Goa Shack Operators Thank Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte for Timely Grant of Licences Ahead of Tourist Season
Timely approvals provide operators with greater certainty and enable shacks to be ready ahead tourist arrival.
Panaji, September 11, 2026: Goa’s shack operators have welcomed the timely grant of licences and permissions by the Department of Tourism, enabling them to complete preparations well ahead of the upcoming tourist season and ensuring that Goa’s iconic beach shacks are ready to receive visitors.
The operators acknowledged the efforts of Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte and Goa Government in facilitating an early licensing and registration process, which they said has provided them with greater clarity and certainty, allowing them to prepare their shacks well in advance and be ready to welcome tourists to Goa.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte said that shack operators are an integral part of Goa’s tourism identity and play an important role as ambassadors of the State’s distinctive coastal culture.
“Shack operators, who are our tourism ambassadors showcase Goa’s colourful beachside identity to visitors from across India and the world. Their contribution to tourism is extremely important, and the Government has consistently worked to support them,” Shri Khaunte said.
He noted that over the last two years, efforts have been made to ensure that shack licences are renewed well in advance, enabling operators to complete preparations before the arrival of tourists. “We have ensured that their licences are renewed in advance and that by mid-September, they are ready to welcome tourists. This is important because Goa must be prepared to receive visitors, particularly during the peak holiday periods,” he said.
The Minister further highlighted the importance of providing continuity and support to traditional shack operators, many of whom have been associated with the trade for several years and rely on it as their primary livelihood.
He added that Goan food and local preparations served at shacks, including traditional favourites such as fish curry rice, mackerel and other fresh local delicacies, form an important part of the experience offered to domestic and international visitors.
Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik said the Department remains committed to ensuring that shack operators have sufficient time to prepare for the season and that the licensing process is completed in a timely manner.
“The early grant of licences gives our shack operators the confidence and certainty they need to prepare their establishments well in advance. Our aim is to ensure that the shacks are operational and ready to welcome tourists as the season begins. These traditional establishments are an important part of Goa’s tourism offering, and we will continue to work closely with the operators to facilitate a smooth and successful season,” Shri Naik said.
The timely process is aimed at ensuring that the tourism ecosystem is prepared well ahead of the season.
The shack operators welcomed the Government’s efforts, stating that early permissions enable them to plan their operations, complete preparations on time and focus on providing visitors with the authentic Goan hospitality and coastal experience that shacks have come to represent.
