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The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, has entered into a partnership with MakeMyTrip, marking a significant milestone in public-private collaboration aimed at revolutionising tourism in the region. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between both the parties to launch an initiative to elevate Goa’s tourism beyond its famed beaches and explore its diverse cultural and culinary offerings.
As the pioneer of Regenerative Tourism in India, Goa sets the stage for this innovative venture. The MoU delineates a series of initiatives designed to unveil Goa’s hidden treasures, celebrate its rich heritage, and promote sustainable tourism practices. Rohan Khaunte, Minister of Tourism, IT, E&C, and Printing and Stationery, Government of Goa, articulated the vision behind this collaboration, underscoring the government’s dedication to rejuvenating the tourism sector.
During the signing ceremony, Minister Khaunte expressed, “Our vision of Goa Beyond Beaches aims to showcase the state’s cultural richness, expand tourism to its hinterlands, and ensure sustainable practices for future generations. Our partnership with MakeMyTrip will unveil Goa’s essence, ensuring equitable economic benefits across the state.”
MakeMyTrip’s involvement is pivotal, leveraging its digital expertise to broaden the reach of Goa’s tourism offerings. Through curated initiatives like the Cultural Map of Goa, the travel giant aims to spotlight the state’s inland heritage and culinary delights, complementing its coastal attractions.
Rajesh Magow, Co-founder and Group CEO, MakeMyTrip, conveyed his enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to collaborate with the Government of Goa to showcase the unexplored facets of the state and foster a sustainable tourism ecosystem.”
Sanvordem MLA Ganesh Gaonkar on Thursday said that all temples in his constituency will be developed for tourism over the next three years. Gaonkar, who also heads the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), said that while developing the Tambdi Surla-Dudhsagar tourism circuit was in the pipeline, a tourism-related project at Mirabag, Sanvordem, has also been proposed.
The partnership extends beyond promotion, emphasising sustainable tourism aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). MakeMyTrip plans to repurpose over 500,000 single-use plastic bottles for an environmental art installation, symbolising the importance of sustainability in tourism.Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director Tourism & MD, GTDC Goa Administration, highlighted Goa’s focus on spiritual and wellness tourism, exemplified by the Ekadasha Teertha campaign, aimed at connecting eleven places of worship to form a transformative travel circuit.
In the coming years, the collaboration aims to promote environmental restoration, cultural preservation, and community empowerment through spirituality, indigeneity, civilisational nationalism, and conscious tourism.
Minister Khaunte concluded by affirming that the MoU signifies a long-term commitment to Goa’s heritage, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
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