gets lakhs of tourists every year. We want to highlight that Goa is more than just a commodity — it is fragile, layered, and deserving of respect,” she said. Filmmaker Gasper De Souza believes the festival will give younger voices an important platform, while Sonia Filinto, director of Bread & Belonging, emphasizes the need for conversations that bring together people who care about Goa’s future.

The Heritage for Sustainability Film Festival offers a unique blend of storytelling, reflection, and community engagement. Tickets are priced affordably at ₹250 for general admission and ₹150 for students, with a flexible ‘pay as you like’ option to encourage wider participation and support for HFG’s future initiatives.

As part of World Tourism Day, this film festival is not just an event—it is a call to view Goa with fresh eyes and to preserve what makes it truly Goan.

Travel

Goa Tourism Engages Youth with Electric Cycle Tour & Bread-Making Experience under Yuva Tourism Club

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Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

Panjim, 17th September 2025 – As part of the month-long build-up to World Tourism Day 2025, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), SKAL International Goa, and the Yuva Tourism Club, conducted two immersive student activities: an Electric Cycle Tour at Chorao and a “Life of Pao” Bread-Making Experience at Parvatibai Chowgule College of Arts and Science, Devorlim.

The initiatives are designed to promote regenerative and experiential tourism, while building awareness among youth about Goa’s natural and cultural heritage.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, said:

“Through activities like today’s Electric Cycle Tour and Bread-Making Experience, we want to engage the youth in authentic experiences and instill in them a sense of ownership towards Goa’s heritage, ecology and traditions. This aligns with our vision to make Goa a model for regenerative tourism.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added:

“These hands-on programmes are more than just excursions; they are an educational journey for students, sensitising them to sustainability, local livelihoods and community engagement.”

The Electric Cycle Tour at Chorao offered students an opportunity to explore Goa’s ecology, biodiversity, and village landscapes in a sustainable manner. Meanwhile, the Life of Pao Bread-Making Experience immersed them in Goa’s culinary traditions, teaching them the cultural significance and heritage of the iconic Goan bread.

With the participation of colleges and schools through the Yuva Tourism Club, these initiatives are shaping the next generation of responsible travellers who appreciate the importance of sustainability, community, and cultural preservation.

The Department of Tourism will continue hosting a series of programs throughout September, leading up to special events and grand celebrations on World Tourism Day 2025.

Travel

Goa Tourism Unveils Immersive and Inclusive Experiences Ahead of World Tourism Day 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

In the lead-up to World Tourism Day 2025 on September 27, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has launched an ambitious month-long celebration in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), SKAL International Goa, and the Yuva Tourism Clubs across the state. This comprehensive series of activities reflects Goa’s progressive vision for sustainable, inclusive, and experiential tourism.

The month of September has been transformed into a canvas for immersive, localised experiences that showcase the state’s rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, culinary traditions, and community spirit. These efforts are part of Goa’s broader commitment to regenerative tourism, where travel experiences are designed not just to entertain but to positively impact both visitors and host communities.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, noted that the initiative aims to showcase Goa as a year-round destination with authentic experiences. He emphasized the role of youth in driving this change, highlighting the Yuva Tourism Club’s involvement in fostering a culture of responsible travel. Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, reiterated the state’s holistic approach — blending heritage, nature, gastronomy, and inclusive events — to create a vibrant and future-ready tourism landscape.

The public is invited to take part in a variety of curated experiences such as a Bioluminescence Forest Walk, Cruise & Kayaking Trail, Folgar forest picnics, heritage walks at Monte Santo and Aguad, and traditional bread-making workshops. A visit to the Mulgao Folk Village will immerse participants in local customs, music and coconut farming techniques. Each activity is designed to engage both tourists and residents, creating opportunities for shared discovery and cultural exchange.

At the heart of the celebration is youth engagement. Through the Yuva Tourism Club, these experiences are being introduced to students in schools and colleges across Goa to raise awareness about sustainability and instill pride in local culture. The calendar includes a biodiversity walk at Carambolim Lake, electric cycle tours, and hands-on culinary activities that allow students to engage with Goa’s unique ecological and culinary identity.

Culinary enthusiasts can look forward to cooking competitions hosted at IIHM Goa and IHM Goa on various dates, inviting participants to explore the depth and diversity of Goan cuisine. These events aim to bridge traditional food knowledge with modern gastronomy, sparking creativity and cultural appreciation among the youth.

In a significant move toward inclusive tourism, the Department of Tourism will host two special boat cruises — one on September 26 for persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and children from orphanages, and another on September 27 dedicated to special children from Rotary institutions. These events underscore Goa’s commitment to making tourism accessible to all, irrespective of age or ability.

On World Tourism Day, September 27, the state will also host its largest Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa. The event will feature the presentation of the Vincent Ramos Scholarship and a key announcement — the launch of Goa’s dedicated MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) Promotion Bureau, a strategic move to position the state as a premier destination for business tourism.

The celebrations will conclude on September 28 with a special one-day Film Festival at the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), showcasing heritage-themed films that focus on sustainability, community engagement, and conservation.

This year’s World Tourism Day theme in Goa is not just about attracting tourists — it’s about reimagining what tourism can mean for local communities, the environment, and future generations. The Department of Tourism invites everyone — residents, students, visitors, and stakeholders — to experience Goa through a fresh, immersive, and meaningful lens.