NT Reporter
Panaji
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant announced the setting up of a state-of-the-art hospitality skilling centre on Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) basis at Aguada plateau at Sinquerim by partnering with a leading industry player. Sawant announced an allocation of Rs 385 crore for the tourism sector. Goa reported 1.08 crore tourist arrivals in 2025, with an increase of 10.66 crore increase in international tourist arrivals.
Sawant also said that the state government will seek Rs 500 crore from the central government to implement a destination management scheme that will focus on developing integrated and sustainable tourism experiences across Goa.
He also announced implementation of Inbound Tour Operators Incentive Scheme 2026 with a provision of Rs 2 crore to revive and encourage charter flight operations and boost international tourist inflow.
Sawant said in a bid to position Goa as a leading wellness destination, Goa Wellness and Ayurveda Policy 2026 will be implemented with a structured regulatory and accreditation framework for wellness centres, Ayurveda and Yoga centres.
Sawant informed that 32 tourism-related projects will be completed through Goa Tourism development Corporation (GTDC) in during financial year 2026-27, in addition to 15 new projects. An allocation of Rs 104 crore has been earmarked for the same.
He also announced that the state government will make a formal request to the Centre to establish the proposed National Institute of Hospitality in Goa.
Sawant also announced plans to implement the 12-week hybrid training programme for 10,000 tourist guides at 20 iconic Indian sites which is being developed by the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) as part of the 2026-27 Union Budget.
