The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) Goa Regional Office organised a crucial Regional Advisory Committee Meeting today, focusing on the promotion of Agri Eco Tourism / Rural Tourism in Goa. The meeting was chaired by Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director & Managing Director GTDC, Department of Tourism, Government of Goa and brought together key stakeholders from various sectors to discuss actionable strategies for enhancing rural tourism in the state, stated a press release.
Other attendees included Sandeep Dharkar, GM/OIC NABARD Goa RO; Dr. Parveen Kumar, Director of ICAR-CCARI; Orlando Rodrigues, Chairman of the Agriculture Committee at the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI); along with representatives from State Level Bankers’ Committee (SLBC), Goa Council of Science and Technology, Department of Tourism, Department of Cooperation, Government of Goa, Goa State Co-operative Bank (Goa StCB) and Vanarai NGO.
During the meeting, Sandeep Dharkar highlighted NABARD’s initiative in promoting the Gram Vihar scheme to enhance rural hinterland tourism. He articulated the importance of developing pilot models and mobilising communities to actively participate in tourism initiatives, ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach the grassroots level.
Dr. Parveen Kumar, Director, ICAR-CCARI in his address mentioned that ICAR-CCARI has developed a model for promotion of Agro-Eco Tourism. He further underlined the importance of preservation of local bio diversity and adoption of eco-friendly approach for promotion of rural tourism models in Goa.
In his keynote address, Anchipaka, IAS, Director of Tourism & Managing Director GTDC, Govt. of Goa emphasized the various initiatives being undertaken by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, to promote hinterland tourism. He stressed the importance of regenerative tourism, ensuring that tourism development not only preserves but enhances the local environment and culture.
Anchipaka also highlighted the necessity for coordinated efforts doe convergence among all departments, stating, “To promote Goa beyond its beaches, we must work collectively to highlight our cultural and hinterland tourism offerings. This holistic approach will attract diverse travelers seeking authentic local experiences”.
Key discussions included strategies to:
•Enhance Community Mobilization: Strengthening the role of local communities in tourism activities to ensure their active involvement and benefit.
•Promote Diverse Tourism Offerings: Fostering a shift in perception about Goa as a destination rich in culture, heritage, and nature beyond its beach tourism.
•Collaborate Across Sectors: Encouraging partnerships among government bodies, local businesses, and NGOs to develop effective promotional strategies.
•Develop Infrastructure: Identifying and addressing infrastructure needs to support the growth of rural tourism.
•Implement Sustainable Practices: Ensuring that all tourism initiatives are environmentally sustainable and culturally respectful.
•Enhancing Farmers’ Income through sustainable livelihood: Will ensure sustainable income to farmers.
The meeting concluded with a commitment for ongoing collaboration and follow-up meetings to monitor progress in the promotion of rural tourism, aiming to position Goa as a leading destination for cultural and hinterland experiences as well.
