Goemkarponn desk
PORVORIM: Despite teh dwindling numbers of national and international tourists, the Tourism department says it has taken various steps, including bearing a part of parking and landing fees at Dabolim Airport.
“Tourism Department undertakes marketing and promotional activities within India and Abroad to increase the flow of tourists in the State. Goa Tourism Policy, Tourism Master Plan and Goa Tourism Board have been formed to boost the tourism sector in the State,” said Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte replying to a question tabled by Alexio Reginald Lourenco.
He further said in order to encourage the entry of more international chartered flights and tourists into the State, Government has started bearing a part of parking and landing fees at Dabolim Airport.
As a part of a promotional campaign, he said, the State Department of Tourism and the travel trade have participated in important international and domestic travel Marts/Exhibitions, except for the last two years, the international participation was restricted.
“In addition, Road Shows have also been organized in international markets. The Department has printed and distributed brochures in foreign and English languages,” he said.
Further, to create awareness about Tourism in the State, this Department has released advertisements in various National and International magazines, newspapers, etc. Besides, advertisement has also been released on national and international TV channels in English and local foreign language stated.
Besides the above, efforts were initiated to extend the facility of issue of visas on arrival facility to all countries.
Further, to promote tourism in the Hinterland & Backwaters, the following new tourism services are developed :
1) B: Live – E-Bike Tours,
2) Hot Air Ballooning,
3) Scuba diving, etc.
4) Bungee Jumping
“Tourism infrastructure development proposals are actively considered so that amenities like Parking lots, lighting, seating arrangements, beautification of tourism sites and monuments, construction of convention centre at Patto, up gradation and beautification of the jetty at Dona Paula, renovation of Fort Aguada jail museum, parking lots at various beaches etc. are created under State and Central funding,” he said.
Khaunte also said that Department has deployed 450 lifeguards at all beaches in Goa for lifeguarding activities.
Department has deployed 224 nos cleaning staff to undertake effective beach cleaning services on all beaches of Goa.
Department has commenced the process of appointing a world-class PR agency to create a positive image of the State among foreign and domestic tourists and also to convey the message of a safe and responsible tourism destination, he said.
“Department organizes traditional events like Carnaval, Shigmo, Grape escapade, Spirit of Goa Festival, Vintage car and bike festival to promote the festival and cultural tourism in Goa, he stated.
He said there is no Taluka-wise allotment of funds. “However, the total funds allocated in the budget is Rs. 24716.20 lakhs,” Khaunte stated.
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