In a significant development aimed at positioning Goa as a hub for wellness and holistic health tourism, Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte announced that the State will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with B.S.P’s Gomantak Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya & Research Centre (GAM&RC), Shiroda. The MoU is set to serve as an umbrella for future collaborative initiatives in Ayurvedic research, education, and integrative health tourism.
The announcement was made during the 10th Ayurveda Day celebrations, held under the theme “Ayurveda for People and Planet.” The event underscored GAM&RC’s dedication to promoting sustainable healthcare solutions rooted in ancient wisdom, adapted for the modern world.
A landmark moment in the event was the inauguration of Goa’s first Cancer OPD in Ayurveda. This facility opens new avenues for integrative cancer care, where patients can access support that blends traditional Ayurvedic principles with modern medical frameworks. This approach not only addresses physical health but also emphasizes mental and emotional wellbeing, offering a holistic pathway to healing for patients and their families.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, the Chief Guest at the event, praised the institute’s legacy of producing over 1,000 graduates and its ongoing contribution to healthcare and community service. Highlighting the institute’s impact on women’s empowerment and Ayurvedic tourism, he emphasized the need for innovation and integration of technology in the wellness sector. “In a developed India, people are actively seeking holistic alternatives. With awareness rising and choices expanding, wellness has become not just a personal goal but a lifestyle,” he stated.
The ceremony was attended by a host of dignitaries including Shri Subhash Shirodkar, Minister for Water Resources and Corporation, who served as Guest of Honour. Other attendees included Dr. Yogesh Bendale of Ayurved Rasayani, Pune, Dr. Sneha Bhagwat, President of Goa Council of Ayurveda, and Adv. Narendra K. Sawaikar, President of Bharateeya Sanskriti Prabodhini, alongside senior faculty of GAM&RC.
The State’s collaboration with GAM&RC is seen as a forward-thinking step to leverage Goa’s natural, cultural, and educational assets in Ayurveda. By integrating traditional knowledge with tourism infrastructure, the government aims to attract both domestic and international visitors seeking authentic, regenerative experiences.
This partnership reflects Goa’s commitment to nurturing skilled Ayurvedic professionals, boosting local employment, and positioning the state as a national leader in wellness tourism—offering much more than just scenic beaches, but a complete ecosystem for healing, learning, and sustainable living.
