TTAG pushes for Tier II, III Indian states for tourism
PANAJI
As State officials including the Tourism Department jet off to numerous international travel marts, the stakeholders have called for a rethink urging the government to limit participation, arguing these events have failed to bring meaningful tourist footfall to the coastal State.
In a budget proposal to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) has recommended the government restrict its participation to World Travel Mart (WTM) London and ITB Berlin every alternate year while attending Moscow International Travel and Tourism Exhibition (MITT) Russia, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) Dubai, and ITB Asia annually.
The industry body has also pushed for a structured approach, demanding that participation be confirmed six months in advance.
Sources told The Goan that officials have embarked on a spree of international trips for promoting the State but with little to show for it.
“None of these marts are actually serving their purpose. While Goa’s presence is required at select international venues, what’s missing is the critical follow-up. We have participated in several high-profile events yet the influx of international tourists from quite a few countries remains negligible,” the source stated.
Meanwhile, Goa Tourism has confirmed its participation in MITT from March 18-20, fresh off its recent appearance at ITB Berlin earlier this month.
“Without a coherent strategy, such participation may remain a wasted effort. The international market has to be revived,” the source added.
With international arrivals dwindling, Goa’s tourism industry is increasingly relying on domestic tourists to sustain itself. TTAG has further proposed a shift in focus to Tier II and Tier III Indian cities that have direct connectivity with Goa. It has also identified key domestic travel marts – OTM Mumbai, SATTE Delhi, GITM Jaipur, TTF Kolkata and TTF Ahmedabad -- as crucial platforms for engagement.
Furthermore, the association has recommended that international road shows be restricted to CIS countries, Eastern Europe and the Middle East, where there is tangible potential for inbound tourism.
To enhance Goa’s appeal as a wedding and event destination, TTAG also sought a reduction in VAT on liquor – specifically a 10 per cent cut on beer, wine, and locally distilled spirits – to bring pricing in line with Mumbai.
“At present, many guests hosting weddings and conferences in Goa are procuring high-end liquor from other states due to cost differences, leading to revenue losses for the State,” the proposal stated.
TTAG has also sought the urgent need for a world-class convention centre and event venue in Goa. It has urged the State to align with the Union Budget 2025, which has earmarked Rs 20,000 crore for developing 50 destinations.
The association advocated for stringent sustainability measures in event management, including a ban on flex plastics and thermocol usage, clarifying that states promoting eco-friendly initiatives will attract environmentally conscious event planners and tourists.
