Govt will come out with eco-tourism policy

Porvorim: Tourism minister Rohan Khaunte on Tuesday said that state govt will come out with an eco-tourism policy and is studying internationally recognised ecotourism models and global best practices to adapt them to Goa’s ecological and socio-cultural context. The aim is to position Goa as one of India’s leading eco-tourism destinations.

Khaunte said all 40 MLAs and stakeholders will be invited to contribute to the policy. “When the eco-tourism policy is ready, we will invite MLAs to share their views,” he said.

He added that advisories are being circulated through various social and marketing platforms to create awareness among tourists and locals about the do’s and don’ts in eco-sensitive areas and the need to protect the environment.

Curtorim MLA Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco asked which areas have been identified for eco-tourism and whether any study was conducted. He cautioned that eco-tourism projects could damage natural habitats if new structures are built. “In the name of eco-tourism, we should not damage the environment,” he said, seeking assurance that fragile areas will be protected.

Leader of opposition Yuri Alemao asked when govt plans to release the policy and whether limits will be fixed on the number of tourists, vehicles, and commercial activities allowed in eco-sensitive areas. He also urged govt to conduct an audit and introduce legal safeguards to prevent overcrowding.

Khaunte said that whenever govt introduces a policy, the opposition often protests against it. He added that Goa has over 200 homestays, many run by women, who have become “the best tourist ambassadors” for the state.

The minister said eco-tourism is being promoted to generate local employment and encourage rural tourism without causing overtourism. Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas stressed the need for scientific mapping of tourism sites.