The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in collaboration with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) and SKAL International Goa, concluded its month-long celebrations for World Tourism Day 2025 with the largest ever Tourism Stakeholders’ Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa.
The event brought together key leaders including Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik, GTDC Managing Director Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, TTAG President Shri Jack Sukhija, SKAL President Shri Vivek Kerkar, GCCI Chairperson Smt. Pratima Dhond, and others. Hoteliers, tour operators, community tourism entrepreneurs, sustainability advocates, and government representatives also joined the celebrations.
Speaking on the occasion, Hon’ble Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte said, “This is a day of gratitude and celebration, a gratitude to the entrepreneurs, drivers, fishermen, lifeguards and all the invisible hands that power this industry. Tourism is not run by the Department or industry alone; it is an ecosystem along with communities. This year’s theme is a call to action. Goa’s tourism story is not only about its hostels but also its kitchens. Our food is a bridge between the past and the future. Being a culinary capital of India, our cuisine is a gateway to culture. This diversity coexisting is what sets Goa apart.”
He further added, “The progress we celebrate today is possible thanks to the ‘double engine sarkar’ under the guidance of our Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi Ji and constant support from Chief Minister, Shri Pramod Sawant, we are proudly a part of the central flagship programs like the Unity Mall at Chimbel, the Porvorim Town Square, the Shivaji Maharaja Digital Museum and the Swadesh Darshan projects. Goa’s circuits are being strengthened with central support which makes Goa inclusive, sustainable and world class. We have proved that Goa is a year-round destination with new flights and interest from key markets while countering misinformation with facts. ‘Chalo India, Dekho Apna Desh’ and ‘Viksit Bharat2047’ are national calls to action and Goa is proud to contribute to that journey. Our ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ commitment is to make visitors experience our culture, tradition, food and regenerative practices. The Goan identity and culture cannot be separated — they are one. As we look ahead, the door of tourism is the door of storytelling with the community and stakeholders. ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, Guest is Goa, and ‘Seva Devo Bhava’, Service is Divine. If we remember this, Goa will shine as an inclusive destination for the world.”
Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik highlighted the spirit of collaboration, stating, “Through these recognitions, we are not just honouring individual achievements but celebrating the collective spirit that drives Goa’s tourism forward. Whether it is the passion of our students, the dedication of our professionals, or the creativity of our influencers, each contribution strengthens the foundation of a more inclusive, sustainable, and regenerative tourism ecosystem in Goa. The Department of Tourism remains committed to nurturing such talent and partnerships that will continue to shape Goa’s position as a global tourism leader.”
As part of the felicitation ceremony, the prestigious Shri Vincent Ramos Scholarship was awarded to IHM students Shri Mackenzee Vas and Smt. Caitlyn Rosanne Mascarenhas. Other recognitions included Shri Pele and Shri Parag Ragnekar for their contributions to Goa Tourism; Smt. Scarlet M. Rose and Shri Moses J. Saldanha as influencers; and Smt. Shishti Sudin Prabhu Desai, Smt. Ashrafi Shetdesai Gaikwad, and Shri Viraj Phadte for their efforts. Awards were also presented to Yuva Tourism Club achievers Shri Shail Sawkar, Smt. Lisa Dias, and Dr. Kiran Gaude.
The celebrations will conclude with a Grand Finale Film Festival at ESG, showcasing Goa’s cultural and natural heritage. These events highlighted Goa Tourism’s commitment to “Goa Beyond Beaches,” promoting community-led experiences and regenerative tourism while strengthening Goa’s appeal as a sustainable, year-round destination.
