Goa Tourism Faces Threats from Proposed Bill, TTAG Raises Alarm

The Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) met with Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao to express concerns over a proposed Bill by the Tourism Department, which they believe could harm the industry. The bill focuses on penalties and government control, diverging from 2020's Tourism Policy.

The Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG), represented by former President Savio Messias, Tito Goes, and Aakash Madgavkar, met with Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao at his Chamber in the Assembly Complex Porvorim. They submitted a memorandum highlighting various issues plaguing the tourism sector. According to TTAG, the proposed bill by the Tourism Department offers a disorganized framework that would damage rather than improve the tourism industry in Goa. The memorandum claims the bill mainly discusses penalties, fines, and fees, which would escalate costs and increase government control over the sector.

TTAG pointed out several deviations in the proposed bill compared to the Tourism Policy 2020, particularly concerning the representation of local tourism stakeholders. Provisions in the bill for some national bodies, which have no significant role in Goa's tourism sector, were highlighted as another point of contention. High taxation and the imposition of development and sustainability fees are also cited as draconian measures, added Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao.

"The BJP government has already devastated the mining industry in Goa. Now, they seem intent on ruining the tourism industry. Their main objective appears to be the sale of Goan land to crony capitalists from Delhi. I will address this issue in the upcoming Assembly session and demand an explanation from the Government," said Yuri Alemao. "The tourism sector is facing severe challenges due to the government's faulty policies. Today, the delegation from TTAG met with me to highlight their problems and voice concerns over the proposed Tourism Bill. I will strongly advocate for the tourism stakeholders during the Assembly session," added Yuri Alemao.

(With inputs from agencies.)