‘Preserve natural beauty of Goa to safeguard tourism’

Panaji: Given that the state’s natural beauty, culture, and environment remain the main draw for tourists visiting Goa, govt needs to look at the big picture and ensure that these are protected, said the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG). The TTAG, in its budget recommendations, also said that govt needs to ensure safety, security, cleanliness, and waste management in the state for the growth of the tourism sector.

TTAG president Jack Sukhija also said that state govt needs to ensure technology and transparency in transport, particularly taxi fares.

From the taxation perspective, TTAG wants VAT to be reduced to 10% on beer and wine, as well as for liquor distilled in Goa.

“This will be in line with Mumbai and will facilitate procurement and consumption from the local market. Presently, a lot of guests for weddings and conferences are bringing expensive liquor from other states where it is cheaper. This is resulting in a loss for the state exchequer,” said Sukhija.

TTAG further said that the department’s participation in international trade fairs should be restricted to WTM London, ITB Berlin, BTL Portugal, and FITUR Spain once every two years. Promotion at MITT Russia, ATM Dubai, and ITB Asia can be done annually too.

Sukhija said that international roadshows should be restricted to CIS countries, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. TTAG said participation in domestic travel expos and roadshows should be well planned.