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.
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.
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.”
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.
The Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI), established on 3rd September 1908, proudly celebrates 117 years of unwavering service to Goa’s economy. As one of India’s oldest regional chambers, GCCI has been a constant in the state’s transformation—from the Portuguese colonial period to post-liberation development. Over more than a century, it has consistently advocated for pro-business policies, strengthened Goa’s industrial base, and nurtured its social fabric.
Under the leadership of its first-ever woman President, Mrs. Pratima Dhond, the Chamber steps into its 118th year with renewed energy and direction. Throughout its journey, GCCI has been a dynamic bridge between businesses and government, influencing policy, infrastructure, and institutional development. Its contributions span diverse sectors including trade, tourism, shipping, mining, manufacturing, IT, and sustainability.
Central to GCCI’s mission is support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs)—the bedrock of Goa’s economy. Through mentoring, training workshops, and strategic partnerships with institutions like GIM and EDC, the Chamber has built a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Its Women’s Wing continues to empower women-led enterprises through signature events such as Asturi and Business Diva. Initiatives like the ‘Leaders@GCCI’ series have brought national thinkers to the state, encouraging dialogue that connects local challenges to global trends.
GCCI is also deeply invested in sustainable business practices and has played a proactive role in aligning academic programs with industry needs. A notable initiative is the launch of the B.Com (Retail) course at S S Dempo College, enabled by GCCI’s Retail Committee, highlighting its commitment to skill development.
Among its milestone contributions, GCCI’s involvement in formulating the Goa IT Policy and supporting infrastructure like the Manohar International Airport at Mopa has been pivotal. Through MoUs with international chambers, GCCI continues to foster global business linkages and knowledge exchange.
As it moves forward, GCCI remains committed to driving inclusive and sustainable growth. With a focus on women-led enterprises, innovation, and strategic collaboration, the Chamber reaffirms its role as a key driver of Goa’s progress and a symbol of enduring leadership.
