Call for protection of local businesses
MAPUSA
In a resolute stand, the villagers of Calangute unanimously rejected the “draconian” Goa Tourism Promotion Management Bill, 2023, during a gram sabha held on Sunday.
The community resolved that the bill should be objected to in its current form at the introduction reading stage in the Goa Legislative Assembly.
Local residents expressed concerns that the bill appears to favour corporate interests at the expense of local entrepreneurs and the unique character of Goa’s tourism.
Former panchayat member, Clotildes Braganca who proposed the resolution, stated, “The bill’s punitive measures and stringent regulations could stifle innovation and entrepreneurship within the cottage industry. Instead of nurturing local talent and creativity, these provisions threaten to impose unnecessary burdens and restrictions that could ultimately lead to the decline of small businesses.”
The resolution highlighted the significant contribution of cottage industries to Goa’s tourism sector, emphasizing that these small-scale businesses not only preserve Goa’s cultural heritage but also provide sustainable livelihoods to numerous local families.
“This bill is certainly not in the interest of the local businesses but to promote big time entrepreneurs. Secondly, it was not placed for public awareness and consultations through the local authority for people to understand the changes in tourism trade,” said Premanand Diukar, a resident of Calangute.
The timing and manner of the bill’s introduction were also scrutinised.
Villagers argued that any legislation affecting Goa’s tourism industry should undergo thorough and inclusive deliberation to ensure that the voices of all stakeholders, particularly the local tourism industry, are heard and respected.
“It is crucial that community-based decision-making is prioritized over profit-driven strategies that may not align with the long-term interests of Goans,” a local emphasised.
In another significant decision, the villagers proposed that multi-residential projects, rent-a-back apartments, and corporate hotels without designated parking spaces should not have their trade licenses renewed for tourism activities.
This measure aims to mitigate the current parking nuisance affecting public roads, which poses safety hazards, obstructs traffic flow, and inconveniences residents and businesses.
“The Calangute panchayat has been issuing no objection certificates (NOCs) to the Tourism Department for granting licenses to operate hotels and corporate establishments without due consideration of adequate parking facilities,” a local resident pointed out.
It was also noted that parking spaces approved by the Town and Country Planning (TCP) department are often diverted for other commercial uses such as restaurants and swimming pools.
Additionally, the villagers suggested the removal of all signage and advertisement boards erected by the panchayat at cross junctions and in front of Calangute Church by private entrepreneurs, promoters, and corporates.
They also called for the removal of all advertisement publication boards at restaurants and hotels that are not in Marathi, Konkani, or English.
The collective voice of Calangute villagers underscores the need for tourism policies that reflect community values, traditions, and aspirations while promoting sustainable development and preserving the unique cultural heritage of Goa.
