The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, in association with the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) and SKAL International Goa, concluded its month-long landmark celebrations under World Tourism Day 2025, showcasing Goa’s ambitious vision for the future of tourism with the largest ever Tourism Stakeholders Meet at Grand Hyatt Goa.
Tourism Minister, Rohan A. Khaunte along with Director Tourism, Kedar Naik; Managing Director, GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar; TTAG President, Jack Sukhija, SKAL President, Vivek Kerkar, GCCI Chairman, Pratima Dhond; TTAG VP South, Vinay Albuquerque; TTAG VP North, Aakash Madgavkar; Deputy Director, Diksha Tari graced the occasion.
The Meet served as a dynamic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and appreciation toward the tourism industry. Hoteliers, tour operators, travel agents, community-based tourism entrepreneurs, sustainability advocates, and government representatives were also part of this celebration.
Speaking on the occasion, 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.”
Adding that the government has been implementing various initiatives, Khaunte emphasised the transformation of the State. “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, Kedar Naik said: “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.”
A highlight of the day was the presentation of the prestigious Vincent Ramos Scholarship conferred upon two deserving IHM students, Mackenzee Vas and Caitlyn Rosanne Mascarenhas, in the presence of the late Vincent Ramos’ wife, Deena Ramos. The Department of Tourism also felicitated Pele and Parag Ragnekar for their outstanding contribution to Goa Tourism, while Scarlet M. Rose and Moses J. Saldanha were honoured for their efforts and contribution as influencers. In addition, Shishti Sudin Prabhu Desai, Ashrafi Shetdesai Gaikwad and Viraj Phadte received tokens of appreciation for their contributions, and the achievements of Yuva Tourism Clubs were recognised through awards to Shail Sawkar (Sridora Caculo College of Commerce & Management Studies), Lisa Dias (Institute of Hotel Management – Goa) and Dr. Kiran Gaude (P.E.S. Ravi S. Naik College of Arts & Science).
The World Tourism Day celebration is set to conclude with its Grand Finale on Sunday with its one-day Film Festival at ESG-Panaji that will highlight Goa’s unique cultural and natural heritage. These back-to-back flagship events reinforced Goa Tourism’s ongoing commitment to ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’, community-led experiences, and the three pillars of Regenerative Tourism. By converging industry, government, students and communities, the state is charting a holistic path towards sustainable growth, enhancing Goa’s appeal as a year-round tourism destination while protecting its environment and culture.
