Goa witnessed a sudden surge in tourist footfall during the recently concluded tourist season, surpassing the one-crore milestone. Addressing concerns about declining footfall, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte emphasised that international arrivals have soared by 150 per cent compared to pre-COVID-19 levels.

Acknowledging competitive pressures from other states and international destinations, Khaunte underscored Goa's resilience beyond the traditional tourist season, highlighting sustained visitor interest even during the monsoon months. He added that during the monsoon season, Goa usually sees an impressive 80 per cent hotel occupancy, reflecting a growing realisation that the state offers more than just beaches.

Khaunte asserted that they have exceeded 10 million visitors, dispelling notions of a tourist downturn, marking an increase from previous years. Looking forward, Khaunte outlined strategic initiatives to diversify Goa's tourism appeal and engage new markets, emphasising collaborative efforts with stakeholders to implement a comprehensive tourism vision.

Amidst competitive challenges, including those posed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Dekho Apna Desh' initiative, Khaunte stressed the need to maintain affordability, particularly during peak seasons like December. He added that discussions with airlines and the hospitality sector are being initiated to stabilise tariffs during peak tourist periods. Reflecting on the broader impact of tourism beyond beaches, Khaunte highlighted Goa's monsoon attractions, such as waterfalls, verdant villages, and rural tourism, which contribute significantly to the local economy.