On Monday, the state Tourism Minister of Goa, Rohan Khaunte, said that Goa is looking at improving air connectivity with Poland, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. This is in a bid to boost tourism, and the state government has already initiated discussions with the Union government on the same. The air connectivity is expected to be enhanced through both airports in Goa. Here’s everything you must know about this news.
Connecting Goa With Emerging International Tourism Markets
The tourism minister mentioned that, since Goa enjoys a strong global recall, the government wishes to connect it directly with emerging tourism markets. It seeks to go beyond traditional source countries such as Russia and the United Kingdom.
He also informed that a domestic tourist spends three to four nights in Goa, while a foreign tourist spends nine nights. The objective of the government here is to actually convert Goa’s global brand recognition. It wants to encourage longer stays, bring in higher tourist arrivals, and also increase visitor engagement. This will also ensure economic benefits for the local communities.
They are also looking at recommending stronger international connectivity and improved visa facilitation. He also mentioned that Goa’s hotel inventory is on its way to expansion. This is in particular to four-star and five-star properties. The demand for the same is till more than the supply available, said the tourism minister.
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Investments, Initiatives, Incentives And More
In order to attract more foreign tourists, the government had launched a incentive scheme. Launched earlier this year, this incentive scheme is performance-linked (PLI). this scheme offers financial rewards on the actual operational performance of inbound tour operators. This is for international charter flights and looks at boosting Goa’s image as a global destination.
The government is encouraging investments in incentives, exhibitions tourism , conferences. Meetings, cultural tourism, and wedding tourism infrastructure. It is also promoting the various local festivals like Chikhal Kaloand Spirit of Goa and Sao Jaao. This is to make Goa a year-round festival destination.
Tourism contributes to nearly 70 percent of Goa’s economy. It also supports about 4-50 percent of employment in the state. The minister also mentioned that the tourism sector of Goa has evolved in the last few years. It benefits the local communities through taxi services and water sports as well.
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Summing Up
Goa is looking forward to direct air connectivity with Poland, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. The state is currently looking at these emerging international markets to boost tourism.
