Panaji: The Goa Tourism Board meeting, chaired by CM Dr. Pramod Sawant on Tuesday, stressed the importance of ease of doing business for the tourism industry in the state. The 5th Board meeting was held at Porvorim, near here, with participation from state tourism minister Rohan Khaunte and other stakeholders.
Talking to reporters, Khaunte said that the Goa Tourism Board is the only tourism board in the country with 50 percent representation from the government and an equal percentage from the industry. He said that during the meeting, the Chief Minister gave certain directions in terms of ease of doing business and other matters. “The stakeholders have also put forth their issues before the board,” he said.
The tourism department had held a meeting with the stakeholders on Monday. Khaunte said this is a follow-up of the stakeholders’ meeting held yesterday. “Wherever government departments have to intervene, it will be done. Tourism is one department, but the tourism industry is a collective responsibility,” he said.
He mentioned concerns like stray cattle on the beaches and dogs on the seashore, which are the responsibilities of different departments. The minister said that the state Chief Secretary has been tasked with making a presentation on the tourism industry, after which action will be initiated based on the suggestions in the report.
He added that after the CS’ report, there will be a clear-cut plan for the tourism department.
