Collaborative Push for Sustainable Tourism: Goa to Spotlight Forests, Waterfalls, and Hinterland
Panaji, 9th June 2025 – In a significant step towards expanding Goa’s tourism offerings beyond its iconic coastline, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, convened a meeting with the Goa Forest Development Corporation (GFDC), to explore collaborative avenues for promoting hinterland, eco, wellness, and adventure tourism under the state’s vision of Goa Beyond Beaches. The meeting was led by Hon’ble Minister Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte and in the presence of Director Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik; Managing Director, GTDC, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar; GFDC Chairperson, Dr. Divya Rane; GFDC Managing Director, Nandkumar Parab; GFDC General Manager, Shri Amar Heblekar and OSD to Tourism Minister, Shri Shawn Mendes
Recognising the need for a more integrated and sustainable approach to tourism development, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte expressed the importance of working in collaboration across departments to tap into Goa’s diverse natural and cultural assets. “If the Tourism Department and the Forest Department work in unison, a tremendous opportunity lies ahead for creating high-end, sustainable tourism experiences. This collaboration can serve as a blueprint for eco-tourism and nature-based experiences that benefit both locals and visitors,” the Minister stated.
The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to diversifying the tourism landscape by promoting nature, wellness, adventure, and cultural experiences nestled in Goa’s hinterland. “We must now turn our focus inward to our waterfalls, wildlife sanctuaries, forest heritage, and eco-trails. Together, we can craft an entirely new narrative for Goa that is inclusive, regenerative, and future-facing,” remarked GFDC Chairperson, Dr. Divya Rane.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to hold further deliberations in coordination with the Hon’ble Forest Minister and the Forest Department to translate this shared vision into actionable outcomes.
