PANAJI
The Goa government has earmarked Rs 440.98 crore for the tourism sector in the 2025-26 Budget as it has already announced plans to attract high-spending tourists while ensuring that budget travellers and local visitors can continue to enjoy the State's unique charm. Sustainable tourism will be a key focus in this effort.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced 11 new initiatives including wayside amenities, online taxi services, a “plug & play” model, cruise tourism enhancement, a new jetty terminal and mini-convention center in Panaji, aero-tourism, an oceanarium, caravan parks, Porvorim town square, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj digital museum and a program for digital nomads.
Sawant said the tourism industry would be transformed to attract high-value international travellers, positioning Goa as a premier global destination.
"By promoting sustainability and responsible tourism, Goa will maximize its benefits. To achieve this, we will focus on self-reliance in the tourism sector through strategic investments and expansion,” he said.
The Budget also proposes introducing a Tourism Ambassador Program to train and skill individuals in tourism-related services.
With an emphasis on promoting “Goa Beyond Beaches,” the government has chalked out plans to enhance pilgrimage sites, temples and heritage locations to boost spiritual tourism.
The government has also decided to allocate Rs 10 crore under the Central Sector Scheme (CSS) for tourism-related projects in hinterland villages – another of several moves to promote Goa Beyond Beaches.
To support tourism-related infrastructure, a single-window mechanism will be introduced to streamline approvals for electricity, water and sewerage connections was another announcement by the CM.
