Socorro, 21st June 2025 – The Department of Tourism and Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) celebrated the 11th International Yoga Day with great enthusiasm at the Socorro Panchayat Hall, where over 150 participants gathered in a collective embrace of wellness, mindfulness, and community harmony. The celebration highlighted Goa’s growing emphasis on integrating yoga and holistic health into its tourism narrative.
The event was graced by the presence of Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, who emphasized the significance of yoga in promoting holistic health and positioning Goa as a wellness destination. Director of Tourism Kedar Naik, Managing Director of GTDC Kuldeep Arolkar, Socorro Sarpanch Soniya Pednekar, Penha de Franca Sarpanch Swapnil Chodankar, and Zilla Panchayat Member Kavita Gupesh Naik were also in attendance, along with members of the Socorro Panchayat and officials from the Department of Tourism and GTDC. The inaugural function was compered by Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager (Marketing), GTDC.
Speaking on the occasion, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte said,
“Yoga aligns with the core values of Goa’s Regenerative Tourism model — restoring balance, enhancing well-being, and empowering communities. Through initiatives like this, we’re not only celebrating India’s rich heritage but also encouraging both locals and visitors to embrace holistic living in Goa’s serene natural surroundings.”
Director of Tourism Kedar Naik added,
“Yoga Day is a reminder that wellness and tourism can go hand in hand. Goa is uniquely positioned to offer mindful, rejuvenating experiences, and we are actively working to create avenues that support year-round wellness-based tourism rooted in local culture and sustainability.”
The event featured a guided yoga session conducted by Tulsidas Mangueshkar, a Yoga Instructor and Evaluator certified by the Ministry of AYUSH, and Pooja Tulsidas Mangueshkar, a certified yoga teacher. The session drew enthusiastic participation from diverse age groups and communities. Attendees were encouraged to adopt yoga as a daily practice to enhance physical vitality, mental clarity, and emotional balance.
As part of its broader vision, Goa is actively promoting wellness and spiritual tourism. The State is embracing a slower, more conscious form of travel that nurtures both people and the planet. Initiatives such as the celebration of International Yoga Day are a reflection of Goa’s aspiration to be India’s premier wellness destination.
The Department of Tourism, in collaboration with local panchayats and stakeholders, continues to promote wellness-based experiences across Goa, reinforcing the State’s commitment to building a healthier society and fostering mindful, sustainable tourism practices.
