Stating that Independence Day is a day of great pride for all, Minister for Tourism, Information Technology, Shri Rohan Khaunte, unfurled the National Tri colour at Mapusa, greeting those gathered on the occasion of India’s Independence Day, today.
Present at the flag hoisting function was Calangute MLA, Shri Michael Lobo.
While speaking on the occasion, Shri Khaunte stating that initiative like the
‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ had set the tone for the patriotic mood for all said that Independance Day is an opportunity to dwell on those principles for which our freedom fighters fought for and we need to acknowledge the sacrifices of our freedom fighters and in turn contribute to our nation’s growth.
Shri Khaunte said that Goa was marching towards ‘Viksit Bharat’, which is a dream of honorable Prime Minister of India. He said that infrastructural development was the need of the hour and that the tourism sector in Goa has vastly improved in the recent years. He said that when it comes to Tourism sector, Goa is moving ahead at the same time safeguarding our culture and traditional arts and craft and festivals, focusing rightly on regenerative tourism.
Shri Khaunte said that Goa is increasing its footfalls by working on areas like eco and wellness, yoga and medical and hinterland tourism. This, he said was generating employment. He said the Government was laying stress on responsible and eco-friendly tourism initiatives to protect Goa’s natural beauty and resources for the future generations.
He said the Government is looking at Goa beyond beaches and quality over quantity. He said initiatives like the 1364 Goa tourism helpline number, Beach Vigil App, proposed Goa Tourism Promotion, Management and Regulation Bill, 2024, will improve tourism greatly.
He further informed how infrastructure for tourism facilities for the Old Goa Exposition was coming up and how Goa is benefitting from schemes such as the Swadesh Darshan Scheme.
Goa is already beginning to witness the benefits of these measures he said and urged everyone to work together for Goa’s betterment.
The Minister who also holds portfolio for Information Technology said that the Government was working on improving connectivity in rural areas with erection of towers and setting up wifi networks which would give an impetus to Goa’s tourism.
On the occasion, meritorious individuals from different fields were felicitated.
Present were Additional Collector III, Shri Rohit Kadam, Deputy collectors Shri Kabir Shirgaonkar and Shri Pandurang Gad, freedom fighters, students and teachers, Government officials among others.
