‘Focus is on strengthening position as year-round tourism destination’ - Tourism ministers’ conference

Panaji: At the tourism ministers’ conference that concluded in Udaipur on Wednesday, the tourism department emphasised its commitment to enhancing infrastructure and tourist safety.

The department proposed to build a 20,000-seat performance arena at Mandrem and a museum and lifescape project dedicated to Lord Parshuram at Loliem.“Our focus is on strengthening the state’s position as a year-round tourism destination by integrating infrastructure enhancement, heritage conservation, and cutting-edge digital solutions for improved visitor engagement and safety. The performance arena and Lord Parshuram statue and museum will bring economic opportunities to local communities and elevate Goa’s position on the world tourism map,” said tourism director Kedar Naik.Goa’s presentation listed eco and nature-based tourism, backwater experiences, heritage and culture, meetings and conventions, adventure tourism, leisure and entertainment, and wellness and spiritual tourism as seven focus areas for tourism development.In his address, tourism minister Rohan Khaunte said Goa’s tourism strategy aims to balance economic development with environmental protection and community participation. “Our new destination development projects in Pernem and Canacona will redefine Goa’s tourism landscape, supporting both community and economic growth while staying true to our commitment to sustainability,” said Khaunte.