PANAJI: Promoting Goa as one of the "safest" destination for visitors, State Chief Minister Pramod Sawant today dismissed claims of declining tourism while maintaining that some social media influencers are attempting to "shift perceptions" about the coastal state.
Speaking during the Ideas of India Summit 2025 in Mumbai, Sawant assured that Goa remains one of the "safest and cleanest" and most attractive tourist destinations in India, encouraging people from all over the world to visit and enjoy the culture, history, and natural beauty of the state.
He said that the tourism in the State is growing by almost 21 per cent. He pointed out that while eight million visitors arrived in the State last year, this year, the figures have touched 10 million mark.
Responding to the questions pertaining to social media news with regards to downfall of tourism, the Chief Minister explained that efforts to decongest popular sites and beaches made it seem as if beaches were empty during New Year's celebrations. He said that this season, visitors preferred to explore "unexplored Goa".
"Tourism in Goa is still thriving," he said, highlighting the state's significant improvements over the past decade.
Sawant said that the double engine government has spent whopping Rs 40,000 crores on upgrading roads, bridges, and connectivity, including the new Mopa airport thus making Goa a preferred destination for tourists.
He also shared that 80% of the infrastructure required for the next 25 years in Goa is already in place, with a focus now on sustainable development and future-ready infrastructure.
In addition, Sawant spoke about the ongoing improvements in the state’s transport system, mentioning that 40% of the taxis in Goa are now app-based for convenience and safety. He urged tourists to be cautious and avoid falling victim to scams in the tourism sector.
