Department of Tourism, Goa, on Tuesday announced the successful signing of the Taj Aguada Plateau Supplemental Lease Deed, a key milestone in enhancing the region’s tourism infrastructure. The ceremony was held on 13th August at Mantralaya, Porvorim, in the presence of Chief Minister, Dr. Pramod Sawant, Tourism Minister, Rohan A. Khaunte, and Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, Dr. V. Candavelou, IAS, Director Tourism.
The signing was done by Director Tourism, Suneel Anchipaka, IAS and Rajendra Misra, Executive Vice President & General Counsel, and Prabhat Verma, Executive Vice President (Operations, South India, International & Expressions), from the Indian Hotels Company Limited, along with the presence of Puneet Chattwal, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Ranjit Phillipose, Senior Vice President (Operations, Goa), Ashwani Anand, General Manager, Taj Cidade De Goa and Aejaz Shaikh, Director of Sales & Marketing, Taj Cidade De Goa.
With the signing of the Supplemental Lease Deed, IHCL will develop a well known Wellness, Ayurveda, Yoga-Centric, Cultural Goan Spectacle, recreation and Immersive Plan for Aguada Plateau, Goa which will be of International standards with allied facilities which would entice high end tourists to the State, says a press release.
This landmark agreement underscores the commitment of both the Goa government and the Taj Group to enhance the state’s tourism landscape, providing visitors with world-class experiences while preserving the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. By signing the lease, the aim is to facilitate further investments in the tourism sector, creating opportunities for local employment and sustainable economic growth.
Dr. Sawant expressed the Department of Tourism’s resolve, stating “The Government of Goa has taken a big step with this Lease Deed with Indian Hotels Company Limited. All issues that were resurfaced have now been resolved and this agreement has been signed. The signing reaffirms the commitment to delivering exceptional experiences while preserving the unique charm of Goa like wellness, ayurveda, cultural and more of the Regenerative Tourism themes. We look forward to continuing this collaboration with the Indian Hotels Company Limited to further enrich the region’s new tourism offerings and contribute positively to its sustainable development.”
Khaunte stated “The signing marks a new era for tourism in Goa. We are committed to creating a robust infrastructure that supports sustainable tourism while celebrating our state’s unique heritage. This agreement with the IHCL Taj Group will enhance Goa’s appeal as a global tourism hotspot, benefiting both our economy and local communities.”
Anchipaka, IAS, Director Tourism & Managing Director GTDC stated “We are thrilled to reach this pivotal Lease Deed with The Indian Hotels Company Limited Taj Group. The signing for the Taj Aguada Plateau represents a major step forward in our vision to develop Goa as a premier global tourism destination. This partnership will not only enhance our infrastructure but also create lasting economic benefits for our local communities. Our focus is to promote wellness tourism, ayurveda and Regenerative Tourism and other facets of tourism which Goa has to offer to bring more quality tourists to the state.”
The Taj Aguada Plateau, renowned for its breathtaking views and rich history, will continue to serve as a beacon of luxury and excellence. This supplemental lease paves the way for the development of state-of-the-art facilities and services, ensuring Goa remains a premier destination for travelers from around the globe. Additionally, the nearby Mopa Airport will be beneficial to the hotels as it will increase the tourist check ins.
