Goa Tourism Minister Urges Goans to Support Positive Tourism Narrative; Post-Covid Tourism Recovery Outpaces other states by 50%
Porvorim, 24th July 2025: Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte has called on Goans to stand united in setting a positive and proud narrative about the revival of tourism in the state. Emphasizing the resilience of Goa’s tourism sector post-Covid, the minister stated that Goa has recovered 50% better than other states, a key competitor in the tourism space.
“As proud Goans, it’s important that we speak positively about the arrival and growth of tourism here,” said Khaunte. “Despite the challenges of the pandemic, our state has bounced back with strength and performed significantly better than many other tourist destinations in India.”
Khaunte highlighted that the Department of Tourism, in collaboration with the central government, has launched several initiatives to boost tourism and attract a wider range of visitors. These include infrastructure upgrades, digital promotion campaigns, and support for local tourism-based entrepreneurs.
The minister also took a sharp dig at paid social media influencers who, he alleged, were spreading false and negative narratives about Goa’s tourism health. “Many of these so-called influencers are sitting outside the state, getting paid to create noise that doesn’t reflect the reality on the ground,” Khaunte said. “When we presented the official data, none of them had a response.”
Calling for a united front, Khaunte urged citizens, local businesses, and stakeholders to celebrate Goa’s successes and contribute to a future-focused, optimistic image of the state. “Tourism is not just about numbers, it’s about pride in who we are and what we have to offer the world,” he said.
