Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Goa has been allocated more than ₹258 crore under various Union tourism schemes over the past two years, with the funding earmarked for projects ranging from beach and ecotourism development to heritage conservation and public infrastructure.
The allocations form part of a nationwide programme under which the Union Ministry of Tourism has approved 117 projects worth ₹5,756.62 crore to improve tourism infrastructure, create better visitor amenities and promote destinations across India.
Among the projects approved for Goa are two initiatives under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 programme. The Centre has sanctioned ₹24.07 crore for developing the Porvorim Creek Experience and ₹19.88 crore for the Colva Beach Experience, with both proposals receiving approval in August 2024.
Goa has also received support under the Challenge-Based Destination Development Scheme, with ₹9.81 crore sanctioned in March 2025 for transforming Mayem Village into an ecotourism destination and undertaking beautification and infrastructure works at Harvalem Waterfall.
To strengthen religious and heritage tourism, the Ministry approved ₹16.46 crore under the PRASHAD programme for infrastructure development at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Goa’s most visited landmarks.
The state has further benefited from the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) scheme. Under this initiative, the Centre has approved ₹97.46 crore for the proposed Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum in Ponda and ₹90.74 crore for the Townsquare project in Porvorim.
According to the Ministry, these projects are aimed at improving tourism infrastructure, preserving cultural and natural attractions, expanding visitor facilities and supporting sustainable tourism-led economic growth across the state.
