Goa's Tourism Strategy: Beyond Beaches and Into New Horizons

Goa's Tourism Minister, Rohan Khaunte, announced a new initiative targeting countries and airlines that attract high-spending tourists, alongside mandatory guest data uploads to the TIME software. The strategy aims to diversify international arrivals beyond traditional markets like the UK and Russia, promoting Goa's appeal beyond its beaches.

In a bid to transform Goa's tourism landscape, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte unveiled plans to reward airlines and nations drawing high-spending tourists. The move forms part of a broader strategy to expand Goa's global appeal.

From April 1, hotels and guesthouses must enter guest data into the TIME software system, aligning with the state's digital transformation in tourism management. This mandate comes amidst claims of misleading reports about declining tourist numbers, which Khaunte countered with high occupancy statistics from late 2024.

The state is revising its outreach to include countries like Poland and Kazakhstan, diversifying away from dependence on UK and Russian tourists. Enhanced air connectivity and e-visa policies are also on the agenda, with recent talks with the Union Civil Aviation Minister highlighting a potential open sky policy.

(With inputs from agencies.)