Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Goa is strengthening its push to emerge as a global gateway destination by expanding international air connectivity and targeting new source markets, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte has said.
Speaking at a tourism conclave fireside chat, the Minister said the state government has initiated discussions with the Union government to enhance air connectivity through its two airports, with a focus on opening direct routes to emerging international markets such as Poland, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, alongside traditional feeder markets like the UK and Russia.
Highlighting Goa’s strong global brand recall, Khaunte said the objective is to convert awareness into higher tourist arrivals, longer stays and greater economic benefits for local communities. He noted that international tourists currently stay for an average of nine nights in Goa, compared to three to four nights for domestic visitors.
The state has also rolled out a performance-linked incentive (PLI) scheme earlier this year to boost inbound charter flights, offering financial incentives to tour operators based on actual passenger arrivals and load factors.
On investment and infrastructure, the Minister said Goa’s hotel inventory continues to expand, particularly in the four-star and five-star segments, but demand still exceeds supply. He said the government is actively encouraging investments in MICE tourism, weddings, cultural tourism and supporting infrastructure through public-private partnerships.
Khaunte also highlighted efforts to position Goa as a year-round festival destination by promoting both international events such as IFFI and the Goa Carnival, as well as traditional festivals like São João and Chikhal Kalo.
Calling Goa India’s first state to promote regenerative tourism, he said tourism contributes nearly 70% to the state’s economy and supports a significant share of employment, making inclusivity and community participation central to policy.
On concerns around transport and tourist mobility, the Minister said the sector has evolved organically over decades, with local communities becoming active stakeholders. He assured that the government is working on technology-driven and transparent solutions to further improve the system.
“As tourism evolves, we are balancing transformation with inclusiveness so that local communities continue to benefit,” he said, adding that visible improvements would be seen in the coming period.
